Six Audi models earn top rating from US safety organization IIHS

IIHS evaluates vehicles in several crash test categories – including front and side impact, pedestrian safety, and the effectiveness of front crash prevention systems. Earning the TOP SAFETY PICK+ accolade requires top performance in all disciplines.

The award criteria became even more stringent in 2026. In 2025, vehicles needed only an acceptable rating in the particularly challenging moderate overlap front test to earn the TOP SAFETY PICK award, but now both TOP SAFETY PICK and TOP SAFETY PICK+ require a good rating. Since 2022, this test has also emphasized the safety of rear passengers.

For TOP SAFETY PICK+, the highest award, vehicles must also achieve a good rating in the pedestrian front crash prevention test and at least an acceptable rating in the updated vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention evaluation. In addition to a passenger car target, this evaluation also examines performance with a motorcycle target and a semitrailer.

Safety as standard

For the first time, front crash prevention systems must be standard under IIHS’ new criteria for 2026 – optional systems are not enough. As before, good ratings in the small overlap front and side tests are required for both awards, and all trims must come with acceptable- or good-rated headlights.

The top-rated models:

• Audi A5
• Audi Q5 SUV
• Audi Q5 Sportback
• Audi A6 Sportback e-tron
• Audi Q6 SUV e-tron
• Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron

About IIHS
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is an independent organization based in the US and financed by the insurance industry. It is one of the world’s most respected institutions for vehicle safety tests. TOP SAFETY PICK+ is IIHS’ highest safety rating. Further information on testing methods and criteria can be found at www.iihs.org.