2026 Volkswagen Taos

Crossover 5 seats 7 trims Budget SUVs Under $30,000

Starting MSRP

$26,500

to $35,900

About the 2026 Volkswagen Taos

The 2026 Volkswagen Taos stands ready to inject spirited fun into the compact crossover segment. Beneath its taut, modern lines churns a surprisingly punchy 1.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, delivering 174 horsepower and a robust 184 lb-ft of torque through an eager 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission. This powertrain pairing ensures that even maneuvering through urban canyons feels engaging, while the vehicle’s nimble dimensions—just 175.9 inches long—make parking a breeze. Drivers will appreciate the balanced capability offered across its seven available trims, especially when opting for the confident grip of the AWD versions, all while maintaining an impressive 31 MPG combined efficiency. The 2026 Volkswagen Taos blends German engineering refinement with an energetic daily drive.

Key Highlights

Efficient Turbo Power

The 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo engine provides 174 hp and achieves an excellent 31 MPG combined, proving spirited driving doesn't demand constant refueling.

Agile Footprint

Measuring only 175.9 inches in length, the 2026 Volkswagen Taos offers superior maneuverability compared to bulkier crossovers.

Spacious Rear Quarters

Rear passengers benefit from generous 37.9 inches of legroom, making the compact exterior deceivingly accommodating for four adults.

Broad Trim Selection

With seven trims available, including distinct S, SE, and SE Black editions with FWD or AWD choices, personalization within the 2026 Volkswagen Taos lineup is extensive.

Best For

Urban Explorers - Its compact 175.9-inch length and standard FWD configuration make the 2026 Volkswagen Taos supremely easy to pilot and park downtown.
Value-Conscious Drivers - With a starting price point around $26,500 and routine compatibility with regular unleaded fuel, the Taos balances performance with economy.
Active Singles/Couples - Offering 27.9 cubic feet of cargo space alongside 40.1 inches of front legroom ensures comfort and utility for weekend adventures.

Available Trims

Trim MSRP Drivetrain Horsepower MPG
S 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
$26,500 front wheel drive 174 hp 31 mpg
S 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
$28,200 all wheel drive 174 hp 28 mpg
SE 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
$29,260 front wheel drive 174 hp 31 mpg
SE 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
$30,960 all wheel drive 174 hp 28 mpg
SE Black 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
$31,510 front wheel drive 174 hp 31 mpg
SE Black 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
$33,210 all wheel drive 174 hp 28 mpg
SEL 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
$35,900 all wheel drive 174 hp 28 mpg
Specifications comparison table for 2026 Volkswagen Taos, 2026 Volkswagen Taos, 2026 Volkswagen Taos, 2026 Volkswagen Taos, 2026 Volkswagen Taos, 2026 Volkswagen Taos, 2026 Volkswagen Taos. Data includes dimensions, performance, fuel economy, and interior specifications. Green highlighting indicates best values, red indicates worst values.

Specifications Comparison

Click column headers to sort • Green = Best • Red = Worst

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Features Comparison

Feature
S 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
S 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
SE 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
SE 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
SE Black 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
SE Black 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
SEL 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
FeatureS 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)S 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)SE 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)SE 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)SE Black 4dr SUV (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)SE Black 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)SEL 4dr SUV AWD (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
Safety (32 features)
Adaptive Headlights
Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote)
Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)4-Wheel4-Wheel4-Wheel4-Wheel4-Wheel4-Wheel4-Wheel
Automatic Headlights
Blind Spot Monitor
Brake Assist
Cornering Lights
Daytime Running Lights
Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags
Electronic Stability Control
Engine Immobilizer
Front Head Airbags
Front Headrests2222222
Front Height Adjustable Headrests
Front Ventilated Disc Brakes
Headlight Delay-Off
LATCH System
LED Headlights
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Keeping Assist System
Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation
Post-Collision Safety System
Pre-Collision Safety System
Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Rear Door Child Safety Locks
Rear Head Airbags
Rear Headrests3333333
Rear Height Adjustable Headrests
Rear Solid Disc Brakes
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Traction Control System
Engine (9 features)
Base Engine Displacement1.5 L1.5 L1.5 L1.5 L1.5 L1.5 L1.5 L
Base Engine Typegasgasgasgasgasgasgas
Camshaft TypeDouble overhead cam (DOHC)Double overhead cam (DOHC)Double overhead cam (DOHC)Double overhead cam (DOHC)Double overhead cam (DOHC)Double overhead cam (DOHC)Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Fuel Injection Type
Horsepower174 hp @ 5500 rpm174 hp @ 5500 rpm174 hp @ 5500 rpm174 hp @ 5500 rpm174 hp @ 5500 rpm174 hp @ 5500 rpm174 hp @ 5500 rpm
Number of Cylindersinline 4inline 4inline 4inline 4inline 4inline 4inline 4
Number of Valves16161616161616
Torque184 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm184 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm184 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm184 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm184 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm184 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm184 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm
Variable Valve TimingVariableVariableVariableVariableVariableVariableVariable
Drive Train (4 features)
Center Differential TypeLimited SlipLimited SlipLimited SlipLimited Slip
Drivetrain Typefront wheel driveall wheel drivefront wheel driveall wheel drivefront wheel driveall wheel driveall wheel drive
Hill Descent Control
Transmission Type8-speed shiftable automatic8-speed shiftable automatic8-speed shiftable automatic8-speed shiftable automatic8-speed shiftable automatic8-speed shiftable automatic8-speed shiftable automatic
Fuel (5 features)
EPA Driving Range (City/Highway)369.6/475.2 mi.362.5/478.5 mi.369.6/475.2 mi.362.5/478.5 mi.369.6/475.2 mi.362.5/478.5 mi.362.5/478.5 mi.
EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway)28/36 MPG25/33 MPG28/36 MPG25/33 MPG28/36 MPG25/33 MPG25/33 MPG
EPA Fuel Economy (Combined)31 MPG28 MPG31 MPG28 MPG31 MPG28 MPG28 MPG
Fuel Tank Capacity13.2 gal.14.5 gal.13.2 gal.14.5 gal.13.2 gal.14.5 gal.14.5 gal.
Fuel Typeregular unleadedregular unleadedregular unleadedregular unleadedregular unleadedregular unleadedregular unleaded
Warranty (5 features)
Basic Warranty4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.
Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance2 yr./ 20000 mi.2 yr./ 20000 mi.2 yr./ 20000 mi.2 yr./ 20000 mi.2 yr./ 20000 mi.2 yr./ 20000 mi.2 yr./ 20000 mi.
Corrosion/Rust Warranty7 yr./ 100000 mi.7 yr./ 100000 mi.7 yr./ 100000 mi.7 yr./ 100000 mi.7 yr./ 100000 mi.7 yr./ 100000 mi.7 yr./ 100000 mi.
Drivetrain Warranty4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.4 yr./ 50000 mi.
Roadside Assistance3 yr./ 36000 mi.3 yr./ 36000 mi.3 yr./ 36000 mi.3 yr./ 36000 mi.3 yr./ 36000 mi.3 yr./ 36000 mi.3 yr./ 36000 mi.
Comfort & Convenience (23 features)
Adaptive Cruise Control
Audio Controls on Steering Wheel
Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
Cruise Control on Steering Wheel
Dual Vanity Mirrors
Dual Zone Climate Control
Electric Power Steering
Front Cupholders
Front Door Pockets
Front Parking Sensors
Front Seatback Storage
Heated Steering Wheel
Interior Air Filtration
Leatherette Steering Wheel
Push Button Start
Rear Cupholders
Rear Door Pockets
Rear Parking Sensors
Rear Ventilation Ducts
Rear View Camera
Single Zone Climate Control
Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
Wireless Charging Pad
In Car Entertainment (10 features)
AM/FM Stereo
Android Auto (Wireless)
Apple CarPlay (Wireless)
Infotainment Display8.0 in8.0 in8.0 in8.0 in8.0 in8.0 in8.0 in
Satellite Radio
Satellite Radio Trial Period3 months3 months3 months3 months3 months
Speaker System4466668
Subwoofer Count1
USB Port
USB Port with External Media Control
Power Feature (4 features)
Heated Mirrors
Keyless Entry
Moonroof Type1st Row Power Glass Extended1st Row Power Glass Extended1st Row Power Glass Extended
Remote Keyless Entry
Frontseats (18 features)
Driver Seat HeatingMulti-levelMulti-levelMulti-levelMulti-levelMulti-levelMulti-level
Driver Seat Height Adjustment
Driver Seat Lumbar SupportPowerPowerPowerPowerPower
Driver Seat Manual Adjustments6-way6-way
Driver Seat Power Adjustments8-way8-way8-way8-way8-way
Driver Seat Ventilation
Front Head Room40.7 in.40.7 in.40.7 in.40.7 in.39.5 in.39.5 in.39.5 in.
Front Hip Room53.9 in.53.9 in.53.9 in.53.9 in.53.9 in.53.9 in.53.9 in.
Front Leg Room40.1 in.40.1 in.40.1 in.40.1 in.40.1 in.40.1 in.40.1 in.
Front Seat Type: Bucket
Front Shoulder Room56.5 in.56.5 in.56.5 in.56.5 in.56.5 in.56.5 in.56.5 in.
Passenger Seat HeatingMulti-levelMulti-levelMulti-levelMulti-levelMulti-levelMulti-level
Passenger Seat Height Adjustment
Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments6-way6-way6-way6-way6-way6-way6-way
Passenger Seat Ventilation
Seat Material: Cloth
Seat Material: Leather
Seat Material: Leatherette/Cloth
Rearseats (7 features)
Folding Rear Seat Feature
Pass-Thru Center Armrest
Rear Head Room39.8 in.39.8 in.39.8 in.39.8 in.38.8 in.38.8 in.38.8 in.
Rear Hip Room45.4 in.45.4 in.45.4 in.45.4 in.45.4 in.45.4 in.45.4 in.
Rear Leg Room37.9 in.37.9 in.37.9 in.37.9 in.37.9 in.37.9 in.37.9 in.
Rear Shoulder Room55.2 in.55.2 in.55.2 in.55.2 in.55.2 in.55.2 in.55.2 in.
Split-Folding Rear Seatback
Tires and Wheels (6 features)
Spare Tire LocationInside MountedInside MountedInside MountedInside MountedInside MountedInside MountedInside Mounted
Spare Tire TypeTemporaryTemporaryTemporaryTemporaryTemporaryTemporaryTemporary
Tire Size215/55R H215/55R H215/50R18215/55R H215/50R18235/45R19235/45R19
Tire TypeAll SeasonAll SeasonAll SeasonAll SeasonAll SeasonAll SeasonAll Season
Wheel FinishPainted AlloyPainted AlloyPainted AlloyPainted AlloyPainted AlloyPainted AlloyPainted Alloy
Wheel Size17 x 7.0 in18 x 7.5 in18 x 7.0 in18 x 7.5 in18 x 7.0 in19 x 7.5 in19 x 7.5 in
Suspension (5 features)
Four-Wheel Independent Suspension
Front Stabilizer Bar
Front Suspension TypeIndependentIndependentIndependent
Rear Stabilizer Bar
Stabilizer Bar
Instrumentation (5 features)
Clock
Compass
External Temperature Display
Tachometer
Trip Computer
Measurements (15 features)
Angle of Approach17.5 degrees19.7 degrees17.5 degrees19.7 degrees17.5 degrees19.7 degrees19.7 degrees
Angle of Departure25.0 degrees25.8 degrees25.0 degrees25.8 degrees25.0 degrees25.8 degrees25.8 degrees
Cargo Capacity (Seats Up)27.9 cu.ft.24.9 cu.ft.27.9 cu.ft.24.9 cu.ft.27.9 cu.ft.24.9 cu.ft.24.9 cu.ft.
Country of Final AssemblyMexicoMexicoMexicoMexicoMexicoMexicoMexico
Curb Weight3201 lbs.3441 lbs.3201 lbs.3441 lbs.3201 lbs.3441 lbs.3441 lbs.
EPA Interior Volume127.4 cu.ft.124.4 cu.ft.127.4 cu.ft.124.4 cu.ft.124.6 cu.ft.121.6 cu.ft.121.6 cu.ft.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)4365 lbs.4608 lbs.4365 lbs.4608 lbs.4365 lbs.4608 lbs.4608 lbs.
Ground Clearance6.5 in.7.6 in.6.5 in.7.6 in.6.5 in.7.6 in.7.6 in.
Height64.5 in.65.1 in.64.5 in.65.1 in.64.5 in.65.1 in.65.1 in.
Length175.9 in.175.9 in.175.9 in.175.9 in.175.9 in.175.9 in.175.9 in.
Maximum Cargo Capacity65.9 cu.ft.60.2 cu.ft.65.9 cu.ft.60.2 cu.ft.65.9 cu.ft.60.2 cu.ft.60.2 cu.ft.
Maximum Payload937 lbs.937 lbs.937 lbs.937 lbs.937 lbs.937 lbs.937 lbs.
Turning Circle35.1 ft.34.8 ft.35.1 ft.34.8 ft.35.1 ft.34.8 ft.34.8 ft.
Wheelbase105.9 in.105.5 in.105.9 in.105.5 in.105.9 in.105.5 in.105.5 in.
Width (Without Mirrors)72.5 in.72.5 in.72.5 in.72.5 in.72.5 in.72.5 in.72.5 in.
Telematics (5 features)
Airbag Deployment Notification
Emergency Service
Roadside Assistance
Stolen Vehicle Tracking
Vehicle Alarm Notification

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fuel economy rating for the 2026 Volkswagen Taos?

The 2026 Volkswagen Taos boasts an impressive 31 MPG combined fuel economy rating. Drivers can expect 28 MPG in city driving and up to 36 MPG on the highway.

Does the 2026 Volkswagen Taos come standard with All-Wheel Drive?

No, All-Wheel Drive is optional; the base S and SE trims are available in front-wheel drive, though AWD versions are offered for enhanced traction.

How much power does the engine in the 2026 Volkswagen Taos generate?

The standard engine across all trims is a 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo that produces 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

What is the maximum cargo capacity inside the 2026 Volkswagen Taos?

The 2026 Volkswagen Taos provides 27.9 cubic feet of dedicated cargo capacity behind the rear seats for hauling gear and groceries.

What is the price range for the seven trims of the 2026 Volkswagen Taos?

The pricing for the seven available trims of the 2026 Volkswagen Taos spans from an affordable starting point near $26,500 up to the top trims retailing around $35,900.

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