VW Taos Trim Levels Comparison Made Easy

Photo Credit: Volkswagen

The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive, but the Volkswagen Taos stands out as a brilliantly engineered option that punches well above its weight class. Delivering a sporty yet refined driving experience, this clever crossover comes equipped with a spirited 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine pumping out 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Beyond its efficient performance, it offers a surprisingly expansive cabin, advanced digital displays as standard equipment, and the reassuring protection of the IQ.DRIVE driver-assistance safety suite. Whether navigating daily commutes or mapping out a weekend road trip, this versatile vehicle seamlessly blends modern utility with iconic German engineering.

To help you find the absolute best configuration for your lifestyle, utilizing a VW Taos trim levels comparison is the best place to start.

Volkswagen Taos Trim Levels Comparison Chart

Taos Trim Levels Explained

While every model shares the same potent turbocharged powertrain, the differences across the lineup lie in styling, premium convenience tech, and interior comfort materials. Front-wheel drive (FWD) comes standard on the lower three models, paired with an efficient eight-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel drive is readily available for enhanced traction. As you climb from the entry-tier model up to the top-tier luxury edition, the cabin undergoes a dramatic transformation with larger screens, upscale seating surfaces, and eye-catching lighting arrays designed to suit different budgets and tastes.

Taos S

The entry-level Taos S is a value-packed starter that proves a base model can feel incredibly premium. It comes standard with crucial modern tech, keeping drivers connected and safe without stretching their wallet.

• VW Digital Cockpit: Combines an 8-inch digital instrument cluster with an 8-inch floating infotainment screen.
• IQ.DRIVE Suite: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Blind Spot Monitor, and Lane Assist.
• Cold Weather Comfort: Features a standard heated, leatherette-wrapped multi-function steering wheel.
• Exterior Lighting: Outfitted with standard automatic LED projector headlights and a sleek illuminated rear VW emblem.

Taos SE

Stepping up to the Taos SE lands you squarely in the lineup’s sweet spot, introducing highly sought-after comfort features and effortless tech integrations that elevate daily driving.

• Smart Connectivity: Upgrades to wireless App-Connect (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) alongside a wireless device charging pad.
• Climatronic Controls: Features dual-zone automatic climate control so passengers can customize their environment.
• Interior Seating: Upgrades the cabin with distinctive two-tone CloudTex and cloth upholstery and heated front seats.
• Convenience Updates: Includes a remote engine starter and front/rear Park Distance Control sensors.

Taos SE Black

For drivers eager to stand out, the Taos SE Black trades subtle details for a dark, aggressive, and incredibly sporty presence. This trim layer builds directly off the SE platform but injects bold, blacked-out cosmetic upgrades inside and out. It catches the eye instantly with a distinctive black roof, black mirror caps, matching black roof rails, a black rear spoiler, and unique 18-inch black alloy wheels. To complete the premium night-rider vibe, it also adds a striking integrated LED light bar across the front grille and a power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof that fills the moody cabin with natural sunlight.

Taos SEL

The top-of-the-line Taos SEL acts as the ultimate luxury tier, delivering near-luxury appointments without the luxury price premium. It comes standard with the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, swapping out the basic layout for a more sophisticated driving feel. Drivers are treated to an upgraded 10.25-inch configurable VW Digital Cockpit Pro, integrated navigation with voice control, and a rich BeatsAudio premium sound system. The interior is lavishly wrapped in genuine leather seating surfaces, complemented by ventilated front seats to battle hot summer days, and multi-color customizable ambient interior lighting to perfectly match your mood.

Taos Dimensions

Don’t let the “compact” classification fool you; the engineering of this SUV maximizes every square inch. The vehicle sits on a 105.9-inch wheelbase with an overall exterior length of 175.9 inches and a width of 72.5 inches, creating a nimble footprint that is remarkably easy to park. Inside, passengers enjoy a massive 99.5 cubic feet of total passenger volume, highlighting a class-leading 37.9 inches of rear legroom. Storage is equally impressive: FWD models yield a massive 27.9 cubic feet of trunk space that expands to 65.9 cubic feet with the 60/40-split rear seats folded flat.

FAQ

Which Taos trim level comes with all-wheel drive?

The 4MOTION AWD system comes standard on the top-tier Taos SEL. However, it can be optionally added to the S, SE, and SE Black trims.

Does the VW Taos have a sunroof?

Yes. A power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof comes standard on the SE Black and SEL trims, and it is available as an optional add-on for the SE trim.

How much cargo space does the Taos have?

Front-wheel-drive models feature 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 65.9 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume. Choosing AWD alters the rear suspension slightly, offering 24.9 cubic feet of standard trunk space and 60.2 cubic feet maximum.

Ready to see how these models compare in person? You can easily wrap up your VW Taos trim levels comparison at Volkswagen Brandon by dropping by the dealership showroom to browse our available inventory and test drive your favorite trim today!