The Volkswagen Taos has become a popular choice among US consumers, with sales reaching approximately 60,000 units last year. This makes it the brand’s fourth-best-selling vehicle in the United States and its top-selling model in both Canada and Mexico. As the demand for this compact crossover continues to grow, Volkswagen has introduced a refreshed version that features both aesthetic and performance improvements, signaling the brand's intention to maintain its strong market position.
The facelifted Taos boasts a more refined and modern exterior design. One of the first noticeable changes is the sleek, slender grille, which is flanked by newly designed LED headlights. These updates give the front end a more upscale and aggressive look, especially with the addition of a bold front bumper featuring a prominent air intake. For an extra touch of modern styling, buyers can opt for an illuminated light bar that visually connects the headlights, enhancing the vehicle’s nighttime presence. At the rear, the design changes are more subtle but still effective, with a new full-width light bar and an illuminated Volkswagen logo. To complete the exterior enhancements, Volkswagen has introduced three new colors—Bright Moss Green, Monterey Blue Pearl, and Monument Gray—along with new wheel designs available in 17-, 18-, and 19-inch sizes.
Inside, the 2025 Taos benefits from a significant interior upgrade, drawing inspiration from the Volkswagen Jetta. The cabin now features a redesigned dashboard and updated trim materials, giving it a more premium feel. One of the standout additions is the new 8-inch floating infotainment system, which replaces the previously standard 6.5-inch display. This larger screen is accompanied by an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, offering a more tech-forward and user-friendly interface for drivers.
Safety and driver assistance systems are also a key focus in the updated Taos. The 2025 model comes standard with Volkswagen's IQ.DRIVE suite, which includes a variety of advanced safety features. These include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go functionality, Front Assist, Travel Assist, and an Active Blind Spot Monitor. Other features like Emergency Assist, Rear Traffic Alert, and Lane Assist further enhance the vehicle’s safety profile, making it well-equipped for a range of driving conditions.
In terms of performance, the 2025 Taos sees an upgrade under the hood. It is now powered by a revised 1.5-liter TSI four-cylinder engine. This updated engine includes new fuel injectors, improved piston rings, and a modified turbo housing. Additionally, a larger intercooler and a new gasoline particulate filter have been introduced. These changes boost the engine’s output from 158 horsepower to 174 horsepower, providing a noticeable increase in power and performance. Another significant update is the new standard eight-speed automatic transmission, which replaces the previous seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox found in the 4Motion all-wheel-drive versions. This new transmission is expected to improve overall driving dynamics and offer smoother shifts.
The refreshed Volkswagen Taos is set to arrive at U.S. dealerships later this year. While official pricing has not yet been announced, it is expected to be slightly higher than the previous model, which started at $23,995 before adding a $1,425 destination fee. With its updated design, improved engine, and enhanced technology features, the 2025 Taos is well-positioned to continue its success in the competitive compact crossover market.