Auto Guide
2026 Volkswagen Taos
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Review and specifications

2026 Volkswagen Taos

The Volkswagen Taos small SUV slots beneath the Tiguan. The 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, coupled with a dual-clutch automatic transmission on AWD versions delivers uneven acceleration. There is a huge delay initially, followed by a burst of power, which makes it hard to drive smoothly. Front-wheel-drive versions get a conventional transmission and drive more smoothly. Handling is nimble and the ride is firm yet civilized. Shorter than the Tiguan, the Taos still has an enormous rear seat, but cargo space is smaller. Outward visibility is unobstructed. Upscale amenities, such as a digital instrument cluster and a panoramic roof are available. The IQ Drive suite of active safety features is not standard but available on every Taos trim, with FCW, AEB, BSW, and adaptive cruise control.

Market value
$24,300
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2026
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability 2/5
Data updated June 4, 2026

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
4-door SUV
Drive type
AWD
Transmission
Automatic, 8-speed
Category
Subcompact SUVs
Generation began
2022

Pricing

Current retail median
$24,300
Retail value range
$22,450 - $26,575
Original MSRP range
$26,500 - $35,900
Trade-in range
$21,070 - $25,545

Ratings

Road test score
82/100
Reliability
2/5

Fuel economy

EPA city
25 MPG
EPA highway
33 MPG
EPA combined
28 MPG
Tested city
17 MPG
Tested highway
37 MPG
Tested overall
26 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,520
Cruising range
370 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.5 sec
0-60 mph
9.5 sec
60-0 mph braking
130 ft
Avoidance speed
51 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
176 in
Width
73 in
Height
65 in
Wheelbase
106 in
Weight
3,530 lb
Maximum load
935 lb
Towing capacity
0 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
4 in
Front leg room
42 in
Rear head room
3.5 in
Rear leg room
31.5 in
Cargo volume
34.5 cu ft
Luggage
3+0+0

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
7/10
Greenhouse gas score
6/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Volkswagen

<p>Most Volkswagens are well-built, agile, fun-to-drive cars that feel slightly more premium than their competitors—although that advantage has been slipping. Its lineup is focused on SUVs, most of which have spacious, comfortable interiors and responsive driving dynamics. Its GTI hatchback is a rare balance of practicality and driving thrills. Most models, including their EVs, have excellent fit and finish. Brand-wide downsides include unintuitive controls and infotainment systems, and below-average reliability for new cars. Reliability for used VWs is midpack in the brand rankings.</p>

Vehicle ID: 38726 First published: December 4, 2025 Updated: June 4, 2026

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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