Volkswagen Taos, By the Numbers

The Volkswagen Taos is a small SUV, a five-passenger model powered by a turbocharged engine. Introduced in 2022, the 2025 model features an updated exterior and added horsepower. Navigating the subcompact range, the Taos supplies a natural entryway to the VW brand. Read on and we will do a “by the numbers” takedown of this vehicle.

By the Numbers

1. Powertrain

1.5: The displacement in liters of the turbocharged four-cylinder engine. VW supplies one engine choice to motivate its smallest SUV.

158: Horsepower output.

184: Pound-feet of torque delivered.

8 & 7: Number of transmission speeds — 8-speed automatic for FWD, 7-speed DSG dual-clutch for AWD.

2. Efficiency

28/36/31: EPA city/highway/combined MPG ratings for front-wheel drive.

25/32/28: EPA city/highway/combined MPG ratings for all-wheel drive.

13.2: This is the gallon fuel tank capacity for the front-wheel-drive model. Choose the all-wheel drive 4Motion model and this one comes outfitted with a 14.5-gallon fuel tank. The maximum driving range is 409 miles.

3. Dimensions & Capacity

105.9: Wheelbase in inches.

175.8: Overall length in inches.

72.5: Width in inches.

64.4: Height in inches.

99.5: Cubic feet of total passenger volume.

27.9 / 65.9: Cargo volume (cubic feet) behind the second row / with the seats folded. The rear seats fold nearly completely flat, with a nominal rise toward the front. Still, there is sufficient room for extra luggage or to carry home those yard sale finds.

It should be noted that the 2025 Taos is marginally larger than the 2009 Tiguan, VW’s original small SUV. The Tiguan now occupies the compact range, slotting above the Taos and just below the Atlas.

4. Seating & Interior

5: Passenger seating capacity. As with most models in this class, the ideal capacity is four.

40.7 / 39.8: Front and rear headroom (inches).

40.1 / 37.9: Front and rear legroom (inches).

The Taos has one of the roomiest rear seats in the segment. Its legroom should prove adequate for the average-sized adult passenger.

5. Weights

3,175–3,420: Curb weight range in pounds, depending on drivetrain. Indeed, the 4Motion all-wheel drive system adds the bulk of the extra weight in this model.

6. Trims & Choices

3: Number of primary trims — S ($24,995), SE ($27,895), and SEL ($34,695). Add $1,425 for the delivery charge.

2: Drivetrain choices — FWD or AWD. Add $1,700 for all-wheel drive for the S and SE trims. This feature is included with the SEL.

7. Safety & Tech Numbers

6: Standard airbags for occupant protection. These include front, front side, and side curtain airbags.

8: Inches for available Digital Cockpit screen size (or up to 10.25 inches on higher trims).

6.5 / 8: Inches for infotainment touchscreen size, depending on trim.

8. Assembly & Origin

Puebla, Mexico: Manufacturing plant location. This facility also produces the Jetta sedan and the compact Tiguan crossover.

Driving Impressions

Volkswagen utilizes a peppy turbocharged four-cylinder engine to power the Taos. Displacing 1.5 liters, it is smaller than the typical 2.0-liter engines found in this class. Nevertheless, its bangs out sufficient horsepower and torque. Indeed, the Taos supplies robust mid-range grunt early on, with strong torque starting around 1,750 rpm and power building smoothly up to 5,500 rpm.

Our test SEL model featured the turbo engine paired with the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which routes power to all four wheels. Unlike Audi’s all-wheel drive system which is always at work, VW’s 4Motion kicks in only on demand. Yet, it is a Haldex multi-plate clutch at the rear arrangement we have long appreciated.

Ample Power

We found the Taos easily drivable with ample power at the ready. However, in our test model we did detect some turbo lag as the transmission would (sometimes) hold gears longer, thereby momentarily delaying power. It was a minor annoyance, but still noticeable. Overall, though, it had little impact on the driving experience.

The Taos is not a quiet vehicle. The engine is noisy and often makes its presence known under full throttle. We recently drove the competing Mazda CX-30 and found it much quieter.

Capable Handler

Where the Taos excels is how well it handles. It tracks true through curves and stays balanced with only minimal body roll. All-wheel-drive models gain a multi-link rear suspension which enhances turning stability and improves ride comfort. Though not as agile as the CX-30, it also does not feel floaty. Braking competence is good with fast stops supplied.

Volkswagen Taos Considerations

The VW Taos operates in a crowded segment. It is challenged by the Mazda and such vehicles as the Subaru Crosstrek, Honda HR-V, and the Chevrolet Trax. Other competitors include the Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, Buick Envista, and the Nissan Kicks.

From a build perspective, the best deal appears to be the Taos SE with front-wheel drive. This model brings in such safety features as an adaptive front-lighting system along with front and rear park distance control. Zoned climate control, upgraded seating materials, and wireless charging are also included. With this trim, your out-the-door price should remain below $30,000.

2025 Volkswagen Taos Specifications

See Also — We Drove the Updated Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

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