Volkswagen goes to inject a bit extra pizzazz into the compact SUV section with its up to date Taos. The infant crossover will profit from the standard nip-and-tuck remedy we have come to anticipate from a midcycle replace — with one nice twist: The 1.5-liter engine carries over, however with some nifty upgrades that increase the output to 174 horsepower. That is a bump of 16 horses over the 2024 — not unhealthy in any respect for a mere refresh. VW now pairs the all-wheel drive mannequin with a standard eight-speed automated transmission; the previous seven-speed DSG is headed out to pasture.
The brand new face loses the jowly air curtains that dominated the decrease bumper extremities. This cleaner look is accentuated by the body-colored grill insert. Don’t be concerned, although; there’s loads of plastic mesh remaining within the backside half of the bumper. Kidding apart, we might name this an improve. It is excellent news out again too. Whereas the brand new steady tail gentle look is probably not unique, it does work properly right here.
Inside, there’s excellent news and unhealthy, although your particular person preferences might come into play right here. Let’s begin with the unhealthy: the HVAC dials are gone. Of their place, we get the touch-sensitive sliders that VW has integrated into a lot of its new interiors. They do not do the job any higher than what they changed, however for higher or for worse, they do match the gloss black on the bezel surrounding the brand new, 8-inch infotainment setup. VW additionally gave the seats some love; the brand new distinction association fits them.
VW would not have pricing information to share on the 2025 Taos simply but. Count on particulars (and deliveries) earlier than the top of the yr.