The VW Taos is making waves as a mini-SUV that cleverly combines the best bits of the Golf and Tiguan, earning itself a coveted spot on our 2024 Editors’ Choice list. Every model in the lineup is powered by a 158-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. While it won’t set any speed records, the Taos impresses with its smooth road manners and commendable fuel efficiency. It sports a stylish exterior and a practical interior that boasts two roomy rows of seats and an SUV-favorite upright seating position, making it a strong contender in the small crossover market. Despite its appealing starting price, be mindful that the Taos can push the budget above the $35,000 mark in its higher trims, nudging it into competition with larger SUVs, including VW’s own Tiguan.
What’s New for 2024?
The lineup welcomes the new SE Black trim, decked out with a sleek dark exterior, black wheels, and black trim highlights, contrasted by blue stitching inside. The 2024 update also brings VW’s IQ.Drive adaptive cruise control system with lane centering to the base S trim, enriches the SE with dual-zone automatic climate control, and refreshes the SEL with several cosmetic upgrades.
2024 Volkswagen Taos price
For 2024, the Volkswagen Taos is priced from $25,420 to $34,940, depending on the chosen trim and options:
- S: $25,420
- SE: $29,590
- SE Black: $29,985
- SEL: $34,940
Our recommendation leans towards the SE model for its blend of features and value. It’s well-equipped with 18-inch wheels, blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats, remote start, and wireless charging, providing a solid mid-level offering. For those considering the all-wheel drive option, an additional $1,450 not only enhances traction but also upgrades the rear suspension to a more refined independent setup, enhancing the driving experience further.
2024 Volkswagen Taos Engine
Under the hood of the VW Taos is a fresh turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a solid 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. When it comes to transmitting that power to the road, the Taos offers two distinct setups depending on the drive configuration. Front-wheel drive models are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission for smooth, efficient shifts, while all-wheel-drive versions ramp up the performance with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic that promises quick and responsive gear changes.
The difference between front-wheel and all-wheel drive extends beyond the transmission. Each setup is complemented by a unique rear suspension design. The front-drive Taos utilizes a torsion-beam rear suspension, focusing on simplicity and space efficiency. In contrast, the all-wheel-drive models benefit from a more advanced multilink rear suspension, enhancing the ride quality and handling capabilities.
The front-wheel-drive Taos edged out the all-wheel-drive version to 60 mph, but only by a slim margin of a tenth of a second. Regardless of the drivetrain, the Taos comes standard with a set of 17-inch wheels, though those looking for a bit more style or performance can opt for larger 18- or 19-inch wheels. This variety of options ensures that drivers can tailor the Taos to their preferences, balancing the vehicle’s practicality with a touch of personal flair.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The VW Taos stands out for its fuel efficiency, a crucial factor for many drivers. The front-wheel-drive variant of the Taos impresses with an EPA rating of 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Opting for the all-wheel-drive model, you’ll see a slight dip in efficiency, with ratings of 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. However, both models tend to outperform these estimates in real-world conditions.
Our testing further underscores the Taos’s efficiency, especially during highway driving. On a controlled 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, the front-wheel-drive Taos surpassed expectations, achieving an outstanding 40 mpg. Meanwhile, the 4Motion all-wheel-drive version also performed admirably, clocking in at 33 mpg. These results highlight the Taos’s ability to deliver excellent fuel economy, making it a compelling option for those looking to maximize their mileage on long drives or daily commutes.
2024 Volkswagen Taos Interior
The interior of the VW Taos keeps things understated yet stylish, adhering to the modern design language that characterizes VW’s lineup. Every model features a fully digital gauge cluster that adds a contemporary touch to the dashboard. The standard seating comes in a two-tone cloth upholstery that’s simple but effective. For those seeking a bit more luxury, there are options for leatherette and even genuine leather upholstery, elevating the cabin’s feel.
When it comes to customization and comfort, the Taos doesn’t hold back. The cabin can be outfitted with an array of desirable features, including customizable ambient lighting to set the mood, an eight-way power driver’s seat for optimal comfort, and dual-zone climate control to keep both front passengers happy. For those colder days, a heated steering wheel and heated front seats are available, and for warmer weather, ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof can make the drive more enjoyable.
Space-wise, the Taos is quite accommodating. It offers 37.9 inches of legroom in the rear seats, which is nearly as spacious as the larger two-row Tiguan, missing it by just 0.8 inches. Cargo capacity is generous as well, with 28 cubic feet of space available behind the rear seats. When you need more room for gear, folding the seats flat opens up to 66 cubic feet of space. This blend of comfort, convenience, and capacity makes the Taos an appealing choice for those needing a versatile and comfortable compact SUV.
Infotainment and Connectivity Features
The VW Taos comes equipped with a state-of-the-art infotainment system that keeps you connected and entertained throughout your journey.
- Standard Features: Every model boasts a 6.5-inch touchscreen that’s intuitive and easy to navigate.
- Optional Upgrades: For an enhanced experience, there’s an optional 8.0-inch touchscreen. Additional options include built-in navigation to guide you, an eight-speaker BeatsAudio system for premium sound quality, SiriusXM satellite radio for endless entertainment, and wireless smartphone charging to keep your devices powered up.
- Connectivity: A subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot is available, ensuring you and your passengers stay connected on the go.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Safety is paramount in the VW Taos, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies designed to protect you and your passengers.
- Collision Prevention: Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking work to prevent accidents before they happen.
- Awareness: Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert enhance your situational awareness, making every journey safer.
- Driving Assistance: Adaptive cruise control with lane-centering feature is also standard, providing comfort and convenience on longer drives.
- Safety Ratings: For detailed insights into the Taos’s safety performance, visit the NHTSA and IIHS websites.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Volkswagen ensures peace of mind with its warranty and maintenance offerings for the Taos.
- Warranty: The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles, and the powertrain warranty matches these terms, providing comprehensive coverage.
- Maintenance: Complimentary scheduled maintenance is included for two years or 20,000 miles, aligning with industry standards and ensuring your Taos remains in peak condition.
