At Tom Bush Volkswagen in Jacksonville, FL, we’re excited to showcase the Volkswagen Taos, a compact SUV that’s making waves in the automotive world. Named after the picturesque town in New Mexico, the Taos embodies the spirit of adventure and practicality that many drivers seek. But is the Volkswagen Taos a good car? Let’s dive into a comprehensive review to help you make an informed decision.
Inventory Options: Finding Your Perfect Taos
Whether you’re in the market for a new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle, the Taos offers options to fit various budgets and preferences. New models showcase the latest features and technology, while used and CPO options provide value for the budget-conscious buyer. For those who want a truly personalized experience, Volkswagen offers custom build and price options, allowing you to tailor your Taos to your exact specifications.
Trim Levels: Tailored to Your Needs
The Volkswagen Taos comes in three distinct trim levels, each offering a unique set of features:
- S (Base Model):
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- LED headlights
- 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking
- SE (Mid-Range):
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Leatherette seating surfaces
- 8-inch touchscreen with wireless App-Connect
- Blind spot monitor and rear traffic alert
- SEL (Top-Tier):
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- LED projector headlights with adaptive front lighting system
- Leather seating surfaces
- 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro
Infotainment and Driver Assistance: Tech at Your Fingertips
The Taos doesn’t skimp on technology. Its infotainment system, available with screens ranging from 6.5 to 8 inches, offers seamless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro provides a customizable 10.25-inch display, putting crucial information directly in your line of sight.
Driver assistance features abound in the Taos, with options like:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Assist
- Park Distance Control
- High Beam Control (Light Assist)
These features work together to enhance safety and convenience, making the Taos a technologically advanced choice in its segment.
Engine and Performance: Compact but Mighty
Under the hood, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos boasts a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission in front-wheel drive models, while all-wheel drive versions utilize a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
The Taos offers a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD), catering to different driving needs and preferences. While not primarily designed for heavy-duty towing, the Taos can handle light towing tasks, with a capacity suitable for small trailers or recreational equipment.
Fuel Economy: Efficiency Meets Performance
Fuel efficiency is a strong suit for the Taos. The FWD models boast an impressive EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. AWD versions are slightly less efficient but still competitive, with 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. These figures make the Taos an excellent choice for both daily commutes and longer journeys.
Interior and Cargo Space: Compact Outside, Spacious Inside
Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the Taos offers surprisingly generous interior space. It comfortably seats five passengers with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The cargo area is equally impressive, with 28 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats in FWD models (24.9 cubic feet in AWD versions). Fold down the rear seats, and you’ll find up to 66 cubic feet of cargo space, rivaling some larger SUVs.
Reliability and Potential Concerns: Addressing the Suction Jet Pump Issue
While the Volkswagen Taos has garnered praise for its design and features, it’s important to address a significant concern that has affected some Volkswagen and Audi models, including the Taos. A class action lawsuit was filed in August 2024 regarding a defect in the suction jet pump and other fuel tank components in certain Volkswagen and Audi vehicles, including the 2022-2024 Volkswagen Taos models.
Understanding the Suction Jet Pump Lawsuit
The lawsuit alleges that the affected vehicles, including the Taos, are equipped with defective suction jet pumps and/or other fuel tank components that can fail prematurely. This issue can potentially cause several problems:
- Fuel leaks
- Premature nozzle shutoffs while refueling
- Fuel spillbacks
- Gas odors in the vehicle
- Increased risk of fire
The complaint suggests that these issues may be caused by inadequate seals, degradation of pump materials when exposed to fuel, improper gas tank or pump design, or problems with the overall fuel system design.
Volkswagen’s Response and Ongoing Developments
Volkswagen has taken steps to address these concerns:
- Recall Actions: In February 2024, Volkswagen issued a recall for vehicles potentially affected by the suction jet pump issue. This recall aimed to inspect and, if necessary, replace the problematic components.
- Warranty Extensions: In October 2022, Volkswagen extended the warranty for fuel tank suction jet pumps in certain models to 15 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. This extension included the replacement of the fuel tank with an improved suction jet pump.
- Ongoing Investigation: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into the issue in December 2023 and closed it in July 2024 based on Volkswagen’s recall and repair actions.
However, the lawsuit alleges that these actions may not have fully addressed all the defective components. As of May 2025, the lawsuit is still ongoing, with a judge allowing it to continue for customers in certain states while dismissing nationwide claims.
What This Means for Taos Owners and Potential Buyers
If you own a 2022-2024 Volkswagen Taos or are considering purchasing one, here are some important points to keep in mind:
- Stay Informed: Keep track of any recalls or service bulletins related to your vehicle. Volkswagen is required to notify owners of any safety-related recalls.
- Regular Maintenance: Adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule and have your vehicle inspected regularly by authorized Volkswagen service centers.
- Be Observant: If you notice any unusual odors, difficulties while refueling, or other fuel-related issues, have your vehicle checked immediately.
- Warranty Coverage: Understand your vehicle’s warranty coverage, including any extensions related to the fuel system components.
- Legal Rights: Be aware of your rights as a consumer and stay informed about the ongoing lawsuit and any potential settlements or resolutions.
It’s important to note that while this issue has affected some vehicles, many Taos owners have not experienced these problems. Volkswagen has shown a commitment to addressing the issue through recalls and warranty extensions. As always, we recommend discussing any concerns with our knowledgeable staff at Tom Bush Volkswagen in Jacksonville, FL.
Value Retention and Cost of Ownership
When considering a new vehicle, it’s natural to wonder about its long-term value. The Volkswagen Taos has shown competitive value retention in its class. While it may not lead the pack, it holds its value reasonably well compared to other compact SUVs.
As for maintenance costs, the Taos is generally on par with other vehicles in its class. While Volkswagens aren’t typically the cheapest to maintain, they aren’t the most expensive either. Regular maintenance, as outlined in your owner’s manual, can help keep costs down and extend the life of your vehicle.
Finance Options: Making Your Taos Affordable
At Tom Bush Volkswagen, we offer a range of financing options to make owning a Taos more accessible. Whether you prefer to lease or buy, our finance team can work with you to find a solution that fits your budget. Leasing can be an attractive option for those who enjoy driving a new vehicle every few years, while buying might be preferable for those looking for long-term ownership.
The Taos in Context: Comparisons and Considerations
When shopping for a compact SUV, you might wonder how the Taos stacks up against its siblings in the Volkswagen lineup. While the Taos is smaller than the Tiguan, it offers nearly as much interior space, making it an excellent choice for those who want Tiguan-like practicality in a more city-friendly package.
Built in Puebla, Mexico, the Taos represents Volkswagen’s commitment to producing vehicles tailored to the North American market. It runs on regular unleaded gasoline, making it an economical choice for daily driving.
While not traditionally considered a luxury vehicle, the Taos, especially in its higher trim levels, offers a level of refinement and features that can rival some entry-level luxury SUVs. Its European-inspired design and high-quality materials give it a premium feel without the premium price tag.
The Volkswagen Taos presents a compelling option in the compact SUV market. Its combination of efficient performance, spacious interior, and advanced features make it a strong contender for those seeking a versatile and stylish vehicle. While it’s had its share of growing pains, Volkswagen’s commitment to addressing issues and improving the vehicle bodes well for its future.
We invite you to visit Tom Bush Volkswagen in Jacksonville to experience the Taos for yourself. Whether you’re drawn to its efficient engine, spacious interior, or advanced technology, we’re confident you’ll find much to appreciate in this compact SUV.
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