Having a good idea on paper is one thing, but being able to turn it into something concrete that meets—and even exceeds—expectations is a whole different story. Nevertheless, the Taos proves that it can be done thanks to an excellent team of engineers and the collective expertise of the Volkswagen Group. This is important to understand, because the Taos doesn't just benefit from Volkswagen's strengths, but also from everything developed by the other brands within the same family, such as Audi, Porsche, and Lamborghini. All of this elevates the Volkswagen Taos to a level of excellence you simply won't find elsewhere in its segment.
The Taos is small, sure, but it's cleverly designed and impressively spacious. The interior fit and finish are very close to what you'd expect from Audi, and its driving experience is anything but ordinary. The German automaker's smallest SUV has received a significant update and keeps improving year after year, to the point where the current model is brushing up against excellence.
There are no major changes to the Taos lineup for 2026, which still consists of five versions. First, there's the Trendline model, starting at $32,893. It offers a solid list of standard equipment, including an 8-inch touchscreen and 17-inch wheels. If you want to add all-wheel drive, you can step up to the Trendline 4MOTION at $34,893. Next is the Comfortline version which, as the name suggests, adds features that primarily enhance comfort. You can choose it for $38,493, or $40,193 if you opt for the Black Edition package. Finally, the Highline model sits at the top of the lineup at $42,193, offering a panoramic roof, traffic sign recognition, and more.
The Volkswagen Taos is almost too luxurious and upscale for its class, yet its pricing sits right in the average range. In short, if it wasn't clear already, Volkswagen's small SUV clearly gives you more for your money than most of its competitors.
Rivals: Buick Envista, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Kia Niro, Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Mitsubishi RVR, Nissan Kicks, Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota Corolla Cross
The first thing that stands out when looking at the 2026 Volkswagen Taos is its design—it gives off an upscale and premium vibe. Volkswagen could slap Audi badges on it and fool more than a few people. In that sense, the styling of the small German SUV is a complete success. On top of that, the automaker offers a stylish color palette to go with it.
The interior of the 2026 Volkswagen Taos is also modern and comfortable. Technology is present at every level, and the cabin is surprisingly roomy for its category. I'm not usually a big fan of floating screens, but the one in the Taos is well-positioned, and the infotainment system is smooth and pleasant to use.
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos offers just one powertrain: a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Despite its modest displacement, it delivers 174 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. That's more than enough for a vehicle of the Taos' size. It's paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, one of the most efficient in the industry. As for fuel economy, it ranges between 7.4 and 8.4 L/100 km depending on the version you choose, which is excellent.
The Taos lineup is definitely missing a sportier version and a hybrid powertrain.
It's an elegant, refined vehicle packed with advanced technology. The Taos looks good and lacks nothing in terms of equipment.
The Volkswagen Taos proves that you don't need a large vehicle or a luxury model to enjoy a premium driving experience.
Unlike many of its rivals, the Volkswagen Taos isn't just considered an entry point into the brand's SUV lineup. It's a model you choose not for its price, but for its size and the experience it delivers.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
