It’s been just a few years since we first had the Volkswagen’s Taos in our driveway. Targeted at those who find the idea of a compact crossover SUV more appealing than that of a sporty hatchback, the Taos had managed to fulfill its role remarkably well. However, its initial launch was marred by a few performance glitches that prevented it from ascending to the upper echelons of our rankings. Now, for 2025, we’re greeted by an updated version that, from what we can see, has successfully ironed out many of those early quirks.

A Playful Refresh

The 2025 Taos has undergone a transformation that, while refreshing, may have sacrificed some of its maturity in the process. Where the previous version sported a baby Tiguan look, the latest model leans more towards cute and playful. The front end has received an update, featuring a new headlight and grille design adorned with standard LED headlights and indicators. On the higher trim levels, the daytime running lights create a seamless look that flows through the grille. At the rear, the taillights have also been refreshed, now flaunting standard LEDs that even the entry-level S model boasts. This setup includes a continuous light bar that illuminates the VW badging. Why, you may wonder? Well, we’re not entirely sure either, but it certainly adds a touch of flair to this playful endeavor.

The interior of the 2025 Taos has received a noteworthy upgrade, showcasing a new dashboard that gives the infotainment system a semi-floating appearance and an overall upscale vibe. Our entry-level S trim model may be considered basic—at least by today’s standards—but it still manages to impress. The seats are clad in cloth, yet vibrant color accents add a welcome pop to the otherwise straightforward design. The door panels boast a soft-touch leatherette material, while the dashboard features a color-coordinated hard surface designed to mimic leather.

LIKES: Competent performance, quality chassis refinement & control, well equipped for the price

Even in this base S trim, the infotainment screen has been upgraded to a larger 8-inch display, featuring wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a digital cockpit instrument cluster as standard. For those who desire a bit more grandeur, higher trims offer an even more substantial 10.3-inch touchscreen display.

Fixed the Quirks

Our primary concern with the previous Taos revolved around its powertrain—specifically, the rather lackluster communication between the transmission and the engine. Fortunately, Volkswagen has addressed this issue with the latest iteration. While the Taos retains its turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, power has been increased from 158 to a more satisfying 174 horsepower. And even starts up with a charmingly aggressive gurgle, as if it’s trying to channel its inner baby GTI.

The previous version wasn’t a poor driving experience; it just had a tendency toward overly aggressive throttle mapping and responsiveness. Now, despite sticking with the same 8-speed automatic transmission, the mapping has been refined. This results in a smoother response and much-improved communication between the turbocharger and the transmission. Feeling like the Taos has finally found its groove, its shift points glide effortlessly in all directions, allowing you to drive without feeling like you’re wrestling with the system.

The Good Stuff Goes Unchanged

It’s no surprise that Volkswagen chose to keep the elements that made the Taos a joy to drive largely intact. The ride quality and body control remain excellent, providing commendable handling and stability. The steering delivers a satisfying level of effort, instilling a sense of confidence that makes it easy to navigate various driving conditions. There’s a solid feel to the chassis that exudes craftsmanship—it’s taut and well-constructed. While it may not be a GTI, it certainly has a playful spirit and isn’t afraid to be tossed around a bit.

DISLIKES: Couldn’t find any…

The VW’s biggest disadvantage versus its segment rivals is its price premium. A starting figure of $26,420 puts it a couple grand or so above a base Nissan Kicks or a Chevy Trailblazer and about a thousand bucks above the Toyota Corolla Cross, and that’s before the $1700 upcharge for AWD (on every trim except the SEL, where it’s standard). Start piling on the options, and it gets weirder: The tippy-top Taos SEL asks $36,120, whereas none of the aforementioned vehicles have a trim that even crests the $30,000 mark. But the mid-tier SE is so well equipped that price-conscious buyers can still keep the Taos on their shopping list. As well they should—the 2025 updates make the Taos a solid little runabout.