Taos vs Tiguan: Comparing VW's Popular SUV Lineup
Volkswagen (VW) has long been a trusted name in the automotive industry, offering a diverse lineup of vehicles that cater to various needs and preferences. Among its most popular offerings are the SUVs, which combine practicality, performance, and modern design. Two standout models in VW's SUV lineup are the Taos and the Tiguan, both of which have garnered significant attention for their unique features and capabilities. This article delves into a detailed comparison of these two models, helping potential buyers make an informed decision based on their specific requirements.
The VW Taos, introduced as a compact SUV, is designed for urban drivers seeking efficiency and agility.
Whether you're looking for a fuel-efficient daily commuter or a spacious family vehicle, understanding the nuances of these two SUVs will help you determine which one aligns best with your lifestyle. From engine performance to interior comfort, this comparison covers all the essential aspects to consider before making a purchase.
Volkswagen's SUV lineup includes the Taos and Tiguan, both of which offer distinct advantages depending on the buyer's needs. The Taos is a compact SUV that prioritizes fuel efficiency and maneuverability, making it perfect for city driving. The Tiguan, meanwhile, is a midsize SUV with more interior space and towing capacity, suited for families or those who need extra room. Both models come with VW's renowned build quality, advanced safety features, and modern infotainment systems, but they differ in several key areas.
Performance and Engine Specifications
The VW Taos is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It comes with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) options, with the latter providing better traction in adverse weather conditions. The Taos is known for its impressive fuel economy, achieving up to 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with FWD.
The Tiguan, in contrast, features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with FWD but offers AWD as an option. While the Tiguan's fuel efficiency is slightly lower than the Taos, it compensates with greater power and towing capacity, making it better suited for long trips or hauling heavier loads.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Taos offers a comfortable interior with seating for five passengers. Its compact size makes it easy to park and navigate through tight spaces, but it does sacrifice some cargo room compared to the Tiguan. The Taos provides 27.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 65.9 cubic feet when the seats are folded down.
The Tiguan, however, boasts a more spacious interior, with seating for up to seven passengers in its three-row configuration. It offers 12 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 33 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 73.5 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. This makes the Tiguan a better choice for larger families or those who frequently transport bulky items.
Technology and Safety Features
Both the Taos and Tiguan come equipped with VW's latest technology, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims offer additional features such as navigation, wireless charging, and premium audio systems.
Safety is a priority for VW, and both models include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Tiguan, however, offers more advanced options such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, which are available on higher trims.
Pricing and Trims
The Taos is the more affordable option, with a starting price of around $24,000 for the base S trim. The Tiguan starts at approximately $27,000 for the base S trim, with higher trims reaching upwards of $38,000. Both models offer a range of trim levels, allowing buyers to choose the features that best suit their budget and preferences.
Comparison Table: Taos vs Tiguan
| Feature | VW Taos | VW Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder | 2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 158 HP | 184 HP |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 221 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (FWD) | 28 mpg city / 36 mpg highway | 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 (with third row) |
| Cargo Space (max) | 65.9 cu ft | 73.5 cu ft |
| Starting Price | $24,000 | $27,000 |
For more information, visit the official Volkswagen website: www.vw.com.
The content provided on our blog site traverses numerous categories, offering readers valuable and practical information. Readers can use the editorial team’s research and data to gain more insights into their topics of interest. However, they are requested not to treat the articles as conclusive. The website team cannot be held responsible for differences in data or inaccuracies found across other platforms. Please also note that the site might also miss out on various schemes and offers available that the readers may find more beneficial than the ones we cover.