- VW has unveiled the refreshed Taos, featuring new lighting units and a more expressive face.
- The cabin has been updated with a redesigned dashboard and a larger infotainment system.
- Power is delivered by an improved 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, now producing 174 hp.
The Volkswagen Taos has been a hit with US consumers, selling around 60,000 units last year. This makes it the brand’s fourth-best-selling nameplate in America, and its top seller in Canada and Mexico. This trend is expected to continue, as the brand has unveiled a stylish new facelift.
However, the changes are more than skin deep as the compact crossover receives an upgraded interior and a more powerful engine. More on that in a moment as we’ll initially focus on the new look. The more upscale design is immediately apparent as the Taos adopts a slender grille, which is flanked by new LED headlights.
More: 2025 VW Jetta And Jetta GLI Get A Hollywood-Worthy Facelift
They’re joined by a more aggressive front bumper, which features a prominent intake. The model can also be equipped with an illuminated light bar that visually connects the headlights. The changes to the rear end are less notable, but designers added a full-width light bar. They’re joined by an illuminated Volkswagen emblem.
Rounding out the highlights are a revised color palette that includes three new hues known as Bright Moss Green, Monterey Blue Pearl, and Monument Gray. They’re joined by new 17-, 18- and 19-inch wheels.
New 8-Inch Infotainment System And Dashboard Design
Moving inside, the Taos benefits from a Jetta-like makeover that sees the crossover outfitted with a new dashboard and revised trim. A key highlight is the new 8-inch infotainment system, which replaces the previously standard 6.5-inch display and has a ‘floating’ design. It’s accompanied by a familiar 8-inch digital instrument cluster.
That’s pretty much the extent of the changes, but the facelifted Taos has improved sound damping, expanded availability of touch climate controls, and a new dark blue leather option on the range-topping SEL trim.
Speaking of equipment, the 2025 Taos comes standard with a suite of IQ.DRIVE assistance systems. They include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Front Assist, Travel Assist, and an Active Blind Spot Monitor. Buyers will also find Emergency Assist, Rear Traffic Alert, and Lane Assist.
More Power, No More DSG Gearbox
Power is provided by an upgraded 1.5-liter TSI four-cylinder engine, which has new fuel injectors, revised piston rings, and a modified turbo housing. They’re joined by a larger intercooler and a new gasoline particulate filter.
Thanks to the changes, the output climbs from 158 hp (118 kW / 160 PS) to 174 hp (130 kW / 176 PS). Besides being more powerful, an eight-speed automatic transmission is now standard on all models. It replaces the previous seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG in brand parlance), which was used on the 4Motion all-wheel drive variants.
The refreshed Taos will arrive at U.S. dealerships later this year and pricing will be announced closer to launch. However, it’ll likely cost slightly more than its predecessor which began at $23,995 before a $1,425 destination fee.
