2025 Volkswagen Taos Vs. Volkswagen Tiguan Comparison

Volkswagen Taos vs. Volkswagen Tiguan Specs

Both the Volkswagen Taos vs. Tiguan are classified as compact SUVs by the EPA, but there are many differences between these two vehicles. The new VW Taos is smaller and nimbler, providing a cozier fit for five passengers compared to the larger Tiguan. Where the Tiguan offers 40.2 inches of rear-row legroom,³ the Taos prioritizes front-row comfort with 40.7 inches of headroom.

Additionally, the Taos arrives with a 1.5-liter engine that can be paired with FWD or 4MOTION all-wheel drive with a comprehensive eight-speed automatic transmission. In contrast, the new VW Tiguan is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that can be configured with standard front-wheel drive or available 4MOTION AWD for increased traction.

The fuel efficiency of the VW Taos vs. Tiguan shows the former in a favorable light due to the smaller size of the SUV and its engine. The VW Taos achieves an EPA-estimated 28/36/31 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)¹ with the front-wheel-drive configuration. As of writing, we do not have the EPA-estimated MPG specs of the larger VW Tiguan. However, it is expected to be more fuel-efficient than last year, which delivered a slightly lower EPA-estimated 24/31/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)⁴ with the same drivetrain. Both SUVs will ensure every drop of gas is spent efficiently, reducing your carbon footprint without electrification.

When it comes to towing, there's a big difference. The Volkswagen Taos is not recommended for towing any size load. However, the Volkswagen Tiguan towing capacity of 1,500 pounds² – or 1,800 pounds² with 4MOTION AWD – offers flexibility for bringing along small trailers, camping equipment, or small watercraft.

The VW Tiguan specs show a more powerful SUV overall, but the VW Taos specs paint a picture of a compact, fuel-efficient option that offers excellent performance for city commutes and weekend fun. See how both perform by visiting us at DARCARS Volkswagen Fairfax for back-to-back test drives.

2025 Taos vs. Tiguan Size Comparison

A VW Taos vs. Tiguan size comparison reveals the most obvious difference between these two vehicles. When you visit our showroom, you'll find that the VW Taos dimensions and cargo space are smaller – as you would expect due to its smaller size. The Taos is 175.9 inches long, while the larger Tiguan measures 184.4 inches³ – shorter than last year, thanks to the renewed focus on two-row comfort.

When you step inside the Taos, there is a maximum seating capacity of five passengers, and you can access up to 65.9 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are lowered. While we do not have specs for 2025 yet, 2024 two-row Tiguan models sported 73.4 cubic feet with the back seats folded down. We expect the 2025 Tiguan to keep or exceed that spaciousness.

Both the Taos and Tiguan are excellent choices for families wanting easy commutes with more utility. However, as your family grows and you see yourself needing extra rear-row legroom,³ the dimensions of the VW Tiguan may be more comfortable.

VW Tiguan vs. Taos Features and Technology

Aside from the Taos vs. Tiguan size, both SUVs offer multiple trims, with each providing an array of unique features and technology.

The options for the VW Taos are the S, SE, SE Black, and SEL. This lineup comes packed with standard and available features like cloth, CloudTex, or leather seating surfaces, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, ambient interior lighting, a sunroof, a six-speaker sound system, and an 8-inch touchscreen multimedia display. Customization remains key to the exterior of the Taos; its Volkswagen colors include statement-makers like Bright Moss Green and prestigious yet subtle shades like Deep Black Pearl.

The Volkswagen Tiguan trims include the S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and SEL R-Line. This suite was revolutionized for 2025, featuring larger screens, wireless charging, a seven-speaker sound system, and more convenient power-source access in the cargo area. Available features, such as the "Atmospheres" sound and light configurations, the Head-Up Display, or the Harman Kardon® 12-speaker sound array, create a luxury-ready cabin for you to enjoy.

Both SUVs are equipped with intuitive and driver-friendly tech to keep you and your passengers connected and safe on the road. For instance, the Taos has an 8-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit to keep track of your vital information. The Tiguan raises the bar with a 12.9-inch central console and 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Both come with exceptional safety features, like Adaptive Cruise Control, to give you and your family peace of mind on the road.

Volkswagen Taos vs. Volkswagen Tiguan Reviews

Regarding consumer ratings, the VW Taos and VW Tiguan have similar scores, depending on different categories. According to J.D. Power, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos scores 82 out of 100⁵ for its resale value, and the 2025 VW Tiguan scores 83 out of 100 for the overall driving experience.⁶ Learn more about the quality and reliability of these models by visiting our dealership today, where our team is happy to go into more detail about your favorite trim.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the Taos different from the Tiguan?

The Volkswagen Taos is a smaller SUV than the VW Tiguan when you compare their exterior dimensions. The Taos has the S, SE, SE Black, and SEL trim levels. The Tiguan offers a different trim lineup, including the S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and SEL R-Line, as well as a bevy of brand-new features for its 2025 redesign, like standard wireless charging and genuine wooden accents.

Is the VW Tiguan a luxury car?

Although Volkswagen isn't considered a luxury brand, the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan brings many upgraded features to the showroom. For example, it now has standard wireless phone charging and a 12.9-inch touchscreen display. Move up the trim levels for impressive amenities like a Head-Up Display, the "Atmospheres" interior ambiance modes, three-zone Climatronic Touch climate control, and heated rear seats.

What are the updates for the 2025 Tiguan?

The 2025 Tiguan revolutionizes the field with an available 15-inch central touchscreen. Through this console, you'll be able to access "Atmospheres," an automated system that combines ambient lighting and audio that lets you custom-craft your ambiance. The engine now produces 201 horsepower, letting you glide with ease. And new features, from standard wireless charging to a Head-Up Display, bring the Tiguan into further luxury.

Which is bigger, the Volkswagen Taos or Tiguan?

The VW Tiguan is larger than the Taos. The VW Taos is designed as a subcompact SUV, reaching 175.9 inches in length – perfect for smaller families. The VW Tiguan is a compact model, at 184.4 inches in length, and thus has more expansive legroom for second-row passengers.³ While we don't yet have specifics, the 2024 two-row Tiguan has better maximum cargo dimensions.

Which SUV has better fuel economy?

While we do not yet have exact fuel economy numbers for the 2025 Tiguan, the 2025 Taos uses its size as a subcompact SUV to reach impressive fuel numbers. At an EPA-estimated 28/36/31 MPG,¹ the subcompact SUV does an excellent job saving you on fuel as you cruise through the streets. We expect the Tiguan to reach similar heights with its 2025 redesign.

Does the Tiguan have more features than the Taos?

Yes, thanks to its 2025 facelift, the VW Tiguan has some advantages over the Taos. This includes standard elements like the two-zone automatic climate control, wireless phone charging, and a 12.9-inch infotainment display. The Taos also lacks some of the new and improved Tiguan features, like the Head-Up Display. However, many available Taos features, like the 8-inch display with navigation, are perfect for urban driving.

Featured Customer Reviews for VW Taos Vs. VW Tiguan

Bebe Path

03/11/2024

David at the front desk was the BEST, providing the information I needed to help finalize my decision and purchase! A great new team; I am glad my experiences there was a great one! THANKS, Joseph and Bianca, for taking the time to make it awesome!!! I LOVE MY NEW TAOS, not gonna lie, my baby will be deeply missed, Bye-bye, my baby Jetta, it was an incredible 11 years!

Anna Mitchell

01/11/2025

I recently went with my mom to purchase a new Tiguan. We worked with John Williams as our salesman. He was absolutely wonderful to work with! He taught my mom every single thing about the new car and took the time to really make sure she understood everything. He was very professional, honest, and answered all of her questions. Sometimes buying a car can be stressful and not the greatest experience, but this was actually a fun experience, and we couldn’t recommend John more! If we could give him more than 5 stars, we would. John, if you’re reading this, thank you SO much!!!

¹28 city/36 highway mpg (2025 Taos S FWD, 1.5-liter four-cylinder, eight-speed automatic). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.

²Maximum tow rating when equipped with 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and factory-installed towing hitch. Vehicle load, other accessories, and options may reduce maximum towing capacity. See vehicle Owner's Manual for details.

³Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/volkswagen/tiguan/2-0t-s-fwd/specs

⁴24 city/31 highway mpg (2024 Tiguan S FWD 2.0-liter four-cylinder, eight-speed automatic transmission). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.

⁵Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/volkswagen/taos

⁶Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/volkswagen/tiguan