The 2025 Volkswagen Taos continues to deliver on its promise of European refinement, family-friendly practicality, and sharp styling in the highly competitive subcompact SUV market. While it doesn’t quite match the driving excitement of some rivals, it excels in areas that matter most to buyers: space, efficiency, and technology.
Key Highlights of the 2025 Volkswagen Taos
- Turbocharged Performance with Upgraded Transmission:
The Taos is powered by an improved 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque—a bump of 16 hp over last year. Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models now come with a traditional eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previously clunky dual-clutch gearbox. The result? Smoother, more predictable performance and impressive highway manners. - Standout Cabin Space and Cargo Capacity:
Few SUVs in this class can match the Taos’ spacious back seat and generous cargo area. Rear passengers enjoy more room than you’d expect in a subcompact crossover, and cargo space maxes out at 65.9 cubic feet (FWD models) when the seats are folded. Only the much pricier Ford Bronco Sport edges it out in cargo capacity. - Enhanced Tech and Safety Across the Lineup:
Every Taos now comes standard with Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive safety suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard across all trims, paired with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity.
Trim Breakdown: Features and Pricing
- S ($26,420): The entry-level Taos comes well-equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, heated steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, and an 8-inch infotainment screen. Safety tech like forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist is also standard.
- SE ($29,320): Adds 18-inch wheels, power driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power liftgate. The SE Black variant ($31,570) includes a black roof, wheels, and sporty exterior accents.
- SEL ($36,120): Top-of-the-line luxury with leather upholstery, premium audio system, integrated navigation, and advanced safety tech like parking sensors and a digital cockpit display.
Driving Experience: Balanced but Not Thrilling
While the Taos delivers respectable power and a smooth ride, numb steering remains its Achilles’ heel. It lacks the sporty responsiveness found in competitors like the Kia Seltos Turbo or even Volkswagen’s own Golf GTI. However, the refined suspension and improved sound insulation make it an excellent choice for long highway drives.
Fuel Economy: Practical Efficiency
Fuel economy ratings are expected to remain consistent with the outgoing model:
- 28 MPG city / 36 MPG highway (Front-Wheel Drive)
- 25 MPG city / 32 MPG highway (All-Wheel Drive)
These numbers place the Taos near the top of its class for efficiency, outperforming models like the Honda HR-V and Chevrolet Trax.
Interior: Family-Friendly and Practical
The Taos offers a spacious rear seat and impressive cargo versatility. The cabin design leans toward simplicity, with a clean layout and high-quality materials. However, the touch-sensitive climate controls in higher trims may frustrate some drivers. Overall, it remains a practical and comfortable space for both drivers and passengers.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every Taos features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging. Higher trims add navigation and a premium audio system. Thankfully, the Taos avoids Volkswagen’s overly complex infotainment interfaces seen in other recent models like the ID.4.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The IQ.Drive suite is now standard across all trims, offering:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane-Centering
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Lane-Keeping Assist
These features ensure that even the base trim is equipped with advanced safety technology.
Volkswagen Taos vs. The Competition
- Kia Seltos: Offers a turbocharged engine and slightly larger infotainment screen but less cargo space.
- Honda HR-V: Reliable but underpowered and less engaging to drive.
- Chevrolet Trax: Cheaper but lacks all-wheel drive and refinement.
- Ford Bronco Sport: More rugged but significantly pricier.
Final Verdict
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos offers a compelling mix of spacious practicality, upscale design, and everyday usability. While it doesn’t lead in driving excitement or tech innovation, it excels as a well-rounded choice for small families and budget-conscious buyers who refuse to compromise on space and refinement.
Get the Best Deal on the 2025 Volkswagen Taos
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