Let’s Compare the 2025 Taos S, SE, SE Black & SEL

2025 Volkswagen Taos blue SUV

Volkswagen’s compact SUV, the Taos, has been winning over drivers with its perfect blend of versatility, efficiency, and affordability since its debut.

As we take a look at the progression from the 2023 VW Taos through the 2024 model and into the newly released 2025 version, we’ll see the subtle refinements and improvements that Volkswagen has implemented across three model years. Whether you’re considering an upgrade from an older Taos or comparing different model years for your first purchase, this comprehensive comparison will highlight the key differences in design, technology, performance, and value that set each model apart.

Vehicles	2025 Taos S	2025 Taos SE	2025 Taos SE Black	2025 Taos SEL
MSRP¹	$24,995	$27,895	$30,145	$34,695
Body Style	2-Row Compact SUV	2-Row Compact SUV	2-Row Compact SUV	2-Row Compact SUV
Drivetrain	Front Wheel Drive (FWD) (also AWD available)	Front Wheel Drive (FWD) (also AWD available)	Front Wheel Drive (FWD) (also AWD available)	All- Wheel Drive (AWD) Only
Engine	1.5L TSI® 16-valve DOHC turbo 4-cylinder engine	1.5L TSI® 16-valve DOHC turbo 4-cylinder engine	1.5L TSI® 16-valve DOHC turbo 4-cylinder engine	1.5L TSI® 16-valve DOHC turbo 4-cylinder engine
Transmission	8-speed Automatic Transmission (4MOTION offers 7-speed Automatic)	8-speed Automatic Transmission (4MOTION offers 7-speed Automatic)	8-speed Automatic Transmission (4MOTION offers 7-speed Automatic)	8-speed Automatic Transmission (4MOTION offers 7-speed Automatic)
Horsepower	174 hp @ 5,500 rpm	158 hp @ 5500 rpm	158 hp @ 5500 rpm	174 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque	184 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm	184 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm	184 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm	184 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm
Fuel Type	Regular Unleaded Gasoline	Regular Unleaded Gasoline	Regular Unleaded Gasoline	Regular Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel (MPG)	28 city / 36 highway / 31 combined	28 city / 36 highway / 31 combined	28 city / 36 highway / 31 combined	28 city / 36 highway / 31 combined
Fuel Tank Capacity	13.2 gallon	13.2 gallon	13.2 gallon	13.2 gallon
Space & Comfort
Seating Capacity	5	5	5	5
Passenger Volume	99.5 cu.ft.	99.5 cu.ft.	99.5 cu.ft.	99.5 cu.ft.
Cargo Volume to Seat 1 (all rear seats folded down)	65.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 60.2 cu.ft.)	65.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 60.2 cu.ft.)	65.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 60.2 cu.ft.)	65.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 60.2 cu.ft.)
Cargo Volume to Seat 2 (only the second-row seats are in place)	27.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 24.9 cu.ft.)	27.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 24.9 cu.ft.)	27.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 24.9 cu.ft.)	27.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 24.9 cu.ft.)
Trunk Volume	27.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 24.9 cu.ft.)	27.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 24.9 cu.ft.)	27.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 24.9 cu.ft.)	27.9 cu.ft. (w/ 4MOTION 24.9 cu.ft.)
Front Headroom	40.7 in.	40.7 in.	40.7 in.	40.7 in.
Front Legroom	40.1 in.	40.1 in.	40.1 in.	40.1 in.
Rear Headroom	39.8 in.	39.8 in.	39.8 in.	39.8 in.
Rear Legroom	37.9 in.	37.9 in.	37.9 in.	37.9 in.
Passenger Volume	99.5 cu.ft.	99.5 cu.ft.	99.5 cu.ft.	99.5 cu.ft.
Size & Dimensions
Height	64.5 in.	64.5 in.	64.5 in.	64.5 in.
Length	175.9 in.	175.9 in.	175.9 in.	175.9 in.
Width, Max w/o mirrors (in.)	72.5 in.	72.5 in.	72.5 in.	72.5 in.
Wheelbase	105.9 in.	105.9 in.	105.9 in.	105.9 in.
Curb Weight	3201 lbs.	3201 lbs.	3201 lbs.	3201 lbs.
Towing Capacity	1500 lbs.	1500 lbs.	1500 lbs.	1500 lbs.
Turning Diameter	35.1 ft.	35.1 ft.	35.1 ft.	35.1 ft.
Wheels	17 in.	17 in.	17 in.	17 in.
Drive Modes	Standard: Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom. 4MOTION (AWD) models offers: Off-Road, Snow, and Off-Road Custom modes	Standard: Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom. 4MOTION (AWD) models offers: Off-Road, Snow, and Off-Road Custom modes	Standard: Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom. 4MOTION (AWD) models offers: Off-Road, Snow, and Off-Road Custom modes	Standard: Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom. 4MOTION (AWD) models offers: Off-Road, Snow, and Off-Road Custom modes

Recognition

Volkswagen Taos Strong Points

2025 Volkswagen Taos

Very comfortable interior
Surprisingly large cargo area for a compact SUV
Refined and stable highway driving

2024 Volkswagen Taos

Impressive fuel economy
Available all-wheel drive
Great interior space for passengers and cargo

2023 Volkswagen Taos

Gentle ride
Lots of cargo and passenger space
Good gas mileage

What’s New for the Volkswagen Taos?

2025 Volkswagen Taos

Exterior styling is refreshed, including a full-width LED light bar
Updated interior features new controls and improved materials
Larger standard touchscreen display
1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine now produces 174 horsepower (16 hp increase from the previous year)
All-wheel-drive (AWD) models switched from dual-clutch transmission to conventional automatic transmission

2024 Volkswagen Taos

The IQ.DRIVE suite of advanced driver-assist features was made standard
Additional standard and available features across trims

2023 Volkswagen Taos

Forward collision mitigation and blind-spot warning were made standard
The IQ.DRIVE suite became standard on the SE trim and higher
Panoramic sunroof made standard on SEL trim

Best Trim

The best trim is subjective, but we think the S AWD model gives you the most bang for your buck. Starting around $26,600 MSRP, you get space, affordability, and safety all in one stylish package. Plus, making it all-wheel drive offers extra confidence on rugged terrain, thick mud, or snowy roads. This entry-level model offers a lot of great features, including:

Travel Assist
Adaptive Cruise Control
Active Blind Spot Monitor
Rear Traffic Alert
Front Assist
Emergency Assist
Lane Assist

Standard comfort and convenience features include:

Heated, leatherette-wrapped steering wheel
Push-button engine start
VW Digital Cockpit
Two front USB-C data ports (45-watt charging)
6.5-inch touchscreen
Leather-wrapped gear shift knob
Rearview Camera System

Trim Level MSRP

S: $24,995

SE: $27,895

SE Black: $30,145

SEL: $34,695

Breakdown of the 2025 Taos Trim Levels

VW Taos S

The base model Taos is packed with impressive features to make every commute or weekend adventure that much better. These features include:

Technology & Connectivity

6.5-inch touchscreen
Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
Two front USB-C data ports with 45-watt charging capabilities
Travel Assist
Adaptive Cruise Control
Active Blind Spot Monitor
Rear Traffic Alert
Front Assist
Emergency Assist
Lane Assist
VW Digital Cockpit

Safety Features

IQ.DRIVE® suite of safety features
- Forward Collision Warning
- Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Lane Assist
Rearview camera system
Side Curtain Protection® head airbags in both front and rear
Tire pressure monitoring system
LATCH child seat anchor points

Comfort & Convenience

Heated, leatherette-wrapped steering wheel
Push-button engine start
Leather-wrapped gear shift knob
Rearview camera system

VW Taos SE

The mid-tier Taos SE builds on the base model, providing an even more luxurious ride. In the SE, you’ll find:

Technology & Connectivity

Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
8-inch touchscreen
Wireless charging capabilities
Keyless access & Push-button start
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Volkswagen Digital Cockpit

Safety Features

Everything on the SE

Comfort & Convenience

Heated front seats
8-way power adjustable driver seat with lumbar support
6-way manually adjustable passenger seat
Dual-zone climate control
CloudTex & Cloth seating
Keyless Access & Push-Button Start

VW Taos SE Black

A sleek, blacked-out version of the SE model, the SE Black delivers unmatched style. Features include:

Technology & Connectivity

8-inch touchscreen (same as SE)
Two USB-C data ports up front and one in the rear USB-C charging port
Volkswagen Digital Cockpit

Safety Features

Everything included on previous trims

Comfort & Convenience

Power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof
Rear USB-C charging port

Exterior Design

Black exterior accents, including the roof, A-pillars, mirror caps, and spoiler
Projector headlights with signature daytime running lights
Integrated light bar in the front grille

VW Taos SEL

The top-of-the-line SEL delivers affordable luxury with features like:

Technology & Connectivity

8-inch touchscreen (same as SE and SE Black)
Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
Wireless charging (same as SE)
Ambient interior lighting

Safety Features

Same as previous trims

Comfort & Convenience

Leather upholstery
Ventilated front seats
Panoramic sunroof
Remote start

Exterior Design

19-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires
Integrated light bar in front
Heated, foldable, power-adjustable side mirrors
Panoramic sunroof
Silver roof rails

Get to Know the 2025 Volkswagen Taos

Performance

Engine & Powertrain

1.5L TSI® 16-valve DOHC turbo 4-cylinder engine
8-speed automatic transmission
Front-wheel drive
Available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive

Performance

Horsepower: 158 hp to 177 hp, depending on the powertrain

Steering & Efficiency

Electric power steering
Engine Start-Stop System

Speed

0-60 Speed: 7.4 seconds (Based on U.S. News & World Reports test)
100 MPH: 21.1 seconds (Based on Car and Driver test)

Technology

Connectivity & Charging

2 front USB-C data ports (45w fast charging)
App-Connect® smartphone integration (for compatible devices) via USB
Bluetooth® technology with audio streaming for compatible devices
myVW with connected vehicle services from Car-Net®

Audio & Entertainment

4 speakers
8″ touchscreen with AM/FM/HD Radio

Driver Assistance & Safety

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert (RTA)
Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning & Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring)
Light Assist (High Beam Control for headlights)
Travel Assist, Lane Assist, & Emergency Assist

Instrument Display

Volkswagen Digital Cockpit: 8″ digital instrument display

Convenience & Comfort

Push-button engine start

Appearance

Interior

Standard Interior Options Include:

Cloth seating surfaces
Front center armrest with storage compartment
Leather-wrapped gear shift knob
Leatherette-wrapped, heated, multi-function steering wheel
Manual climate control
Manually adjustable driver seat/ 6-way manually adjustable front seats
Rear seat: 60/40 split-folding, w/ center armrest & pass-through

Higher Trim Level Options Include:

Ambient interior lighting
Auto-dimming interior rearview mirror
Heated front seats
Leather seating surfaces
Leather-wrapped gear shift knob
Ventilated front seats

Interior Colors:

S: offers black and gray two-tone cloth upholstery
SE: offers CloudTex and cloth materials in two-tone options
SE Black: offers all-black

Exterior

Standard Exterior Options Include:

17″ alloy wheels with all-season tires
Automatic, LED projector headlights & LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
Black roof rails
Coming/Leaving Home feature
Foldable, power-adjustable side mirrors
Rain-sensing, variable intermittent front wipers

High Trim Level Options Include:

19″ alloy wheels with all-season tires
Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) with dynamic cornering lights
Automatic, LED projector headlights & LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
Coming/Leaving Home feature
Heated washer nozzles
Heated, foldable, power-adjustable side mirrors
Integrated light bar in front grille
Power tilting & sliding panoramic sunroof
Rain-sensing, variable intermittent front wipers
Silver roof rails

Exterior Colors:

Bright Moss Green
Monterey Blue Pearl
Monument Gray.
Pyrite Silver Metallic
Platinum Gray Metallic
Deep Black Pearl
Pure White
Cornflower Blue

Safety

Anti-Theft & Security

Anti-theft alarm system with engine immobilizer

Airbags & Braking Systems

Airbags:
- Advanced Airbag Protection System with six airbags
- Front and rear Side Curtain Protection® head airbags
Braking:
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electronic brake-pressure distribution
- Hydraulic Brake Assist
- Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
- Engine Brake Assist

Stability & Traction Control

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)

Child & Passenger Safety

LATCH System for child seats: Lower Anchors & Tethers for Children
Front height-adjustable safety belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters

Visibility & Monitoring

Rearview Camera System
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

IQ.DRIVE System (Standard):
- Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance)
- Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring)
- Active Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Traffic Alert
- Adaptive Cruise Control Stop and Go
- Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System)
- Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency)

Warranty

New Vehicle Warranty

Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty:
- 4 years or 50,000 miles (whichever comes first)²

Maintenance

Scheduled Carefree Maintenance
- First two years of manufacturer-recommended maintenance intervals
- 2 years or 20,000 miles (whichever comes first)³

Roadside Assistance

24/7 Roadside Assistance:
- Includes: towing, fuel delivery, battery jump start, lock-out service, and more⁴

Remote Features

myVW App:
- Start the car remotely (if equipped with Remote Start)⁵
- Lock and unlock the doors remotely
- Set speed and boundary alerts.
- Locate your car
- Note: Requires VW Car-Net activation through myVW enrollment

Extended Protection

Vehicle Service Protection:
- Up to 10 years or 150,000 miles⁶
- Covers up to 1,500 parts
- Includes 24/7 roadside assistance⁷

Take a Further Look: The Volkswagen Warranty

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As you can see, each VW Taos model year brings its own strengths to the table. The 2023 model established a solid foundation with its practical design and reliable performance, while the 2024 version introduced meaningful technology upgrades and refinements. Now, the 2025 Taos represents the most polished version yet, with enhanced features and subtle improvements.

Whichever year you choose, the VW Taos continues to deliver German engineering in a versatile, compact SUV. When you’re ready to get behind the wheel, visit Carolina Volkswagen in Charlotte, NC!

Buy a Volkswagen Now

FAQs

Is the Taos a 3-Row SUV?
No, the Taos is a 2-row subcompact SUV. If you are interested in a 3-row SUV, we recommend checking out the Volkswagen Atlas.

What is the 0-60 mph acceleration time for the Volkswagen Taos?
According to the U.S. News & World Reports, the Taos 4MOTION goes from 0-60 mph in 7.4 seconds. The Taos front-wheel-drive has a 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds.

How much time is needed for the Taos to achieve a speed of 100 mph?
According to Car and Driver, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos takes 21.1 seconds to reach 100 mph.

Does the 2025 Taos offer a manual transmission?
No, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos is not available with a manual transmission. All models come exclusively with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

What exactly is the Volkswagen 4MOTION?

Volkswagen 4MOTION is the company’s name for its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, designed to enhance traction and stability, especially on difficult terrain, by distributing power to all four wheels. It is available on most trim levels in the new Volkswagen lineup.

Does the VW Taos come with all-wheel drive?

The Volkswagen Taos is available with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), with AWD being an option on the S and SE trims, and standard on the SEL trim. Volkswagen has named its all-wheel-drive system the 4MOTION, and it’s available on all Taos trim levels.

Does the Taos require premium gas?
No, the Taos uses regular unleaded gasoline.

Is the VW Taos a hybrid or a gas vehicle?

The Volkswagen Taos is a gas-powered SUV, and as of 2025, it is not offered as a hybrid or electric vehicle. It is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and 8-speed automatic transmission and takes regular unleaded gasoline.

What are the 2025 Taos interior colors?

The 2025 Taos offers black and gray interior colors as standard on its base level. The SE offers CloudTex and cloth materials in two-tone options, while the SE Black has an additional all-black interior option.

What are the exterior colors of the 2025 Taos?

The 2025 Taos is available in eight exterior colors, including:

Bright Moss Green
Monterey Blue Pearl
Monument Gray
Pyrite Silver Metallic
Platinum Gray Metallic
Deep Black Pearl
Pure White
Cornflower Blue

In terms of size, is the VW Taos smaller than the Tiguan?
Yes, the Volkswagen Taos is smaller than the Volkswagen Tiguan. The Taos is classified as a subcompact SUV, while the Tiguan is a compact SUV. The Taos’ dimensions come in at 176″ L x 73″ W x 64-65″ H, while the Tiguan is 186″ L x 72″ W x 66-67″ H.

How many trim levels does the 2025 Taos offer?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos comes in four trim levels: S, SE, SE Black, and SEL.

Is the production of the Volkswagen Taos being halted?

No, Volkswagen has not announced plans to discontinue the Taos, as it remains a popular choice for those seeking a small SUV.

What are the 2025 Taos drive modes?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos offers selectable drive modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom. Additionally, 4MOTION (AWD) models have Off-Road, Snow, and Off-Road Custom modes.

Does the 2025 Taos drive well in snowy conditions?
Yes, the Taos offers 4MOTION (AWD) with a Snow Mode, making it capable of handling snowy roads.

But remember—no vehicle is completely immune to slipping or sliding. Drive carefully in the snow, even with AWD and Snow Mode engaged.

Can the 2025 Taos drive well on sandy surfaces?
Yes, the Taos is capable of tackling sandy terrain with 4MOTION (All-Wheel Drive) and Off-Road Mode.

Can the 2025 VW Taos drive on muddy surfaces?
Yes, the Taos offers 4MOTION (AWD) with Off-Road Mode, which helps you drive safely on muddy roads.

Disclaimer by Carolina Volkswagen:

Carolina Volkswagen believes the information and specifications on this website to be correct at the time of publishing.

Model specifications provided may vary based on selected trim, options, and installed accessories. Specifications, standard features, options, fabrics, accessories, colors, and other features related to the vehicles are subject to change without notice. Values are based on MSRP and exclude taxes, fees, and adjustments. Please visit certified dealers for more accurate pricing.

Images of vehicles are for illustrative purposes only. Please see the dealer for details and availability.

This page sourced information from Volkswagen.com, along with secondary sources, Car and Driver and Edmunds.

¹Price excludes destination, taxes, title, other options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets the actual price.

²4 years/50,000 miles (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty on all MY20 and newer vehicles. See owner’s literature or dealer for warranty exclusions and limitations.

³VW’s Carefree Maintenance program provides the 10,000- and 20,000-mile scheduled maintenance services or scheduled maintenance services for two years (whichever occurs first) as stated in the vehicle’s maintenance booklet on all MY20 and newer vehicles. See dealer or owner’s literature for provided services, exclusions, and time and other limitations. The Carefree Maintenance program does not provide tire rotations, or other services or parts not specified in the owner’s literature.

⁴3 years/36,000 miles (whichever occurs first) Roadside Assistance on all MY20 and newer vehicles provided by a third party. May require additional payment for services rendered. See owner’s literature or dealer for limitations and details.

⁵Requires myVW mobile app, acceptance of Car-Net Terms of Service, and compatible factory-installed or dealer-installed remote start feature. See Owner’s Manual for further details and important warnings about the keyless ignition feature. Do not leave vehicle unattended with the engine running, particularly in enclosed spaces, and consult local laws for any limitations on use. Standard text and data rates may apply.

⁶The purchase of Volkswagen Drive Easy Protection Vehicle Service Protection is optional and is not required for you to obtain financing for the purchase or lease of a vehicle. Vehicle Service Protection coverage runs concurrently with any applicable manufacturer’s warranties. In-Warranty (New) plan expiration is measured in time or miles, whichever occurs first, from the Agreement Purchase Date and zero (0) miles. Out-of-Warranty plan expiration is measured in time or miles, whichever occurs first, from the Agreement Purchase Date and the Current Odometer Reading as listed on the Customer Agreement Registration Page.

⁷Due to a covered mechanical breakdown. Please consult your Customer Agreement for complete terms and conditions.

New Service Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Let’s Compare the 2025 Taos S, SE, SE Black & SEL

Recognition

Volkswagen Taos Strong Points

What’s New for the Volkswagen Taos?

Best Trim