A new transmission and smart modifications make the Taos a standout vehicle in its class.
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Roomy, versatile and now even smoother with an improved 8-speed automatic transmission.
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The interior and exterior styling has been revised, enhancing its appeal without detracting from its practicality.
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Its competitive price and remarkable features keep it among the best compact SUV choices in Canada.
If you’ve spent any time shopping for SUVs, you know there’s no shortage of choice. It is in the compact and subcompact categories that automakers build their volumes and, consequently, their bread and butter. For Volkswagen, the Taos and the Tiguan practically carry the brand’s sales in North America, with the Atlas range completing the whole. Everything else — electric vehicles, sedans and specialty models — seems like a bonus in comparison. That’s why the 2025 Volkswagen Taos is a big deal.
Volkswagen took a more than decent, if slightly flawed, SUV and made the one change that made all the difference: it replaced the much-maligned DSG transmission with a conventional 8-speed automatic. And they made it even more beautiful.
A new transmission that transforms driving
Let’s not beat around the bush: the Taos before 2025 had problems with its DSG. In theory, this transmission is an engineering marvel, but in practice, at least under the hood of the Taos, it turned into an exercise in frustration — hesitant, cumbersome and clunky. The new 8-speed automatic transmission completely eliminates these problems. The 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is perfectly synced with the new transmission, delivering smoother, more predictable performance.
Although power has increased slightly, from 158 to 174 horsepower, you won’t feel a big difference in everyday driving. Torque remains at 184 lb-ft, from 1,750 to 4,000 rpm, and acceleration is more than adequate for its class. What is striking is how easy driving now feels. No more gear hunting and jerky gear changes that plagued the Taos. Whether on city streets or on the highway, the modernized powertrain is a notable improvement.
Fuel consumption remains competitive, with the all-wheel drive version averaging around 8.4 liters per 100 kilometers on the combined cycle. While it doesn’t set new standards, it’s on par with rivals like the Honda HR-V and better than many others, but it pales in comparison to the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid.
An intelligently renewed style
Volkswagen didn’t stop at the transmission. The 2025 Taos benefits from a well-thought-out facelift, which refines its look without being too radical. The front now gets a sharper grille, revised headlights, an optional illuminated logo and a connecting light bar. New wheel designs and new colors, like the alpine gray of my test model, add elegance to the whole.
At the rear, a light bar spans the full width of the vehicle, bringing it in line with other members of the VW SUV family. The modifications made to the Taos give it a more upscale appearance, in line with Volkswagen’s “mainstream premium” and discreet spirit.
Inside, the updates continue. Soft-touch materials and upgraded finishes enhance the cabin, while blue leather accents available on higher trims add a touch of personality. The dashboard is sleeker and the 8-inch touchscreen is now standard. Fortunately, the physical controls are retained for volume and climate control, but the haptic buttons for the HVAC system are still hidden in inconvenient places. Visibility is excellent, thanks to thin uprights and a screen placed very low.
Space and practicality
The Taos is one of the roomiest compact SUVs on the market. Rear seat space is generous, making it a great choice for families. Even with two car seats installed, there is plenty of room. Cargo space offers a solid 790 liters, which is more than enough for a weekend getaway or a grocery run. Only downside? The power tailgate isn’t standard, but that’s only a minor inconvenience.
Up front, space is also generous. The door bins are deep and useful, and there are plenty of storage spaces. The seats are supportive, with a good number of adjustments. The new dashboard is functional and complements a premium environment.
How it is positioned
In a very crowded segment, the Taos cracked the top five. Compared to the Honda HR-V, it offers more personality. The Toyota Corolla Cross offers optional hybrid efficiency, but the Taos responds with better driving dynamics and comfort. Faced with competitors like the Chevrolet Trax, the Taos holds its place thanks to a balance between practicality and quality. Other members include the Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30, Mitsubishi RVR and the all-new Nissan Kicks.
Volkswagen fixed what needed to be fixed in the 2025 Taos and left the rest alone, resulting in a compact SUV that’s not just good, but truly competitive. With its smooth new drivetrain, updated styling and practical interior, the Taos is ready to take on 2025 as Volkswagen Canada’s likely top seller. If you’re in the market for a small SUV, the Taos absolutely deserves a spot on your shortlist.
