2026 Volkswagen Taos Review
Volkswagen has been trying to understand the American market for decades. Their highest sales year in the United States was back in 1970, and since then, they have never come close to that number again. But Volkswagen is a persistent brand. Their new strategy is simple. Instead of sedans and hatchbacks, they are now focusing on American-sized SUVs.
The smallest SUV they sell in the US is the Volkswagen Taos, recently refreshed for 2026. It enters the hottest and most competitive segment in the country, going up against popular models like the Honda CR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross. The key question is simple. Has Volkswagen done enough to make the Taos a real contender?
Exterior Design and Styling
Volkswagen vehicles often have a restrained and elegant look. Some people call it simple, some call it boring. But the Taos delivers clean lines and a premium look that stands out in this category.
Key exterior highlights
Full LED headlights are standard
Except for the base S trim, all versions get adaptive LED headlights
Light bar across the front that connects the headlamps
A design that mixes elements of both the Volkswagen Atlas and the Volkswagen Golf
Faux exhaust tips at the rear, which blend better with the black trim
Full LED tail lamps with LED backup lights and amber turn indicators
Illuminated Volkswagen logo at the rear
Non-powered tailgate, but dealer-fitted power hatch kits are available
Rear bumper sticks out slightly, providing better bump protection than some rivals
In terms of size, the Taos is 175.9 inches long, placing it on the larger end of the American subcompact SUV segment. Its boxy look and higher roofline give it more practicality than the Toyota Corolla Cross.
2026 Volkswagen Taos Pricing
Volkswagen has revised the pricing for 2026. The changes are not huge, but they matter if you are comparing the 2025 and 2026 models.
2026 Taos price list
| Trim | Price | Change vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| S (Base) | $27,975 | + $1,105 |
| SE | + $75 | Minimal change |
| SE Black (mid-level, as tested) | $31,465 | Updated pricing |
| SEL | — | Slight increase, gains two extra speakers and improved wireless charging mat |
Not every model saw a price bump. If value matters, a 2025 model might still be worth checking at dealerships.
Engine, Performance, and Efficiency
All 2025 and 2026 Taos variants use the same updated 1.5-litre turbocharged engine. This engine has received multiple improvements including new injectors, an updated intercooler, and a new turbocharger.
Engine specs
1.5 L turbo petrol
174 hp
184 lb-ft torque
8-speed automatic in AWD models
Front-wheel drive models retain previous tuning
No hybrid option
Fuel economy is good, though hybrids in this segment are more efficient.
Fuel economy
31 MPG (FWD)
28 MPG (AWD)
Most competitors use CVTs, so buyers who dislike CVTs will appreciate the Taos for sticking with a traditional automatic transmission.
Interior Comfort and Space
The Taos focuses strongly on practicality. Thanks to its higher roofline, the SUV feels more spacious than many rivals in this class.
Front Seat Experience
Excellent headroom, even for tall drivers
Comfortable seats that suit upright driving positions
Driver seat gets two-way adjustable lumbar
Front passenger seat is manual
Tilt and telescopic steering with good range
Large seat travel perfect for long-legged drivers
For comfort in this category, the Taos seats score 10 out of 10.
Rear Seat Space and Family Practicality
Volkswagen has managed to carve out one of the roomiest rear seats in the subcompact SUV segment. Even with the front seat adjusted for a six-foot driver, the second row offers impressive space.
Rear seat highlights
9.5 inches of legroom left with driver’s seat adjusted comfortably
Rear seat width is slightly more than average
Upright seating angle and low floor increase comfort
Enough space for large rear-facing child seats
Headroom remains excellent, even in the middle seat
Suitable for tall passengers, including those above six-foot-four
In real-world use, the Taos rear seat feels roomier than the Toyota Corolla Cross.
Boot Space and Practicality
Cargo room varies slightly between FWD and AWD versions because AWD uses a different rear suspension. However, both variants can hold four 24-inch suitcases with some effort.
Cargo area features
Higher floor in AWD models
No adjustable load floor
Useful ski pass-through
Temporary spare wheel included
High-opening tailgate makes loading easier
Plenty of headroom under the open hatch
Interior Design, Materials, and Features
Volkswagen sent the mid-level trim for testing, which is one of the most common configurations at dealerships.
Key features in the cabin
Large panoramic moonroof with power shade
LED reading lights
Grab handles for all passengers except the driver
Mixed leatherette and fabric upholstery
Good side bolstering
Heated front seats
Hard plastics in many areas, especially in the rear
Piano black trim that can scratch easily
Dashboard and Tech
Tablet-style infotainment screen with a thick bezel
Latest Volkswagen software interface
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support
Touch-based climate controls (illuminated at night)
Large wireless charging pad
Start/Stop button
Parking sensor controls
Multiple button blanks in mid-trims
Two large cup holders
The infotainment screen is on the smaller side compared to some competitors, but acceptable for this price range.
Driving Experience
The updated engine delivers a smooth and efficient performance. Its stronger torque output compared to naturally aspirated competitors helps during city acceleration and overtaking. The Taos maintains Volkswagen’s typical chassis tuning, offering stability and comfort on highways and winding roads.
The new 8-speed automatic in AWD models is designed to appeal to buyers who disliked the old dual-clutch transmission.
Conclusion: Has Volkswagen Cracked the Code?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos is stylish, practical, and efficient. It delivers:
One of the most spacious interiors in the segment
Premium LED lighting
Strong fuel economy
Comfortable seats and excellent headroom
A more refined driving experience
But it lacks hybrid powertrains and uses hard plastics in many places. These trade-offs mean it may not be the perfect solution for every buyer. However, for someone who wants a roomy, well-tuned, compact SUV with clean styling, the Taos is a strong option.
2026 Volkswagen Taos FAQs
1. What is the price of the 2026 Volkswagen Taos?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos starts at $27,975 for the base S trim, while higher trims like the SE Black and SEL are priced above $31,000 depending on configuration.
2. What engine does the 2026 Volkswagen Taos use?
The 2026 Taos is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 174 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.
3. Is the 2026 Volkswagen Taos available in AWD?
Yes, the Taos offers an AWD option with an updated 8-speed automatic transmission for improved drivability.
4. What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Volkswagen Taos?
The SUV delivers 31 MPG in the FWD variant and 28 MPG in the AWD variant under combined driving conditions.
5. How spacious is the 2026 Taos interior?
The Taos offers excellent headroom and legroom in both rows, making it one of the most spacious cabins in its segment.
6. Does the 2026 Volkswagen Taos have a panoramic sunroof?
Yes, most mid and top trims offer a panoramic sunroof with a power sunshade.
7. How many suitcases can the Taos carry?
The cargo area can fit up to four 24-inch suitcases with careful arrangement, making it practical for family travel.
8. What infotainment features come with the 2026 Taos?
The Taos includes a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and multiple USB ports depending on the trim.
9. Does the 2026 Taos include adaptive LED headlights?
Yes, all trims except the base S model offer adaptive LED headlights as standard.
10. Is the 2026 Volkswagen Taos good for tall drivers?
Yes, the Taos has excellent headroom, seat travel, and a wide range of steering adjustment, making it comfortable for tall drivers.
11. How does the Taos compare to the Toyota Corolla Cross?
The Taos offers a roomier interior, more headroom, turbocharged performance, and better rear seat space compared to the Corolla Cross.
12. Does the 2026 Taos have rear AC vents?
No, the Taos does not offer dedicated rear AC vents, but overall airflow in the cabin is well distributed.
13. What safety features does the 2026 Taos offer?
The SUV includes multiple airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking depending on trim level.
14. Is the 2026 Volkswagen Taos worth buying?
Yes, the Taos is a strong choice for buyers seeking a roomy compact SUV with good performance, clean styling, and solid fuel efficiency.
