A steering column for a motor vehicle, which can be adjusted at least in the longitudinal direction thereof, comprises a carrying unit fixed to the chassis, an adjusting unit that rotatably supports the steering spindle, and a tensioning mechanism, in the open state of which the steering column can be adjusted and in the closed state of which the set position is fixed and which comprises at least one locking part (16), which in the closed state of the tensioning mechanism is tensioned with an engagement part, wherein the adjusting unit is connected to the engagement part such that it is held non-displaceably in the longitudinal direction of the steering column relative to the engagement part during normal operation, and can be displaced in the longitudinal direction of the steering column relative to the engagement part while absorbing energy in the event of a crash. The engagement part interacts with at least one bending wire or strip, of which at least one section is carried along by the adjusting unit during the displacement of the adjusting unit relative to the engagement part, wherein the bending wire or strip deforms during the displacement of the adjusting unit relative to the engagement part.