The 2024 Volkswagen Taos is Volkswagen’s entry-level SUV, and it offers space with a flair of style, performance, and driving fun that has made it very popular since its launch. As Volkswagen's most accessible SUV, it combines bold exterior design, a refined interior, and advanced technology to provide a compelling package for modern drivers while delivering exceptional value. You may have noticed a lot of Taos models on the road in and around Toronto, and here’s what the person behind the wheel is loving about his or her Volkswagen SUV.
1. IQ.DRIVE Driver Assistance Technology
IQ.DRIVE represents Volkswagen’s commitment to safety and driver convenience, offering a suite of advanced features that elevate the driving experience in the Taos. This system, now standard across all trims, includes Travel Assist for semi-automated driving from 0 to 150 km/h, integrating Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist for easier highway driving. Front Assist provides Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring, alerting drivers to potential hazards and intervening when necessary. The Active Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Traffic Alert enhance situational awareness, especially in urban driving conditions. Emergency Assist, which intervenes in cases of driver incapacitation, is a testament to Volkswagen’s focus on safety. These systems utilize a combination of front and rear radar, a front camera, and several ultrasound sensors to provide comprehensive coverage around the vehicle, ensuring a safer, more confident driving experience.
2. Dynamic Powertrain Options
The 1.5-litre TSI engine gives Taos owners more power under their right foot than any other small SUV, offering a robust 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is notable for its use of a modified version of the Miller cycle and its high compression ratio, which contribute to its impressive fuel economy. The engine incorporates advanced features like APS-coated cylinder liners, a map-controlled cooling module, and Variable Turbine Geometry (VTG) turbocharging—the first of its kind in North American production. These innovations ensure a blend of low-speed torque and excellent fuel efficiency. Additionally, the engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission for front-wheel-drive models and a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission for 4Motion all-wheel drive models, providing smooth and responsive power delivery. The inclusion of a Sport mode in the front-wheel-drive variant further enhances the driving experience, allowing for more dynamic handling and acceleration.
3. Versatile and Spacious Interior
The 2024 Volkswagen Taos may be compact, but it nevertheless impresses with its surprisingly spacious interior and cargo area. The Taos is one of the most spacious models in its class, offering 2,818 litres of passenger space along with generous cargo capacity. Owners enjoy 790 litres of luggage space behind the second-row seats, expanding to 1,866 litres with the seats folded. One of the most discerning features of the new Taos is the headroom offered up front, which is perfect for taller drivers. The rear legroom is also quite impressive and will not only meet but exceed the expectations of families who need space for a set of child seats or room for their teens.
4. Innovative Infotainment and Connectivity
Featuring the latest VW infotainment system with an 8-inch glass-covered display in Comfortline and Highline models, the Taos provides a seamless connected experience. Wireless App-Connect, wireless charging for compatible devices, and multiple USB-C ports ensure constant connectivity and convenience. The inclusion of SiriusXM with 360L enhances the audio entertainment experience, offering a wide range of content and personalized recommendations.
5. Sophisticated Volkswagen Digital Cockpit
All Taos models come standard with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, presenting a fully digital and customizable instrument cluster. Not many models offer this feature in this segment, let alone as standard equipment. The base Volkswagen Digital Cockpit measures 8 inches while Comfortline and Highline models offer a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro system. This digital instrument cluster offers various views and options, including full-screen navigation, enhancing the overall experience on every drive.
6. Distinctive Exterior Styling
The Taos boasts a bold and dynamic exterior characterized by a sculpted hood, wide three-bar grille, and LED lighting signature. Its design language mirrors that of its larger siblings, like the Atlas Cross Sport, with a blend of German-designed refinement and sportiness while maintaining a distinct identity. The availability of multiple colours and various wheel designs allows owners to drive a small SUV that stands out on the road.
7. Advanced 4Motion All-Wheel Drive System
The availability of Volkswagen’s 4Motion with Active Control all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. This system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear wheels, adapting to road conditions to optimize performance and safety. If you see a Taos owner with a smile on their face even in the middle of a snowstorm, the 4Motion AWD system probably explains why.
8. Efficient and Responsive Driving Modes
The Taos features a Driving Mode Selection on AWD models, offering "Normal," "Sport," and "Individual" modes. These modes allow drivers to customize the vehicle’s steering, throttle response, and other performance characteristics to suit their driving style or current road conditions, enhancing the overall driving experience.
9. Car-Net Services
Car-Net is a comprehensive suite of services that brings connectivity and convenience to Taos owners. Through the myVW mobile app, owners can remotely control various aspects of their vehicle, such as start/stop, door lock/unlock, and even honking the horn. Multiple connected features are also there to help if needed with services, including Emergency Assistance, Information Assistance, Automatic Crash Notification, Anti-Theft Alert, and Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance. These features provide peace of mind and enhance the overall safety of the vehicle.
10. Exceptional Warranty and Maintenance Program
Volkswagen’s comprehensive warranty and maintenance program is a significant advantage for Taos owners. The bumper-to-bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty covers four years or 80,000 kilometres, providing peace of mind and, more importantly, longer coverage than other options on the market. Additionally, the Powertrain is covered for 5 years or 100,000 kilometres, and owners also benefit from 4-year or 80,000-kilometre Roadside Assistance.
The 2024 Volkswagen Taos stands out in the compact SUV segment for its blend of style, performance, and value. From its advanced driver assistance features and versatile powertrain options to its sophisticated infotainment system and distinctive styling, the Taos is designed to meet the diverse needs of modern drivers. With its comprehensive warranty and maintenance program as an added benefit, the Taos is a different kind of entry-level sport utility vehicle that requires no compromise.
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