Volkswagen Taos Vs. Tiguan: Compare Specs & Features

Volkswagen Taos vs Tiguan

If you want to upgrade to a new VW compact SUV, reading our Volkswagen Taos vs. Tiguan comparison is an excellent starting point. We’ll show you how these two stylish and power-packed models stack against each other to help you make a confident choice for you and your family. Make everyday driving and weekend journeys a treat in Atlanta, GA, with either of these well-equipped SUVs. When you’re ready to see either model, visit us at Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Chamblee for a tour and test drive.

Volkswagen Tiguan vs. Volkswagen Taos Specifications

To start this Volkswagen Taos vs. Tiguan review, we can compare the Taos vs. Tiguan specs. The Volkswagen Taos is a compact five-seater SUV powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, while 4MOTION AWD is available.

The VW Tiguan is also considered a compact vehicle, but the difference lies in that it offers a seven-seat configuration in FWD models, whereas AWD models have five seats. It also has a higher-performing turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque.

In their base models, the Taos pulls ahead with higher fuel economy at 28/36/31 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),1 but the Tiguan wins in the war for towing capability since it can tow up to 1,500 pounds.2 The Taos, being a smaller model, is not rated for towing.

So, if fuel efficiency and five seats are what you desire in an SUV, the VW Taos is a practical choice. But if increased performance, towing strength, and more seating options are what you need, opt for the Tiguan.

2024 Volkswagen Taos S 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan S
Engine 1.5L turbo 4-cyl 2.0L turbo 4-cyl
Horsepower 158 184
Torque 184 lb-ft 221 lb-ft
EPA-Est. MPG (Cty/Hwy/Comb) 28/36/311 24/31/271
Towing Capacity N/A 1,500 lbs2
Seating Capacity 5 7
Trim Levels – S
– SE
– SE Black
– SEL
– S
– SE
– SE R-Line Black
– SEL R-Line
Standard Safety & Driver-Assistant Features – Adaptive Cruise Control
– Forward Collision Warning
– Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring
– Travel Assist
– Lane Assist
– Emergency Assist
– Rain-sensing front windshield wipers
– Forward Collision Warning
– Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring
– Travel Assist
– Lane Assist
– Emergency Assist
– Adaptive Cruise Control
– Rain-sensing front windshield wipers
Standard Technology – 6.5-inch touch-screen display
– 8.0-inch instrument display
– Push-button start
– Bluetooth® capability
– 6.5-inch touch-screen display
– 8-inch instrument display
– Push-button start
– Bluetooth® capability
Standard Interior Features – CloudTex and cloth upholstery
– Leather-wrapped gearshift knob
– Leatherette-wrapped and heated steering wheel
– Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
– Cloth seating surfaces
– Heated front seats
– Leatherette-wrapped steering wheel

VW Tiguan vs. VW Taos Trim Levels

VW Tiguan vs. VW Taos Trim Levels

Let’s continue our VW Taos vs. Tiguan toss-up by looking at their available trim levels. The Volkswagen Taos lineup includes the following:

  • S
  • SE
  • SE Black
  • SEL

The VW Tiguan trims have similar names; however, the last two in the lineup are characterized by R-Line exclusive accents:

  • S
  • SE
  • SE R-Line Black
  • SEL R-Line

When comparing the trim selection of both models, you’ll realize that each provides impressive technology and amenities as you start at the base level and go up. The Taos S comes with LED taillights, IQ.DRIVE technology, and the VW Digital Cockpit. Something you’ll notice is that the VW Tiguan comes at a slightly higher starting price than that of the Taos, but for good reason – the base Tiguan model comes with heated front seats, LED daytime running lights, stain-resistant seating surfaces, and, as mentioned a third row. Some of these features may be available on upper trims within the Taos lineup; however, there will only be seating for up to five passengers.

VW Taos vs. VW Tiguan Interior Cargo Space

VW Taos vs. VW Tiguan Interior Cargo Space

One way the two vehicles in our Volkswagen Taos vs. Tiguan comparison are similar is their maximum cargo space when their rear rows are lowered. Although the new VW Taos for sale only has two rows, it boasts a similar maximum cargo volume to the three-row Tiguan. When you fold the rear row in the Taos, you’ll have access to 65.9 cubic feet of cargo room, while folding the second and third rows in the Tiguan provides 65.3 cubic feet of cargo space.

As for standard cargo room, the Tiguan offers 12 cubic feet behind its third row. Lower just the third row, and you’ll open the space to 33 cubic feet. The Taos has 27.9 cubic feet of standard cargo space behind the second row.

Volkswagen Taos vs. VW Tiguan Comfort

Volkswagen Taos vs. VW Tiguan Comfort

The interior of both Volkswagen models is thoughtfully crafted, offering drivers a comfortable and intuitive drive whenever they hop inside. We’ll begin with a Volkswagen Taos review of its cabin. Inside this compact SUV, you can find standard features like a heated leatherette-wrapped steering wheel, a manually adjustable driver’s seat, and CloudTex and cloth seating. Upper trims have heated front seats, two-zone climate control, and dual-zone climate control.

As for an interior Volkswagen Tiguan review, the VW Tiguan starts strong with standard heated front seats, second-row air vents, and a height-adjustable passenger seat. Later in the lineup, you can get two-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, and a power passenger seat.

VW Taos vs. VW Tiguan Infotainment & Technology

VW Taos vs. VW Tiguan Infotainment & Technology

Put on your favorite playlists, podcasts, or serene soundscapes via smartphone integration that comes standard on both compact SUVs. The VW Taos and Tiguan entry-level models also have a standard 6.5-inch touch-screen display that can be upgraded to an 8.0-inch option on higher trims. An 8.0-inch VW Digital Cockpit display also comes as a basic helpful driving feature, which can be enhanced to a 10.25-inch configurable screen on higher-end models.

No matter which model you choose, you can enjoy a high-quality audio listening experience with available sound systems like a BeatsAudio® system on the Taos or the Fender® premium audio system with a subwoofer on the Tiguan. Visit us today to experiment and compare these 2024 Volkswagen Taos vs. Tiguan entertainment features and tech.

Volkswagen Tiguan vs. Volkswagen Taos Safety Features

Volkswagen Tiguan vs. Volkswagen Taos Safety Features

Every member of our Taos and new VW Tiguan inventory comes with reassurance and peace of mind via signature IQ.DRIVE technology and other safety features, like a rearview camera and an Intelligent Crash Response System. IQ.DRIVE includes systems like Travel Assist, an Active Blind Spot Monitor, Emergency Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims for both models open up new realms of safety by adding Dynamic Road Sign Display and Park Distance Control.

Explore Both Models in Our Volkswagen SUV Comparison in Atlanta, GA

If you’re convinced it’s time to become road royalty in one of these compact SUVs, we’ll help you achieve this goal at a competitive price. Generally low monthly payments are available when you lease a new Volkswagen Tiguan or Volkswagen Taos, but you can also apply for financing if you’d rather own your new SUV.

Of course, if, after you’ve reviewed the Taos vs. Tiguan features you’ve decided neither is the right fit, you could look at our other popular VW models, such as our nimble and elegant sedans. Our VW Jetta vs. Golf comparison can give you further insight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do the interior space and cargo capacity compare between the Taos and Tiguan?

The VW Tiguan offers three rows, while the Taos comes with two. In three-row Tiguan models, there are 12 cubic feet of cargo load space behind the last row, while the Taos has 27.9 cubic feet behind its second row. Interestingly, they have similar maximum cargo volume when the rear seats are folded: 65.9 cubic feet in the Taos and 65.3 cubic feet in the Tiguan.

What are the engine specifications for the Volkswagen Taos and Tiguan?

Due to its larger size, the Tiguan is configured with a bigger engine. This model is motivated by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The more nimble two-row Volkswagen Taos operates with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.

What are the trim levels for the Volkswagen Taos and Tiguan?

The VW Taos and Tiguan offer four trims, each equipped with cutting-edge technology and convenient amenities. The VW Tiguan is available in the following versions: S, SE, SE R-Line Black, and SEL R-Line. The VW Taos comes in the S, SE, SE Black, and SEL trims. Both trim lineups offer unique styling and more advanced features as you go from the base model to the highest trim.



1EPA estimates only. Your results will vary.

2Maximum tow rating when equipped with 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine and factory-installed towing hitch. Vehicle load, other accessories, and options may reduce maximum towing capacity. See vehicle Owner’s Manual for details.

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