What’s New in the 2025 VW Taos?

Volkswagen has refined its approach to the American market, prioritizing what consumers truly want with the 2025 Volkswagen Taos. This subcompact SUV has undergone several key updates for the new model year, ranging from enhanced engine performance to a more vibrant and upscale interior. Whether you’re interested in its design, tech, or pricing, the 2025 Taos offers a compelling package for those seeking a versatile and stylish compact SUV.

2025 Volkswagen Taos Pricing Breakdown

Volkswagen recently released pricing for the 2025 Taos lineup, and while the base model sees a slight price increase, it remains competitive in its class. Here’s the breakdown:

• Taos S (FWD): Starts at $26,420, which is $1,000 more than last year’s model.
• 4Motion AWD: Adds $1,700 to the price of any Taos model, making it a versatile choice for those needing extra traction.
• Taos SE (FWD): Priced from $29,320, offering more tech and comfort features.
• Taos SE Black: A special trim starting at $31,570, combining sleek aesthetics with the Taos' performance.
• Taos SEL (AWD): The range-topping model starts at $36,120 and is exclusively offered with AWD for those seeking premium features.

These prices position the Taos in a sweet spot for buyers looking for a subcompact SUV that offers both practicality and style.

Engine Enhancements for the 2025 Taos

Volkswagen engineers have given the 2025 Taos a performance boost that drivers will notice. The SUV retains its familiar 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine but has seen a host of refinements, resulting in a 16-hp increase—now producing 174 horsepower. Key updates include:

• Revised piston rings
• Upgraded turbocharger housing
• Enhanced fuel injectors
• Larger intercooler
• Addition of a gas particulate filter

While the engine’s torque remains at 184 lb-ft, subtle changes to the torque curve may improve the Taos’ acceleration. For reference, the 158-hp 2024 Taos reached 60 mph in 7.4 seconds (FWD) and 7.5 seconds (AWD), so the 2025 model’s performance is expected to improve marginally.

Additionally, VW replaced the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in AWD models with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This change addresses complaints about the dual-clutch’s clunky shifting and aligns the driving experience more closely with customer expectations. The front-wheel-drive Taos continues with its reliable eight-speed automatic transmission.

Interior Upgrades: Style Meets Function

Volkswagen’s attention to detail shines in the updated Taos interior. In response to customer feedback, the brand has "de-drab-ified" the cabin, introducing more vibrant color schemes and higher-quality materials.

• New dash design: The lower dash now features a light-colored panel that contrasts with the rest of the interior, breaking up the formerly gray-dominated design.
• Soft-touch leatherette: The door panels now include soft-touch materials with varying stitching patterns depending on the trim level.
• Tech upgrades: Every 2025 Taos now comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen display as standard. On lower trims, it includes wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while upper trims (SE and SEL) offer wireless connectivity and additional features such as voice control and satellite radio.

This focus on tech and comfort adds a modern, premium feel to the Taos, making it more appealing for tech-savvy drivers.

Exterior Design Refresh

Volkswagen hasn’t neglected the exterior, either. The 2025 Taos receives a refreshed front and rear design, which enhances its road presence and modern appeal:

• Full-width rear light bar: Now standard across the lineup, giving the SUV a distinctive, stylish look.
• Shorter, connected headlights: On the top trims, the headlights are linked by illuminated trim, giving the front end a cohesive and bold appearance.
• LED projector headlights: These come standard on the S trim, while SE models benefit from adaptive headlights and front and rear parking sensors for added convenience and safety.

New color options like Bright Moss Green, Monterey Blue Pearl, and Monument Gray further enhance the Taos’ appeal, offering vibrant and sophisticated choices to suit various tastes.

Performance and Efficiency

Volkswagen has yet to finalize the official fuel economy figures for the 2025 Taos, but the company is optimistic that it will meet or exceed the 2024 model's ratings. In real-world testing, the 2024 front-wheel-drive Taos delivered an impressive 40 mpg on the highway, outperforming its EPA-rated 36 mpg. Meanwhile, the AWD version achieved 33 mpg in the same test, which was also slightly better than its window-sticker estimate.

With the engine updates and transmission improvements, buyers can expect similarly competitive fuel efficiency from the 2025 model.

The Final Word on the 2025 Volkswagen Taos

Volkswagen’s 2025 Taos offers an excellent blend of value, performance, and style in the highly competitive subcompact SUV market. With improved engine power, better transmission options, a refined interior, and fresh exterior looks, the Taos checks all the boxes for buyers looking for a capable and attractive small SUV. The addition of new tech features, premium materials, and eye-catching color options will only increase its appeal to American drivers.

The 2025 Taos is expected to hit dealerships late this year, making it an exciting option for those who want a stylish and efficient SUV. With its competitive pricing and impressive updates, the Taos is ready to challenge other vehicles in its segment. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer to its release.