Spacious SUVs don’t need to be bulky, and the 2023 Volkswagen Taos proves it beyond doubt. Here’s what you need to know about Volkswagen’s take on the subcompact, extra-small SUV segment.
Notable Changes From The Previous Year
There aren’t many new features to this lineup. The Driving Mode Selection is standard for all models equipped with 4Motion. New standard features include Bluetooth connectivity and a 12-volt power outlet in the luggage compartment (4Motion only). The flagship model has a new dynamic roadside display.
Trim Comparison Chart
| Trims | Infotainment features | Seating |
| Trendline | 6.5-inch touchscreen display | Cloth |
| Comfortline | 8.5-inch touchscreen display | Leatherette |
| Highline | 10.25-inch configurable cluster | Leather |
Performance Specs
All models have a 1.5-litre TSI engine, but there are two options for transmission: an eight-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic and a seven-speed automatic DSG with Tiptronic 4MOTION. The first option comes on a FWD drivetrain, while the latter has an AWD drivetrain.
It delivers 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque capacity. Fuel efficiency ranges between 8.4 L/100 km and 9.5 L/100 km in the city. Highway performance stays between 6.6 L/100 km and 7.4 L/100 km. The FWD drivetrain is more efficient than the AWD option. However, the 4MOTION AWD is more suitable for adverse weather conditions and rugged terrains.
Design Elements
The Trendline comes with manual air conditioning, but the upper trims have a Climatronic dual-zone electronic air conditioning system. Heated front seats are available across the lineup, while the Highline adds ventilated front seats. The Highline also has ambient LED lighting with ten colours. The Comfortline adds Titanium Cool decorative inserts to its interior design.
The Trendline has two options for wheels, depending on its drivetrain. FWD models come with 17-inch Lupin alloy wheels, and AWD options have 18-inch Kentucky alloy wheels. LED headlights, tail lights, and DRL lights are available for all models. The Comfortline has rain-sensing wipers, silver roof rails, privacy glass, and body-colour exterior mirrors.
The Comfortline and Highline have standard panoramic sunroofs, though this feature is only standard for the Highline. The Highline has exclusive LED headlights with an adaptive front-line system.
Technology And Safety Features
All models have smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and an 8-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit cluster. The Comfortline includes SiriusXM satellite radio, Volkswagen Car-Net, an emergency call service, voice control, and remote start.
The Highline is the only model with a BeatsAudio premium sound system, six speakers and a subwoofer. Trendline and Highline have regular four and six-speaker audio systems, respectively.
The 2023 Taos has a long list of safety features, most of which are standard across the lineup. They include cruise control, a rearview camera, a hill hold assist, electronic stability control, tire pressure monitoring, and airbags around the vehicle.
The Comfortline has added adaptive cruise control, emergency, lane, and light assistance. The Highline has a park distance control and a dynamic roadside sign display.
Book A Test Drive
Book a test drive today at Progressive Auto Sales and ride your new Taos across Sarnia! Learn more about prices and conditions.