First impression!
What’s new for the Taos? LOTS! Beginning with an eight-speed automatic transmission that replaces the seven-speed dual clutch automatic on AWD models and more horsepower, refinement will undoubtedly greatly improve. All models heading into the 2025 model year will receive a 1.5-liter turbo-charged four-cylinder engine with horsepower increasing from 158 to 174.
This change will serve to boost its 0-60 mph acceleration time from 0-60 mph of 7.4 seconds with AWD and 7.6 seconds with FWD. Regardless of drivetrain, all models come equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission as front-drive models always have, in place of the outgoing AWD model’s seven-speed dual-clutch auto.
A peek inside reveals a revised interior complete with updated dashboard design, with a light-colored lower dash panel now breaking up what used to be a vast amount of gray. This contrasting color extends to the door panels, which are wrapped in soft-touch leatherette, with the stitching pattern different with each trim level.
Standard and new is an 8.0-inch touchscreen, small by industry standards. Drivers could expect wireless smartphone mirroring, and top models could come equipped with a full digital 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with lower-level trims presented with the smaller 8.0-inch display. Interior dimensions are likely to remain unchanged in the 2025 model year, with the Taos beating out key rivals for second-row space and overall cargo volume.
Last year, for legroom, in the front it came in at 42.1 inches and at rear 38.0 inches. Cargo space with the seats up was 24.9-27.9 inches and 60.2-65.9 inches with the seats down.
On the outside, the Taos for 2025 delights with updated styling made clear with a new grille and illuminated VW badges as well as additional colors in shades of blue, green and gray.
In the area of safety, the Taos has room to improve. That is because it had previously failed to impress in crash testing, receiving a score of “Acceptable” from the IIHS in 2024. Despite that blemish, heading into the new model year, the Taos will feature the IQ.Drive suite of safety features on every trim level.
Drivers find confidence and peace of mind in such features as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and travel assist semi-autonomous driving assistant. There are also front and rear parking sensors available.
Cost-wise, the Taos is an attractive and affordable option. The S trim starts at $24,155; the S 4Motion at $26,495; the SE, $28,925; the SE 4Motion, $30,375 and the SEL 4Motion, $34,535.
No longer drab inside, with attractive color palettes for the exterior and clean lines, and the all-new Taos’ improvements are not only noticeable but quite likable!
Poised to go on sale later this year, with pricing announced at that time, the Taos is worth your first look indeed! More power for VW’s smallest SUV with a new refresh for 2025, just one look is all it takes! Reserve yours today!