Whether you choose the base S or the upper-level SEL, every 2024 Taos features a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 158 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is optional.
The Taos also gets impressive fuel economy, with EPA estimates of 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway for the front-wheel drive model.
Powertrain
VW is a latecomer to the subcompact SUV market, but the Taos’ turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine offers plenty of power to keep up with traffic. Front-drive models use an eight-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel drive versions get a seven-speed dual-clutch system. The Taos feels agile and surefooted through turns, and the suspension delivers a comfortable ride with a taut yet controlled feel that will be familiar to drivers of Volkswagen cars.
Although the Taos is small, it offers class-leading cargo space with the rear seats folded. That room increases to 60.2 cubic feet with the second row flattened. The only downside to this generous room is that sliding the front seats all the way back cuts into legroom significantly.
In our tests, the Taos achieved EPA-rated fuel economy of 28 mpg city and 40 mpg highway in front-wheel-drive versions and 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway in 4Motion all-wheel-drive models. It also performed well in our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, where it was able to match the top score of all of our rivals.
The 2024 Taos is a solid value in the subcompact SUV market, but it’s not without its flaws. Consumer Reports gives it a low predicted reliability rating and a 1-of-5 owner satisfaction score. We think buyers should weigh these concerns against the Taos’ impressive list of features.
Technology
The Taos rides firmly but comfortably, a welcome change from many other subcompact SUVs. It’s agile and confident in tight maneuvers, and it makes quick work of parking maneuvers and U-turns. Its 158-horsepower engine has enough pep to keep up with traffic, and the dual-clutch automatic transmission is a pleasure to operate.
This little VW aligns with the aesthetic of its larger SUV lineup, bringing a handsome, contemporary design to this segment. It also features ample storage and passenger space for a subcompact, a plus in our book.
In back, the Taos can accommodate up to five passengers, thanks to a roomy back seat that fits three across. Adding a panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light. If you want even more comfort, available ventilated front seats provide support as well as style.
Standard on the Taos is a 6.5-inch infotainment screen that employs Volkswagen’s MIB2 system. Higher trim levels upgrade to an 8.0-inch display. Both systems are straightforward and easy to use, though the base one looks dated compared to class-leading systems.
For safety, the Taos earned a Good rating in IIHS’ moderate overlap front and side crash tests. It also has a strong standard rearview camera. If you want more active driver assistance features, opt for the SEL model. It bundles forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
Safety
Volkswagen is a bit late to the small SUV party but it’s still managed to make a solid entry into the segment. The Taos offers a handsome exterior design wrapped around two rows of seats in a compact package that’s practical and businesslike. Its powerful turbocharged 1.5-liter engine gives it solid acceleration, and its fuel efficiency is impressive for the class.
The Taos is a great choice for commuters and families alike. The spacious cabin provides plenty of legroom, and the rear seats slide to accommodate more cargo. There are also lots of storage spaces to keep your gear organized. Plus, the Taos’ large front door openings and good rear visibility mean it’s easy to get in and out of.
Its safety ratings are strong for the subcompact SUV class, with four out of five stars from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and an excellent rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. However, the Taos struggles with the passenger-side small overlap front crash test, and its headrests and seat earn only a Good score from the IIHS. The good news is that it comes standard with a rearview camera and plenty of active safety features. For instance, the Taos’ forward collision warning system can detect vehicles in your blind spot and automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or even prevent an accident.
Interior
Ample cargo space, roomy passenger accommodations, and comfort-focused seating define the cabin of the 2024 VW Taos. The German brand’s latest entry into the subcompact SUV class offers a wealth of premium features that modern drivers demand.
The Taos is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers up to 158 horsepower. It sends power to the front wheels in FWD models and the rear axle in AWD versions. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard, while a seven-speed dual-clutch autobox is optional.
Regardless of drivetrain configuration, the Taos accelerates to 60 mph in about nine seconds and offers solid fuel economy numbers. Its top speed is 105 mph.
This spry little SUV handles quick maneuvers like parking maneuvers and U-turns with ease, and its suspension gives a taut yet comfortable ride. The interior feels well-built, and the cabin is filled with thoughtful details that enhance driving pleasure and convenience.
The base Taos S is priced at $23,995 and includes features like a 6.5-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and a rearview camera. Upgrade to the SE, and you’ll get a larger 8.0-inch screen with wireless smartphone mirroring, and the top SEL adds navigation and Volkswagen’s 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster display.