2025 Volkswagen Taos Exemplifies the Appeal of Modern Compact SUVs

Small SUVs are rapidly becoming the vehicle of choice for American drivers, replacing compact sedans in driveways across the country. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos embodies this shift, combining the practicality and fuel efficiency of a small car with the versatility and confidence of an SUV. With a refreshed design, enhanced technology, and a more powerful engine, the new Taos stands out in a competitive market where buyers are increasingly prioritizing elevated driving positions, all-wheel-drive capability, and interior flexibility. The Taos reflects Volkswagen's response to changing consumer preferences, reinforcing the growing dominance of compact SUVs over traditional sedans.

The Trending Rise of Small SUVs

The American automotive landscape has experienced a seismic shift over the past decade as consumers move away from sedans and gravitate toward small SUVs. According to the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), SUVs accounted for over 55% of new vehicle sales in 2023, with compact crossovers leading the surge. The Volkswagen Taos competes in one of the fastest-growing segments, which includes the Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Mazda CX-30. Buyers are drawn to small SUVs for their elevated driving position, improved cargo capacity, and available all-wheel-drive capability—features typically unavailable in compact sedans. Additionally, insurance rates and fuel economy for small SUVs are now comparable to those of compact cars, eliminating the financial disadvantage that once came with choosing a crossover. With its EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined and competitive starting price, the Taos taps into these shifting priorities, positioning itself as a more practical yet capable alternative to a traditional small car.

Expressive Styling and Design Updates

Volkswagen has refreshed the 2025 Taos with a bolder, more modern design that reflects its sporty and capable nature. The front fascia features a redesigned bumper, a sleeker grille with an available light bar, and standard LED projector headlights with Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS). Connected taillights and an illuminated Volkswagen badge at the rear enhance the Taos's upscale appearance, giving it a premium feel without the premium price tag. Three new paint colors—Bright Moss Green, Monterey Blue Pearl, and Monument Gray—expand the customization options, allowing buyers some room for personalization. New wheel designs, including 19-inch alloys on the SEL 4MOTION, further enhance the Taos's aggressive yet refined stance. These design updates not only modernize the Taos but also align it with Volkswagen's broader design language seen in models like the Tiguan and Atlas.

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Contemporary Interior and Technology

Inside the 2025 Taos, Volkswagen has introduced a revised dashboard design featuring higher-quality materials and a more ergonomic layout. The centerpiece of the cabin is the new floating 8-inch infotainment display, which integrates seamlessly with the dashboard and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims like the SEL feature leather upholstery in a two-tone black and grey combination or an all-new deep blue option, providing a touch of luxury. Volkswagen has also improved acoustic insulation to reduce road noise, creating a quieter, more comfortable cabin. The Taos comes equipped with the Climatronic® automatic climate control system with touch controls, enhancing convenience and ease of use. The overall design prioritizes driver comfort and usability, catering to the growing demand for small SUVs that feel refined yet practical.

More Power and Smoother Driving

Under the hood, the 2025 Taos features a revised 1.5-liter EA211 turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which now produces 174 horsepower—a 16-horsepower increase over the previous model. Hardware improvements include updated piston rings, redesigned fuel injectors, a modified turbo housing, and a larger intercooler, all contributing to enhanced power delivery and responsiveness. The Taos 4MOTION models are now paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous seven-speed DSG® dual-clutch transmission. This change results in smoother gear shifts and improved low-speed drivability, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear wheels as needed, ensuring better traction and stability on wet or uneven surfaces. Volkswagen's driving mode selection feature allows drivers to tailor performance to different driving conditions. Snow Mode adjusts throttle response and traction control for enhanced grip in snowy or icy conditions. Off-Road Mode optimizes power delivery and suspension for uneven terrain and light trail driving. Eco Mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by adjusting engine performance and transmission behavior. These capabilities give the Taos an edge over most compact sedans and many competing small SUVs, reinforcing its reputation as a versatile, all-weather vehicle.

Advanced Driver Assistance and Standard Safety

Safety is becoming a critical selling point for small SUVs, and Volkswagen has equipped the 2025 Taos with its full IQ.DRIVE® suite of driver assistance features. Travel Assist provides semi-automated driving support on highways, adjusting speed and steering within lane boundaries. Front Assist combines forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring. Active Blind Spot Monitor alerts the driver to vehicles in adjacent lanes. Rear Traffic Alert provides warnings and automatic braking for potential obstacles when reversing. Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, even in heavy traffic. Emergency Assist brings the vehicle to a controlled stop if the driver becomes unresponsive. Volkswagen's commitment to safety has helped the Taos earn high marks in industry crash tests, reinforcing its position as a well-rounded and secure choice for families and commuters alike.

Consumer Outlook and Considerations

The 2025 Taos targets a growing segment of buyers who want the compact footprint and fuel efficiency of a sedan with the practicality and all-weather capability of an SUV. Market research shows that buyers in the compact SUV segment prioritize higher ground clearance and all-wheel-drive capability for better handling and weather resilience, flexible cargo space for transporting sports equipment and travel gear, as well as advanced infotainment and driver-assistance features for a more enjoyable driving experience. The Taos checks all these boxes while maintaining competitive fuel economy and a starting price below many similarly equipped competitors.

The 2025 Volkswagen Taos reflects the broader industry trend toward compact SUVs that deliver both style and substance. By enhancing power, refining design, and upgrading technology, Volkswagen has crafted a small SUV that moves toward the premium direction without an excessive price tag. As compact crossovers continue to outsell sedans, the Taos proves itself to be a versatile, fuel-efficient, and adventure-ready option.

Learn More

For more information or to test drive this vehicle for yourself, stop by a local dealer or visit online at:
Volkswagen | Taos

About Volkswagen

Volkswagen of America, Inc. is an operating unit of Volkswagen Group of America, which is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Volkswagen Group of America's operations in the United States include research and development, parts and vehicle processing, parts distribution centers, sales, marketing and service offices, financial service centers, and a state-of-the-art assembly facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Volkswagen Group is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Arteon, Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, Golf, Golf GTI, ID.4, Jetta, Jetta GLI, Passat, and Tiguan vehicles through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen online at www.vw.com to learn more.