The compact SUV market is more competitive than ever, and the 2025 Volkswagen Taos continues to stand out as a smart, stylish, and efficient option. With a spacious interior, modern technology, and Volkswagen’s renowned engineering, the Taos offers incredible value for drivers looking for practicality without sacrificing comfort or performance.
What is the Volkswagen Taos?
The Volkswagen Taos is a subcompact SUV introduced by VW in 2022 to fill the gap beneath the Tiguan. Built for urban drivers and small families, it offers a comfortable ride, intuitive tech, and fuel efficiency all wrapped in a sleek, modern package.
For 2025, Volkswagen has made subtle updates to the Taos, improving interior features and tech integration, while retaining the turbocharged engine and signature European styling.
Engine, Performance, and MPG
Under the hood, the Volkswagen Taos 2025 is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with either an 8-speed automatic transmission (FWD models) or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (AWD models).
Performance Highlights:
- Smooth acceleration with responsive turbo performance
- Excellent fuel economy:
- FWD: Rated at 28 mpg for city driving and 36 mpg on highways
- AWD: 25 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- 4MOTION all-wheel drive is available for better traction and control
While it’s not built for aggressive off-roading, the Taos is agile, efficient, and perfect for commuting or weekend adventures.
Interior and Cargo Space
One of the strongest selling points of the VW Taos is its spacious and upscale interior. Despite its compact classification, the Taos offers impressive room for passengers and cargo.
Interior Features:
- Standard 6.5-inch touchscreen (upgradable to 8-inch)
- Volkswagen Digital Cockpit with a customizable 8-inch or 10.25-inch display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- You can opt for premium features like leather upholstery, front seats with heating and ventilation, and a wide panoramic sunroof
Cargo Space:
- 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats
- 65.9 cubic feet with rear seats folded
Whether you’re running errands or heading on a road trip, the Volkswagen Taos offers class-leading space and comfort.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Safety is a top priority for Volkswagen, and the 2025 Taos comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety features.
Standard Safety Features:
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
Available Upgrades:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping assist
- High beam assist
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos has not yet been fully rated by the NHTSA, but the previous model earned solid scores, and improvements in tech and design suggest a strong performance in upcoming crash tests.
Pricing and Trim Options
For 2025, the Taos comes in three distinct trim levels:
| Trim | Starting Price | Key Features |
| S | ~$25,000 | LED headlights, VW Digital Cockpit, 6.5” touchscreen |
| SE | ~$28,000 | 8” touchscreen, wireless charging, heated front seats |
| SEL | ~$33,000 | Leather seats, 10.25” cockpit display, navigation |
With competitive pricing and features, the Taos provides excellent value for budget-conscious buyers looking for a premium feel.
Volkswagen Taos vs Rivals
Where does the Taos stand when measured against top competitors like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and Hyundai Kona?
| Feature | VW Taos | Honda HR-V | Mazda CX-30 | Hyundai Kona |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 158 hp | 191 hp | 147 hp |
| Cargo Space | 27.9 cu ft | 24.4 cu ft | 20.2 cu ft | 19.2 cu ft |
| AWD Option | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| MPG (highway) | 36 | 32 | 31 | 35 |
| Starting Price | ~$25K | ~$25K | ~$26K | ~$24K |
Verdict: The Volkswagen Taos leads in cargo space and fuel efficiency, making it an excellent all-rounder in the compact SUV category.
Pros and Cons of the 2025 VW Taos
Pros:
- Spacious and practical interior
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Advanced tech and safety features
- Competitive pricing
- Stylish European design
Cons:
- Not as sporty as some rivals (e.g., Mazda CX-30)
- Some hard plastics in the lower trims
- Limited towing capacity (1,500 lbs)
Conclusion:
For those seeking a compact SUV that blends spaciousness, modern design, fuel efficiency, and advanced tech, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos stands out. It’s especially appealing for urban drivers, small families, and commuters who want versatility without breaking the bank.
