Volkswagen Taos

Overview: Is the Volkswagen Taos a Good Subcompact SUV?

The Volkswagen Taos, introduced for the 2022 model year, is a subcompact SUV that slots below the larger Tiguan in VW's lineup. Designed to compete with popular rivals like the Toyota Corolla Cross, Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek, and Kia Seltos, the Taos brings together practicality, efficiency, and value. With its spacious interior, advanced technology features, and engaging driving dynamics, the Taos appeals to buyers seeking a well-rounded small SUV with a European flair.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Volkswagen Taos cars for sale.

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Related: The Volkswagen Taos Years To Avoid

Key Features

The Volkswagen Taos offers:

• Subcompact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• Front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive
• Turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine
• 8-speed automatic or 7-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission

Trims

The Volkswagen Taos comes in three trims: S, SE, and SEL. The base S trim has LED headlights, a digital instrument cluster, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The SE trim adds features like a larger 8-inch touchscreen, keyless entry with push-button start, and wireless charging. The range-topping SEL trim offers premium features such as all-wheel drive (2023 and later), leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and the IQ.DRIVE suite of advanced driver assistance technologies. The IQ.Drive system became standard across all trims starting with the 2024 model year.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Volkswagen Taos interior is well-crafted and maximizes space and comfort. The front row is generously spaced, while the rear seats provide ample legroom for a subcompact SUV. The Taos's MIB infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Every VW Taos has automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The IQ.DRIVE package adds adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Travel Assist, which combines these features for semi-automated driving in certain conditions. There’s up to 27.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, or a maximum of 65.9 cubic feet with the back seats folded.

Review: Volkswagen Taos vs. Volkswagen Tiguan: We Break Down The Differences

How It Drives

Under the hood, the Volkswagen Taos is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel-drive models are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while 4Motion all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants receive a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch unit. The Taos's powertrain provides peppy acceleration and smooth shifts, making it well-suited for city driving and highway cruising alike. A zero-to-60 mph time of 7.4 seconds is moderately quick. On the road, the VW Taos offers a balance of comfort and agility. The suspension absorbs road imperfections well, providing a composed ride, while the precise steering and well-controlled body motions make the Taos enjoyable to drive on winding roads. Front-wheel drive suits most driving situations, but AWD adds extra confidence when needed.

Safety

The Volkswagen Taos has received a four-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the second-highest possible score.

Reviews

Volkswagen Taos reviews on Kelley Blue Book are mediocre, with an average rating of 3.6 out of 5. Consumers are critical of this VW's reliability, quality, and value. Scores are better for comfort and styling.

Learn More: How Long Do Volkswagen Taoses Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

FAQs

Is the VW Taos bigger than the VW Tiguan?

No, the Volkswagen Taos is smaller than the Tiguan. The Taos is classified as a subcompact SUV, while the Tiguan is a compact SUV. The Tiguan offers more interior space, cargo capacity, and available third-row seating, while the Taos prioritizes maneuverability and efficiency in a smaller footprint.

Is the VW Taos compact or subcompact?

The Volkswagen Taos is classified as a subcompact SUV. It competes in the same segment as vehicles like the Toyota Corolla Cross, Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek, and Kia Seltos, all considered subcompact SUVs. The Taos's smaller size makes it well-suited for urban environments and tight parking spaces.

Is the VW Taos fuel efficient?

Yes, the Volkswagen Taos is a fuel-efficient subcompact SUV. The front-wheel-drive model achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the 4Motion all-wheel-drive variant returns 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive within the subcompact SUV segment.

What is the Volkswagen Taos price?

A new VW Taos starts at nearly $24,000 for the base S trim, but a fully equipped SEL costs another $10,000. Based on CoPilot marketplace information, a used Volkswagen Taos sells for $16,000 to $35,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.

Is the Volkswagen Taos FWD or AWD?

The Volkswagen Taos is available with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Front-wheel drive is standard on all trim levels, while Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is optional. AWD became standard on the Taos SEL starting with the 2023 model year.

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