My Thoughts Exactly: 2024 Volkswagen Taos

The last time we had a Volkswagen Taos, we were kind of “meh.” 

Let me explain…the idea of the Taos came at the right time as consumers were looking at smaller SUVs. Yet, we found that it was not at the level of effort we expected Volkswagen to execute. Perhaps it was the specification. The last – and only Taos – was a front-drive SE model. 

Things are different this time around. 

First off, the 2024 Taos we received was the top-of-the-line SEL model with 4MOTION all-wheel drive. That alone gives you much more in terms of features. Not that we appreciate lots of features, but some equipment is better experienced at its highest level. 

Two fundamental features that I wanted to see on the Taos. Importantly, that 4MOTION models get the seven-speed DSG transmission rather than the eight-speed automatic. If you have driven a number of Volkswagen models, you will know that the DSG does make a difference in terms of overall performance. 

That difference was felt by connecting the DSG and the 4MOTION system with the 158-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. DSGs love torque and this turbo delivers 184 pound-feet of it. The combined driveline should be right for the smaller Taos, right?

If you ask me, that was what I was looking for. 

Let’s call the driveline “spunky.” A lively combination that made scooting around the city and longer journeys a better experience. The Taos felt more than willing to get up to speed and maintain cruising without much intervention from the transmission. There was minimal turbo lag, which helped in making the driving experience a better one.

Part of its liveliness comes from its overall feel. The Taos felt lighter than some of its competitors. That is a huge advantage for some consumers. Then again, one must consider whether they want their SUV to be thud solid or light and lively – with or without a load of passengers or cargo. 

The driving experience starts from the most important seat in the house – the driver’s seat. Because of the driving tasks the Taos accomplished in my care, the seats were excellent. The SEL’s perforated leather seats were comfortable and supportive. On the longer stretches, I never felt fatigue. On shorter hops, the driver’s seat always provided a relaxing place to manage traffic jams and unyielding motorists from undue stress. 

One good thing about the Taos is its spacious cabin. Four adults can enjoy the same stress-free environment, along with up to 27.9 cubic feet of luggage or carry-out food. If you need more space for your latest IKEA run, fold down the rear seats to expand the cargo hold up to 65.9 cubic feet. 

The driver gets the best digital and analog experience Volkswagen offers. The 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster is clear to use and comprehend. It is a Volkswagen signature that enables you to either go minimalist with just a digital speedometer or to show you a more traditional layout. I prefer the latter. 

In a world full of large screens, the eight-inch Discover Media MiB3 infotainment screen is straight-forward and simple to use. I probable expect Volkswagen to install a tablet-like larger screen with the new generation format when the mid-cycle refresh comes out, but this is all you need to work with. It has smartphone mirroring and wireless phone charging, along with a couple of USB-C connections. Sound comes from a set of eight BeatsAudio speakers, which are pretty good in terms of sound reproduction.

Let me say that Volkswagen has their SUV design language down pat. They are handsome as they mix brand elements with purpose. The Taos is no exception. Yet, one should not dismiss this as an Atlas that had shrunk in the dryer. Yet, the front end is a giveaway as to which Volkswagen this truly is. Smaller? Yes. Distinctive. That, too. 

The upgrades the SEL receives from the other two trim levels came down to a set of 19-inch alloy wheels and an LED light strip on the grille. It still makes for a nice smaller SUV to tool around in. 

For 2024, Volkswagen offers three Taos trim levels. 4MOTION is available on all three, whereas the S and SE are also offered as front-drive models. Pricing starts from $23,995. This SEL 4MOTION tester arrived with a sticker price of $35,260. 

This time around, my experience with the Volkswagen Taos was a much better one. Not just because of the specification it offered. 

The point to all of this is the idea of necessity. Volkswagen offers an SUV for those looking for a smaller vehicle without compromising space. We often forget about the Taos because of some of the negative feedback it received. However, you can’t ignore it. Not anymore. 

It takes years for a vehicle to get to the point where production quality is improved enough for consumers to seriously consider buying one. This Taos felt better. Perhaps it is worth looking at when you’re shopping in the smaller SUV space. 

DISCLAIMER: Vehicle provided by Volkswagen of America – our opinions of our own.

All photos by Randy Stern