2024 Volkswagen Taos Expert Review
Reviewed by Duncan Brady
Since its introduction for 2022, the Taos has never been our favorite entry in the hyper-competitive subcompact SUV space. Our major complaint had been price. That said, Volkswagen has dramatically improved the affordable base model's standard equipment since launch such that the 2024 Taos may be worth consideration. It competes against other subcompact crossovers including the Subaru Crosstrek, Kia Seltos, Honda HR-V, and Toyota Corolla Cross.
What's New
- Entry-level Taos S adds automatic high-beams, rain-sensing wipers, and a heated steering wheel
- Drive active safety features are now standard on all trims
- Base MSRP is down $160
- Middle-tier Taos SE gains dual-zone automatic climate control and an available SE Black package
What We Think
The Taos has its strengths, but any recommendation comes with strong caveats. Avoid versions with AWD. In the case of most vehicles, the difference between FWD and AWD variants is just a pair of driven wheels, but the AWD Taos comes with a different transmission. That dual-clutch automatic ruins the experience with clunky engagement pulling away from a stop, bizarrely slow shifts at full throttle, and lurching behavior under braking.
We also suggest folks stick toward the lower end of the trim walk, as the range-topping SEL is majorly pricey and only available with AWD. Plus, we like the lower models' analog gauges better. Volkswagen added a handful of driver assist and convenience features as standard this year, too; as long as you're OK with cloth seats, the base model is the most appealing of the lineup.
Performance and fuel economy are aided by Volkswagen's clever variable geometry turbocharger. The Taos doesn't drive like a tall GTI—steering is lifeless, and the suspension tuning prioritizes comfort over control—though acceleration and low-end torque are impressive for a base engine vehicle in this segment.
Poor value, our biggest issue with the Taos, can be avoided if you opt for one of its lower trim levels. Unfortunately there's no way past the substandard safety ratings. Stick with FWD, and you'll find a relatively well-equipped subcompact crossover for those who dig Volkswagen styling and prioritize interior space.
Performance and Efficiency
The Taos comes standard with the same engine as the non-GLI Jetta, a 1.5-liter turbocharged I-4 developing 158 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Although Volkswagen's little SUV is offered with FWD or AWD, we recommend the former, as the two variants have different automatic transmissions and the AWD model's dual-clutch results in a clunky driving experience.
Taos fuel economy is strong for the segment, and again, the front-driver has an advantage. EPA efficiency ratings read 25-28/32-36 mpg city/highway. You won't suffer much in acceleration choosing an FWD Taos, either, and 7.6 seconds to 60 mph (or 7.4 seconds with AWD) is quick for a base-engine subcompact.
Safety Ratings and Features
Subcompact crossovers struggle with safety ratings more than larger alternatives, although some—including the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-30—still manage to achieve great scores. Unfortunately, the 2023 Taos misses on two IIHS crashworthiness tests, including the passenger-side small overlap front test, and the head restraint and seat evaluation. Only the pricey SEL achieves a Good headlight rating. The 2024 Taos only earns a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
Volkswagen partially makes up for this substandard performance by making its IQ.Drive safety features standard for 2024; last year they were standard on SE and SEL but optional on the base S. Even the entry-level Taos now includes adaptive cruise control, lane centering, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beams.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Like the Bronco Sport, the Taos is something of a 'tweener, splitting the size difference between subcompact and compact. As such, it's significantly larger inside than the Subaru Crosstrek, but the Ford has more cargo space. Speaking of the cargo area, buyers will find they'll pay a notable space penalty for AWD.
Technology
Although the base Taos S saddles its buyers with a tiny 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system (that thankfully has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), the SE and SEL get a still smallish 8.0-inch setup with wireless smartphone mirroring. Only the SEL includes navigation and Volkswagen's 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Other trims get an 8.0-inch cluster display.
The Enormous Subcompact Segment
No segment is as crowded or competitive as the subcompact SUV space in which the Taos resides. We measure a full 20 vehicles in the class, currently led by the Hyundai Kona and Subaru Crosstrek. The best examples succeed by providing an accessible price point without feeling cheap, supplying impressive space despite a small footprint, and delivering a driving experience that isn't too loud, stiff, or sloppy.
Recommended Trim
Of the three Taos trims—S, SE, and SEL—we recommend a FWD version of the middle tier. It's a little more than $4,000 pricier than the base model, but you get larger and more handsome alloy wheels, roof rails, a power driver's seat, synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and automatic climate control. Buyers will also see big tech improvements inside in the form of a larger 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a rear USB port and wireless charging pad.
