While the brand has been moving more upscale, Volkswagen still offers a number of inexpensive model options in their lineup…like this affordable Taos, which made its debut in 2022. But for 2025, Volkswagen has made some major improvements to this entry-level crossover and we were recently invited out to San Antonio, Texas to get some time behind the wheel for a first drive.

The first changes you’ll notice are on the exterior, with updated front and rear bumpers. Details like standard projector headlights and this connected taillight with an illuminated badge have the Taos punching above its weight class. Higher trims, like the loaded SEL, see a light bar.

The SE Black trim returns from last year and includes a black roof, mirrors, door handles, and wheels.

Plus, there’s a few new color options this year, including this Bright Moss Green.

Under the hood remains the same 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine but it’s now tuned for more power, up 16 horses for a total of 174 horsepower. Torque figures stay at 184 lb-ft.

To improve the driving experience, Taos models equipped with 4Motion all-wheel drive now have a traditional 8-speed automatic which replaces the 7-speed DSG. Fuel economy is also improved, adding 1 more mile-per-gallon across the board from last year. Front wheel-drive models remain equipped with the 8-speed auto with no impact to EPA figures.

“The additional power is absolutely welcome here in the refreshed house, as well as the new eight speed automatic that the four motion all wheel drive models get. The shifts are very smooth when you want to put down some power. And while there’s no additional torque, there’s still plenty of power to be able to get in and out of normal traffic situations, whether on the highway or just on the street.”

Inside, 2025 sees an updated dash design with a floating 8-inch central display along with touch climate controls that replace the old knob design. VW says they focused a lot on fit and finish here, with better materials like leatherette on the door panels instead of so much hard plastic.

A heated steering wheel comes standard on front-drive Taos but all-wheel drive models are all equipped with an all-weather package for heated front seats, mirrors, and washer nozzles.

Moving up the lineup can get you wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting and a 10.25-inch digital cockpit. Optional is a nicely sized panoramic glass roof.

Worth mentioning is the front drive’s impressive 27.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the 2nd row. 4Motion models see 3 cubic feet less.

The 2025 Volkswagen Taos is arriving in dealers now. Pricing starts at $26,420 after destination for the base S. Add another $1,700 for all-wheel drive. And top-of-the-line SEL starts at $36,120.

Stay tuned as we’ll have the 2025 Taos back home in Maryland soon for some full instrumented testing, so until then, keep it locked right here on MotorWeek!