2025 VW Taos Gets a Facelift: A Comprehensive Look at the Refreshed Compact SUV

Volkswagen is going launched its 2025 VW Taos in the Facelift version. Volkswagen has long been known for its robust and reliable vehicles, combining German engineering with practical design.

One of its most popular compact SUVs, the VW Taos, has received a notable facelift for 2025. Since its debut in 2022, the Taos has quickly gained a reputation as a solid choice for buyers seeking a small but versatile SUV.

The 2025 refresh promises to build on that success by enhancing both style and technology while maintaining its affordability.

This article will take a deep dive into what’s new with the 2025 VW Taos, from its exterior updates to tech improvements and performance tweaks. We’ll also explore how these changes position the Taos in the increasingly competitive compact SUV market.

A Fresh Look: Exterior Changes

The most obvious updates to the 2025 VW Taos are on the exterior. Volkswagen has given the Taos a sharper, more modern look that aligns with the brand’s evolving design language.

Redesigned Front Fascia: The front fascia now features a more aggressive, angular design. The grille has been widened and streamlined, paired with newly designed LED headlights that give the front end a more commanding presence on the road.

New Bumper Design: The front and rear bumpers have also been redesigned, contributing to a more athletic appearance. The rear bumper, in particular, has been reshaped to accommodate larger exhaust outlets, adding a sporty touch to the SUV’s aesthetic.

Updated Wheel Options: The 2025 VW Taos introduces new alloy wheel designs, ranging from 17-inch to 19-inch options depending on the trim level. These new wheels feature a more aggressive and bold look, contributing to the SUV’s refreshed image.

New Paint Options: Volkswagen has added new color options to the Taos lineup, including vibrant hues like “Crimson Red Metallic” and “Atlantic Blue,” allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles with more contemporary and eye-catching finishes.

These exterior changes are designed to appeal to a broader audience, particularly younger buyers looking for an SUV with both functionality and style.

Interior Updates: Comfort Meets Technology

While the exterior of the Taos has received a significant facelift, Volkswagen has not neglected the interior. The 2025 model offers enhanced comfort and technology, making the cabin more inviting and tech-savvy.

Improved Materials: Volkswagen has upgraded the interior materials for a more premium feel. Higher trim levels now feature soft-touch plastics, leatherette, and even leather upholstery, providing a more upscale experience for drivers and passengers alike.

Digital Cockpit Plus: One of the standout updates inside the 2025 VW Taos is the enhanced
Digital Cockpit Plus. This 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster is now standard on all trims, offering customizable displays, navigation integration, and real-time driving information. The crisp resolution and user-friendly interface elevate the driving experience.

Infotainment System: The 2025 Taos comes equipped with the latest MIB3 infotainment system, which includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen with improved responsiveness. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard across all trims, along with integrated navigation, voice control, and multi-device Bluetooth connectivity.

Enhanced Safety Features: The IQ.Drive suite of driver-assistance features has been expanded for 2025. Standard features now include lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims also come with automatic parking assistance and a 360-degree camera for easier maneuvering in tight spaces.

These interior updates are designed to increase both comfort and convenience, making the 2025 VW Taos more competitive in a segment that increasingly values technology.

Performance Tweaks: Subtle but Noticeable

The 2025 VW Taos retains its existing 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, which produces 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission for front-wheel-drive models and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic for all-wheel-drive variants.

Engine Refinements: While the engine remains the same, Volkswagen has made some minor refinements to improve fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The engine now features improved fuel injection technology, which helps the Taos achieve better miles per gallon (MPG) ratings—up to 28 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway for front-wheel-drive models.

Improved Handling: VW engineers have also tweaked the suspension for 2025, providing a smoother ride without sacrificing the SUV’s sporty handling. The steering system has been recalibrated for better responsiveness, particularly in all-wheel-drive models, where the 4Motion AWD system delivers improved traction and stability in adverse weather conditions.

These subtle performance enhancements ensure that the 2025 VW Taos continues to offer a well-rounded driving experience, balancing fuel economy with driving pleasure.

Pricing and Trim Levels: 2025 VW Taos

The 2025 VW Taos comes in three main trim levels: S, SE, and SEL, each offering a distinct set of features.

Taos S: The base model starts at around $25,000 and includes essentials like the 8-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and the full IQ.Drive safety suite. The Digital Cockpit Plus is also standard at this level, making the entry-level Taos feel surprisingly well-equipped.

Taos SE: Stepping up to the SE trim, which starts at approximately $28,000, adds more luxurious features such as upgraded upholstery, heated front seats, and a larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen. Keyless entry and remote start are also included.

Taos SEL: The top-of-the-line SEL trim, starting around $33,000, is where the Taos really shines. This model adds a panoramic sunroof, premium leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and more advanced safety features, including adaptive headlights and park assist.

Volkswagen has managed to maintain the Taos’ competitive pricing, ensuring that it remains an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers while offering enough variety in trim levels to appeal to those seeking more luxury.

Competitors and Market Positioning

The compact SUV segment is one of the most competitive in the automotive market, and the 2025 VW Taos faces stiff competition from models like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and Hyundai Kona. However, the Taos stands out for several reasons:

Spacious Interior: The Taos boasts one of the roomiest interiors in its class, offering more cargo space and rear legroom than many of its rivals. This makes it an excellent choice for families or those who need a versatile vehicle for both city driving and weekend getaways.
Fuel Efficiency: With its improved engine technology and competitive fuel economy ratings, the Taos offers an edge for buyers prioritizing efficiency.
Standard Technology: The inclusion of the Digital Cockpit Plus and wireless smartphone integration as standard features gives the Taos an advantage in terms of tech, especially at its price point.

While competitors may offer more performance-oriented options or slightly more luxurious materials at the higher trim levels, the 2025 VW Taos strikes an excellent balance between price, features, and practicality, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV market.

Final Thoughts: The 2025 VW Taos Gets a Deserving Facelift

The 2025 VW Taos refresh brings just the right amount of updates to keep the compact SUV competitive in an ever-evolving market. Its fresh design, improved interior tech, and subtle performance tweaks all contribute to making it a more well-rounded option for buyers. Whether you’re looking for a daily commuter, a family-friendly vehicle, or a stylish compact SUV, the 2025 Taos delivers on multiple fronts.

Volkswagen’s ability to maintain its attractive pricing while enhancing key features ensures that the Taos will continue to be a popular choice in the compact SUV segment for years to come.