The Volkswagen Tiguan and Taos represent two distinct approaches to the SUV formula, each with its unique design language. The Tiguan, now in its third generation, has grown larger than its predecessor and features a more commanding presence with a bold front fascia, sleek LED light bars, and available 20-inch wheels. Its hexagonal grille and sculpted body lines create a premium aesthetic that appeals to those seeking sophistication.
Meanwhile, the Taos embraces a more youthful design philosophy with its refreshed styling. The updated grille and newly available illuminated VW badges give it a modern look, while additional colour options in shades of blue, green, and gray expand personalization possibilities. The compact dimensions of the Taos make it ideal for urban environments without sacrificing style.
Under the hood, these two SUVs offer distinctly different powertrains. The Tiguan comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-four engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers responsive acceleration and confident highway passing power. The Tiguan also offers 4MOTION all-wheel drive across its lineup, providing enhanced traction in challenging weather conditions.
The Taos features a revised 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that now produces 174 horsepower, up from 158 in previous models. This boost in power helps the Taos achieve 0-60 mph acceleration times of 7.4 seconds with all-wheel drive and 7.6 seconds with front-wheel drive. All Taos models now come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous seven-speed dual-clutch automatic on AWD variants.
Fuel economy is a crucial consideration for many SUV buyers. The Tiguan achieves respectable efficiency ratings with estimates of 10.5 L/100 km in city driving, 7.8 L/100 km on the highway, and a combined rating of 9.3 L/100 km.
The smaller and lighter Taos has an advantage in this department, with its efficient 1.5-litre turbocharged engine contributing to a combined fuel economy rating of approximately 8.4 L/100 km (28 MPG), making it a more economical option for daily commuting.
Interior space is where these two SUVs show significant differences. The larger Tiguan offers more overall passenger room and cargo capacity. The Tiguan features power-adjustable massaging seats in higher trims, a gear selector relocated to the steering column to free up center console space, and 60/40 split second-row seats. The Tiguan remains one of the few compact crossovers that can accommodate an optional third row of seating.
The Taos, despite its smaller exterior dimensions, maximizes interior space impressively. It offers generous front legroom of 42.1 inches (107 cm) and rear legroom of 38.0 inches (96.5 cm). Cargo capacity ranges from 24.9-27.9 inches (63.2-70.9 cm) with seats up and 60.2-65.9 inches (152.9-167.4 cm) with seats down. The new model features a revised interior with an updated dashboard design that incorporates contrasting colour panels to break up the previously monotone appearance.
Technology is a highlight in both vehicles, but with different approaches. The Tiguan showcases the latest Volkswagen tech with an available 15.0-inch infotainment touchscreen that serves as the command center for climate and entertainment functions. A digital gauge cluster is available for the driver, and LED mood lighting is integrated throughout the cabin.
The Taos comes standard with an 8.0-inch touchscreen featuring wireless smartphone mirroring capabilities. Higher trims offer a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, while lower trims utilize an 8.0-inch display. The Taos also features the IQ.Drive suite of safety technology standard across all trim levels, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Both SUVs provide 4MOTION all-wheel drive systems, but with some differences in implementation. The Tiguan comes standard with all-wheel drive across its lineup, making it ready for all conditions right from the base model. Its system has electronically controlled twin-valve shock absorbers that work with the Volkswagen Vehicle Dynamics Manager for optimized handling.
The Taos offers 4MOTION as an option on most trim levels, giving buyers the flexibility to choose between front-wheel drive for better efficiency or all-wheel drive for enhanced traction in challenging conditions. The system provides confident handling and stability in various driving situations.
1. The Tiguan features fully automatic remote parking that you can control via a smartphone app.
2. The Taos has undergone a significant power increase of 16 horsepower compared to previous models.
3. The Tiguan seats are ergonomically designed to reduce stress and spinal injury during long drives.
4. The Taos beats many competitors in its class for second-row space despite its compact exterior dimensions.
5. Both vehicles feature illuminated VW badges as part of their exterior lighting signature.
Which model is better suited for urban driving?
The Taos is better suited for urban environments due to its more compact dimensions, making it easier to maneuver and park in tight city spaces while still offering surprising interior room.
Can the Tiguan accommodate more passengers than the Taos?
Yes, it can be configured with an optional third row of seating to accommodate up to seven passengers, while the smaller SUV is strictly a five-passenger vehicle.
Which model has better cargo capacity?
The Tiguan offers more overall cargo space than the Taos, making it better suited for families or those who regularly need to transport larger items.
Do both models offer all-wheel drive?
Yes, both the Tiguan and Taos offer the Volkswagen 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, though it's standard on all Tiguan trims and optional on most Taos trims.
Which model is more fuel-efficient?
The Taos is more fuel-efficient than the Tiguan due to its smaller size and engine, making it a better choice for those prioritizing lower fuel consumption.
Do both models come with the same safety features?
While both offer comprehensive safety suites, the Taos now includes the IQ.Drive safety package standard on all trim levels, which includes features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance.
Which model has a more advanced infotainment system?
The Tiguan offers a more advanced infotainment system with an available 15.0-inch touchscreen, compared to the Taos standard 8.0-inch screen.
Are both models built on the same platform?
No, while both are Volkswagen SUVs, the Tiguan uses the newer MQB Evo platform, while the Taos utilizes a version of the MQB architecture tailored for smaller vehicles.
Which model has more powerful engine options?
The Tiguan has a more powerful standard engine with its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder compared to the Taos 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
Which model would be better for off-road driving?
While neither is designed primarily for off-roading, the standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance of the Tiguan give it a slight advantage for light off-road duties and challenging weather conditions.
