The refreshed 2025 Volkswagen Taos steps confidently into the competitive subcompact SUV arena with updates that refine its formula of practicality, comfort, and understated German style. As VW’s smallest crossover, the Taos strikes a compelling balance between city-friendly size and family-ready versatility, offering a roomy cabin, advanced tech, and a turbocharged engine — all wrapped in a sharp, modern package.
Engine, Performance & Efficiency
Under the hood, every 2025 Taos houses a newly enhanced 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that now delivers 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. With this power bump, the Taos offers a lively response both around town and on the highway, relying on a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission for front-wheel-drive models and a conventional torque-converter automatic for all-wheel-drive (4MOTION) trims.
Key performance specs:
- Horsepower: 174 hp @ 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 184 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 7.0–7.1 seconds (est.)
- Top Speed: 125 mph (est.)
- Towing capacity: 937 lbs. maximum payload
Fuel efficiency remains a strong suit, with EPA estimates of 28–31 mpg combined, depending on the drivetrain, making the Taos one of the more economical picks in its segment.
Driving Experience
On the road, t2025 Volkswagen Taos feels substantial for its size, delivering a solid, composed ride reminiscent of larger German vehicles. The all-wheel-drive version features an independent rear suspension, which translates to a smoother and more planted feel on twisty roads or rougher pavement, while the FWD models get by with a simpler torsion-beam rear setup.
Steering is light yet precise, making the SUV easy to maneuver in tight urban environments. While the Taos won’t thrill enthusiasts the way the long-missed Golf hatchback did, it prioritizes comfort and stability, even at highway speeds. Interior noise is commendably low; wind and tire noise are well muted, enhancing the premium feel.
Interior, Cargo & Technology
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos impresses with a surprisingly spacious interior for its class, easily accommodating five adults. There’s generous rear seat legroom and up to 65.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the back seats folded—making the Taos as practical for errands as for weekend getaways.
Highlights include:
- Standard 8-inch floating touchscreen
- VW Digital Cockpit Pro digital instrument cluster
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Wireless device charging
- Climatronic touch-based controls
- Optional panoramic sunroof, heated/ventilated front seats, ambient lighting
- Upgraded interior materials and new color options, especially for upper trims
Fit and finish in the Taos is excellent for the segment, with a contemporary dash design and intuitive controls. The front seats offer plenty of support, and outward visibility is a plus.
Safety & Driver Assistance
For 2025, the Taos steps up its safety technology with an expanded suite of standard features:
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking (and pedestrian detection)
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- Lane-keeping assist & blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Front and rear parking sensors (available)
These tools, coupled with high crash-test scores from recent model years, give the Taos a reassuring edge for families or safety-focused buyers.
Trim Levels & Pricing
Buyers have four trims to choose from: S, SE, SE Black, and SEL. Each is well-equipped for the price, with even the base S boasting solid essentials. Estimated pricing starts at $26,420 for the S and tops out at $36,120 for the fully-loaded SEL 4MOTION AWD[1][3]:
| Trim | Drivetrain | Starting MSRP | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | FWD/AWD | $26,420 | 8″ screen, VW Digital Cockpit, IQ.DRIVE |
| SE | FWD/AWD | $29,320 | Upgraded audio, cloudtext upholstery, heated seats |
| SE Black | FWD/AWD | $31,570 | Black styling, advanced tech |
| SEL | AWD | $36,120 | Leather, ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof |
All models 2025 Volkswagen Taos come with a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty for added peace of mind.
Verdict
With its impressive space, refined ride, improved tech, and thorough safety suite, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos serves up one of the most well-rounded packages in the subcompact SUV world. While it may not be the quickest or the most exciting to drive, its blend of comfort, quality, and everyday usability make it a smart, German-engineered pick for buyers who value versatility over flash.