Welcome back to the wonderful world of Volkswagen! Today, we're diving into the captivating and delightful Volkswagen Taos, the subcompact SUV crossover that's redefining practicality and fun on the road! With the feel of an SUV but efficiency of a sedan you won't want to miss this fun ride!
If you have any questions or just want to chat about cars, feel free to reach out to me, Lexie, at lexie@mankatomotors.com or (507) 344-6984, I would be more than happy to help you out!
The Perfect Size for the Perfect Ride!
The Volkswagen Taos is a gem in the realm of subcompact SUVs. It's small enough to navigate tight city streets but spacious enough to keep your passengers and cargo comfortable. Plus, it's more affordable than you might expect in the US market, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking for value without sacrificing the quality and comfort you expect from Volkswagen. I don't know about you, but I wouldn't want to sacrifice my comfort in a vehicle, especially if you live in an area where the weather has a mind of its own (Minnesota).
The Golf's Successor with a Twist
The Taos is often considered the spiritual successor to the beloved Golf, but don't think it's just a replacement. This newest addition to Volkswagen's Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) lineup packs a punch with its 1.5 L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. Yes, it’s gas-powered, but it's also incredibly efficient, boasting 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. With an MPG of 24/32 for AWD and 28/36 for FWD, the Taos is a thrifty traveler.
Technology and Performance: A Match Made in Heaven
Whether you prefer the 8-speed automatic transmission with Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or the 4MOTION 7-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) transmission with All-Wheel Drive (AWD), the Taos has you covered.
Did you know: The 4MOTION system smartly adjusts to road conditions, ensuring a smooth and safe ride, while the DSG combines the ease of an automatic with the precision of a manual.
One thing is for sure Volkswagen has you covered for convenience and entertainment for those long road trips! Built with a wireless charging pad (extremely convenient), Bluetooth connectivity, App-connect, and other fun and convenient features the Taos is a smart way to go.
A Name with an intriguing Heritage
Fun Fact: The Taos was named after the charming town of Taos, New Mexico, this vehicle definitely carries a legacy of adventure and practicality.
Did you know: John Muir, the legendary author of "How To Keep Your Volkswagen Alive: A Manual of Step-by-Step Procedures for the Compleat Idiot," once called Taos (the town) his home? That's right, the spirit of ingenuity and hands-on expertise is embedded in the very name of this car.
Global Connections of Volkswagens Taos
Interestingly, the Taos goes by a different name in China (first debuted in 2018) – the Tharu, reflecting its adaptability across cultures. The Tharu name is rooted in an ethnic group from southern Nepal and northern India, highlighting the vehicle's global appeal. During its development, the Taos was intriguingly known as "Project Tarek," hinting at its grand ambitions.
Did you know: thāru is thought to be derived from sthavir meaning follower of theravada buddhism. I personally would like to know how or who at Volkswagen thinks up their vehicle names.
Fun Fact: The Taos is closely related to the SEAT Ateca, Skoda Karoq, and the Jetta VS5 (chinese market only)
Built to Protect: Safety First
Safety is paramount in the Taos, featuring a robust safety cage, front and rear crumple zones, and the Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS). Additionally, the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System ensures that you're protected even in the event of a mishap.
Did you know: The Taos is also equipped with Volkswagen's IQ Drive! Giving you even more peace of mind while on the road. (I will dive into what exactly IQ Drive is in a later post so keep checking back!)
Trim Levels and Awards
The Taos seats five comfortably and comes in various trim levels: S, SE, the new-for-2024 SE Black (arriving towards the end of summer), and SEL. FWD is available on the S and SE trims only, although not seen as often in the Midwest…I blame the snow. Having options though gives you the flexibility in choosing the right configuration for your needs.
Fun Fact: The Taos has already earned accolades, including the Car and Driver Editors' Choice Award 2024 and recognition from Cars.com in 2023. MotorWeek also named it the Best Small Utility Vehicle in 2022, cementing its reputation as a top contender in its class. It will be fun to see how the Taos improves in the future!
Quick and Nimble
Did you know: Performance-wise, the Taos can reach a top speed of around 125 miles per hour and accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 7.5 seconds. Not too shabby for a subcompact SUV! (Please don't try this out on the open road…you will get in trouble for speeding)
So, whether you're navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Volkswagen Taos is your trusty companion, ready to tackle any adventure with style and efficiency.
For more details or to schedule a test drive, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me, Lexie, at lexie@mankatomotors.com or (507) 344-6984. Happy driving!
