Just got my Tao S FWD last week and I love it. Small vehicle that’s an absolute joy to drive. The only one available had the VW IQ drive which includes the adaptive cruise control which works like a dream. Compared to my wife’s Kona, the Taos is faster and smoother, though gets a bit less gas mileage. Overall I love this car.
I’m buying Mazda CX30 premium instead. My sister just bought one. Paid $29,500. Everything in it. Leather seat, Bose stereo, Navigation, Sun Roof, Power Left Gate…and 187 HP.
A lot of people who buy the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR are older folks who want a simple, practical and reliable car. I'm honestly not sure there will be a lot of cross shopping VWs for these folks. Though I personally love the way this VW looks, it would definitely by on my shopping list.
This competes with the Jeep Compass, not the Renegade. For USA it comes from Mexico (Puebla) that replaced the production line of the Golf. For South America is coming from Argentina (Pacheco), with fwd 1.4tsi + tipronic at first and 2.0Tsi + DSG AWD later on. That last version should be really interesting.
I don't know the market there very well, but here in Argentina, where the Taos is manufactured, a step is positioned above those they named. To compete with those named there is the T-cross
I just bought myself a 2023 Taos 2 weeks ago. I work at a VW, so I figured why not. I got the Comfortline *i'm in Canada, so this is the SE in US*. Since I work at VW, I got it for dealer cost, plus I had $3000 positive on my trade, so I had $8000 off. The only issue I have is, the DSG is not smooth like people say it is. I think there is a software update for it. Besides the DSG issue, i'm overall extremely happy with it. It has more than enough for what I need in a vehicle.
I prefer the Kona and Seltos. True cost of ownership with the Hyundai and Kia is likely much less too, especially if you keep the vehicle for a long time.
Although the conventional view is that Taos is another competitor in the sub-compact SUV space, AKA "hatchbacks on stilts", a more illuminating description is that it's the replacement for the basic VW Golf that's now discontinued in the US and unlikely to return. Obviously not suitable for anything more challenging that a gravel road, it's no Jeep Compass or Subaru CrossTrek. Nor with 6.5" of ground clearance and no "protective" cladding is it meant to be. Instead, it's a roomy small car designed to be a versatile daily driver and a trip vehicle for a couple or a small family. Exactly the sort of missions that the Golf has satisfied for years. Seems to check all the right boxes.
I am seriously considering the fully loaded AWD SE trim of the Taos (above SEL for price and missing features). Would you consider ponying up for the SEL? Are there any other competitors you prefer over this, whether it be a subcompact or a compact?
"It's still high enough to get over snow, I guess" .............. insert "highly questionable" expression HAHAHAHA! Loved that! Nathan you rule! hahahaha! Loved this vid! Well done!
That’s what we have (2013) and we were hoping VW would go back to this size SUV. Our SEL handles well and has good acceleration. The ride is stiff however, but it doesn’t bother us. If they get the Taos to be a bit quicker and tighten up the suspension, then we will be happy to get one when our Tiguan is past its prime.
At 11:05 was the transmission in D or S? If it’s like my VW then D shifts more like an econ mode and S is more responsive on twisty roads. Trade off is worse MPG in S. And of course you could always use manual mode.
Seat Ateca is much more aggressive and beautiful with softer materials at least that is my impression. It would be fun to see you reviewing my seat mii 1.0 and try to fit inside.
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After my five VW’s, I know they make solid vehicles. I wish they had more power but they are as solid as you can get.
I think I might get one. This is like the first generation Tiguan, which I missed. I had both, and 1st generation was more fun to drive. Second generation I leased one, and returned it. It was good, but lost the original sportiness and German-ness feeling compared to the first generation model.
@@michaelv6870 I'm not sure your room temperature IQ understands what humor is. Figured you'd have a sense of humor as you like the absolute shitshows VW produces.
Diehard VW lover but this Taos is a stake to the heart. The Jetta is a Corolla, the Golf is gone, the Passat died a slow and shameful death, no Touareg or ID3, and now this crapola. I can't with VW anymore...I might as well just rollover and buy a KIA. If the GTI or R ever leave NA, I will be done buying new VWs.
This car with some electrification or even an ev of this size would be really nice. I think there’s definitely room for a smaller vehicle than the ID.4
VW bring the pain? Not likely, engineered obsolescence is still a thing in these German products. There is a huge number of people who won't even consider this thing as an option.
I am considering this car and only way for me is AWD. This might be one of the few ways to get German engineering at a somewhat affordable price. Sure the engine is a little weak, interior quality could be better, no power lift gate and it could potentially have poor German reliability, but it does have more features than most subcompact or compact SUVs. All digital display, wireless android auto/apple car play, wireless charging and panormoc sunroof. Not sure what other car comes with more for price. If you know what would compete, let me know.
I'm glad we don't have the terribly laggy infotainment like the ID.4 or the glass black steering wheel switches like the Tiguan. This will sell much better than the Tiguan
How many SUV'S does one manufacturer need. I'm a current VW Jetta owner and I personally think VW needs less SUV models and bring something to compete with the Honda Ridgeline
Uh yea....the HR-V is better in every way, if cargo space isn't as important get the CX-30 which drives better and looks nicer. HR-V seats fold flat, more ground clearance, game over!
Nice looking compact suv... Looks a lot like the UK/European regular 5-seater Tiguan.... To bad european/uk versions only auto option is dsg instead of Torque-converter transmission..... Dsg are rubbish on hills and start/stop traffic...
Nice to see another 'Tweener' sub-compact (leans more compact than sub-compact in numbers) . . . most of them are a little smallish for me and I'm not a big fan of any of the compacts (except maybe the new Tucson . . . we'll see). p.s.: come on, Nathan . . . ya have to compare it to the Seltos in numbers! It is the most similar S-C CUV to the Taos!
I'm so excited to see how many electrical issues and common transmission and engine issues.... good luck with being reliable... because it isn't.... just watch them have an insane amount of problems 😂😂👌👌 just remember this comment
It might be a good CUV, but I am sorry, but this vehicle is simply overpriced. For the SEL AWD, I could get a Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve, which has a much better interior, more space, and a far better engine. If it wants to compete with a Honda HR-V, then the price needs to drop across the board by 15 to 20%.
Honestly, it's basically the same price as an ID4 once you put in the 13k QC rebate... And they had the audacity to kill the 21k+ Golf which is extremely popular and sells just as much as the Jetta in QC
@@vladsaghin7644 Your quite right the ID4 is $45000 + HST . It’s just every new vehicle is getting very expensive . Why would you get rid of a $21,000 Golf ?!
I had a 2018 RAV4. The ride, comfort, solidness, fit and finish of the VW surpassed Toyota in every possible way. VW uses Toyota transmissions so it’ll be extremely reliable.
Why did vw need to reinvent the wheel, as it were? They could have saved a bundle and sold just as many vehicles if,they simply gave the n. American market the european short wheelbase tiguan or the t-roc. As well, where did tfl get those elevated mpg ratings? All other sources are saying 26 city, 32 hwy, 28 combined
Dsg is slow to shift which is not impressive and certainly not live up to the hype of dsg. Which one is better? dsg or Aisin 8 speed from Tiguan/Atlas. If dsg is not quick enough, then what is the point? Not to mention, lack of Electronic differential lock XDS. Not impressed for the price with 1.5 TSI that sounds terrible lag compared to my Jetta 1.4 tsi with Aisin 6 speed.
I would be interested in a comparison to the Golf. Is this basically the same size as a Golf, but lifted an inch or two? I have had two rabbits/golfs over the years and they are great for suburban practicality and road tripping. Also, low profile tires do not make sense on anything calling itself sport/utility. Off road would chew up low profile tires and a lot of American roads have so many potholes low profile tires do not make sense. One of the info/graphic screens you flashed make it look like if you want AWD you get stuck with crappy 19", low profile set up. That is ludicrous.
Why do people complain about fake exhausts when the entire front end of some cars are HIDEOUS? Lexus/Toyota and BMW should be ashamed for trolling their buyers like that. The gigantic and idiotic grills aren't just ugly; they are FAKE.
Volkswagen would never outlast the durability of Honda & Toyota. Unless they should stop their planned obsolescence business model & over engineered things that often breaks & cost a fortune to repair. Don't be deceived people.
I never seen any vw breakdown on highway or street. But honda or nissan. Yes alot. Most popular car lay on the street all time i saw is kia and hyundai
This is the only sub compact crossover that I actually like. Good job VW!👌🏽🔥🔥🔥
Its acc really good
Ditto!
I love mine
Sounds like what it needs is the 2.0T GTI engine.
Just got my Tao S FWD last week and I love it. Small vehicle that’s an absolute joy to drive. The only one available had the VW IQ drive which includes the adaptive cruise control which works like a dream. Compared to my wife’s Kona, the Taos is faster and smoother, though gets a bit less gas mileage. Overall I love this car.
Are you still enjoying the car? Has the gas mileage improved now that yours is broken in?
I got an AWD SE with IQ drive for my wife, I try to steal it when I can lol It's really a great car!
Nice car, excited to see them on the road. Just wish they made more active safety systems standard like the Asian competition.
Pricing is insane... Taos SE is only $150 cheaper than a Tiguan SE, which offers more power, more space and standard adaptive cruise control.
I have 2022 VW Tiguan SE ~ ❤️ it. I don’t even use my phone charger😁
I’m buying Mazda CX30 premium instead. My sister just bought one. Paid $29,500. Everything in it. Leather seat, Bose stereo, Navigation, Sun Roof, Power Left Gate…and 187 HP.
I just very recently purchased the ‘2023 VW Taos SE ( had the Tiguan) this Taos is a perfect size for just myself. 👌🏼
The Taos is uncannily similar in size and configurations to the previous generation Tiguan. Love it!
A lot of people who buy the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR are older folks who want a simple, practical and reliable car. I'm honestly not sure there will be a lot of cross shopping VWs for these folks. Though I personally love the way this VW looks, it would definitely by on my shopping list.
This competes with the Jeep Compass, not the Renegade. For USA it comes from Mexico (Puebla) that replaced the production line of the Golf. For South America is coming from Argentina (Pacheco), with fwd 1.4tsi + tipronic at first and 2.0Tsi + DSG AWD later on. That last version should be really interesting.
Great job. Always enjoy Nathan's analysis. Nice little vehicle too.
I don't know the market there very well, but here in Argentina, where the Taos is manufactured, a step is positioned above those they named. To compete with those named there is the T-cross
I would love to see this in a head to head comparison with the Hyundai Kona AWD Turbo.
The VW would win 😂
Thanks Nathan for the review. Yes, it's the next vehicle for me, lol. I love the looks, just can't decide on which color blue or the red.
I just bought myself a 2023 Taos 2 weeks ago. I work at a VW, so I figured why not. I got the Comfortline *i'm in Canada, so this is the SE in US*. Since I work at VW, I got it for dealer cost, plus I had $3000 positive on my trade, so I had $8000 off. The only issue I have is, the DSG is not smooth like people say it is. I think there is a software update for it. Besides the DSG issue, i'm overall extremely happy with it. It has more than enough for what I need in a vehicle.
If it's 2wd it doesn't have dsg. Only 4wd does.
I was really confused as to why the Taos was coming to America. In Europe we have a short wheelbase Tiguan that is the same size as the Taos
the tiguan in Europe is bigger than this, in Europe that taos its the seat ateca and skoda karoq, not the kodiaq
Great review, just bought 2023 Taos SE full loaded .
Own Tiguan previously, and I can say: I agree with you Taos is better 👍
Nicely done, Nathan. Great introduction to the Taos.
Great presentation 👍. Brought points the average car user can relate to.
I prefer the Kona and Seltos. True cost of ownership with the Hyundai and Kia is likely much less too, especially if you keep the vehicle for a long time.
SEL is too expensive at 33k, a Tiguan SE, or Rogue SL etc. can be had for the same
Great review man.
Although the conventional view is that Taos is another competitor in the sub-compact SUV space, AKA "hatchbacks on stilts", a more illuminating description is that it's the replacement for the basic VW Golf that's now discontinued in the US and unlikely to return. Obviously not suitable for anything more challenging that a gravel road, it's no Jeep Compass or Subaru CrossTrek. Nor with 6.5" of ground clearance and no "protective" cladding is it meant to be. Instead, it's a roomy small car designed to be a versatile daily driver and a trip vehicle for a couple or a small family. Exactly the sort of missions that the Golf has satisfied for years. Seems to check all the right boxes.
Just purchased one in metallic gray!
I am seriously considering the fully loaded AWD SE trim of the Taos (above SEL for price and missing features).
Would you consider ponying up for the SEL? Are there any other competitors you prefer over this, whether it be a subcompact or a compact?
Good overall review Nathan!
Excellent review!!!!!⭐️
I would take this over the CHR and HRV. But my favorite is still the CX30 and Seltos.
🤔It looks like a Mercedes
@@devinbender8428 Subaru Crosstrek competes in this segment, not the Forester.
@@devinbender8428 Forester competes with the RAV4/CRV/Rogue/Tucson/Escape/CX5/Tiguan
"It's still high enough to get over snow, I guess" .............. insert "highly questionable" expression
HAHAHAHA! Loved that! Nathan you rule! hahahaha! Loved this vid! Well done!
So they redesigned the old Tiguan body style? Sweet!
That’s what we have (2013) and we were hoping VW would go back to this size SUV. Our SEL handles well and has good acceleration. The ride is stiff however, but it doesn’t bother us. If they get the Taos to be a bit quicker and tighten up the suspension, then we will be happy to get one when our Tiguan is past its prime.
Love your sense of humor, Nathan! Big package 🤣
At 11:05 was the transmission in D or S? If it’s like my VW then D shifts more like an econ mode and S is more responsive on twisty roads. Trade off is worse MPG in S. And of course you could always use manual mode.
I'm still looking at getting the 2022 HR-V.
Diffrent class
Love my 2020 Honda hrv,drove to N.C. fr Fl.at.at 85 mph,got 36 mpgs...js
That's the "american version" of SEAT Ateca
Yes, that’s exactly what it is! And as they don’t get the standard wheelbase Tiguan it makes sense to offer this instead. Welcome to America SEAT!
@@Pipsicle330 seat is again built on golf only right
Seat Ateca is much more aggressive and beautiful with softer materials at least that is my impression. It would be fun to see you reviewing my seat mii 1.0 and try to fit inside.
After my five VW’s, I know they make solid vehicles. I wish they had more power but they are as solid as you can get.
Poop can also be solid, glad you found some consistency.
138k on my 2010 Jetta nothing done but normal maintenance
@@gunnargeroy8406 there's always that one guy who manages to buck the numbers and have the magic car.
You think they would have launched it in a beautiful place such as Taos.
Thank you for the review. I enjoyed. It is a step forward for the VW portfolio.
I think I might get one. This is like the first generation Tiguan, which I missed. I had both, and 1st generation was more fun to drive. Second generation I leased one, and returned it. It was good, but lost the original sportiness and German-ness feeling compared to the first generation model.
I really like this car thinking about trading my 2017 Subaru for one ☝️
ECU and TCU tune will get all the fun out 👍
It’s so funny he mentioned the fiat but not the Kona 😂💀
@Ye Ah you sure are.
It's Nathan that's why smh lol
hi there , wich car is longer , hrv ,tao or corolla cross ? thank you
VW has always been a leader in interior space. I don`t know ho they do it but it`s magical.
They're good at that because they figure you're going to be camping out in them waiting for a tow truck.
@@bandwagon240 That`s about the dumbest thing I heard all week.
@@michaelv6870 not quite as stupid as saying you've heard something you clearly read.
@@bandwagon240 Oh Jesus, the stupid is strong with you, isn`t it?
@@michaelv6870 I'm not sure your room temperature IQ understands what humor is. Figured you'd have a sense of humor as you like the absolute shitshows VW produces.
i think the killer feature of Taos is the 1.5L turbo engine
Diehard VW lover but this Taos is a stake to the heart. The Jetta is a Corolla, the Golf is gone, the Passat died a slow and shameful death, no Touareg or ID3, and now this crapola. I can't with VW anymore...I might as well just rollover and buy a KIA. If the GTI or R ever leave NA, I will be done buying new VWs.
Thanks Nathan. Is this vehicle as much fun as the Alltrack? I know that you really liked that vehicle.
This car with some electrification or even an ev of this size would be really nice. I think there’s definitely room for a smaller vehicle than the ID.4
The only problem is it’s a Volkswagen. Constant electric system problems.
correction, it's a volkswagen built in mexico for the US market
never had any electrical problems in all of my vw cars.
VW bring the pain? Not likely, engineered obsolescence is still a thing in these German products. There is a huge number of people who won't even consider this thing as an option.
I'd like to see the numbers after APR gets their hands on this.
@Ye Ah Lol ok. Idk what that's supposed to mean based on my comment
@@thomaspugh9969 Yeah I got that same comment on one my comments .
What’s this mean?? I’m about to buy this car and I’m freaking out now!
@@renaynay03127 go to goapr.com it's an Audi tuning company. You can get a tune and other items at VW and Audi dealership's, etc
Very nice car... Thanks Nathan 😎
Seeing youtube car reviewers--- the consensus is that for driving fun, most seem to prefer the FWD + 8 speed auto setup!
I am considering this car and only way for me is AWD. This might be one of the few ways to get German engineering at a somewhat affordable price. Sure the engine is a little weak, interior quality could be better, no power lift gate and it could potentially have poor German reliability, but it does have more features than most subcompact or compact SUVs. All digital display, wireless android auto/apple car play, wireless charging and panormoc sunroof.
Not sure what other car comes with more for price. If you know what would compete, let me know.
@@usa4life71 I would test drive this car and the KIA Seltos
@@R56Cooper I did test drive the Taos.
Another well done review
do you prefer Taos or Corolla cross? @The Fast Lane Car
I'm glad we don't have the terribly laggy infotainment like the ID.4 or the glass black steering wheel switches like the Tiguan. This will sell much better than the Tiguan
Where’s all the reviews on the VW iD4? I’ve been waiting to see how it does with all your tests.
It's this Taos the same size as the old Tiguan the nobody bought because was pretty small?
Love this colour blue 🔥
How many SUV'S does one manufacturer need. I'm a current VW Jetta owner and I personally think VW needs less SUV models and bring something to compete with the Honda Ridgeline
This is the original Tiguan or Tiguan 2 with a face lift and other touches -- the 2.0 engine.
My wife wants this Tiguan baby rather than the Tiguan XL
Uh yea....the HR-V is better in every way, if cargo space isn't as important get the CX-30 which drives better and looks nicer. HR-V seats fold flat, more ground clearance, game over!
Nah I’ll pass on the garbage cvt transmission and take the reliable Aisin transmission in the VW.
It looks amazing. Much better than any compact SUV
Nice looking compact suv... Looks a lot like the UK/European regular 5-seater Tiguan.... To bad european/uk versions only auto option is dsg instead of Torque-converter transmission..... Dsg are rubbish on hills and start/stop traffic...
Nice to see another 'Tweener' sub-compact (leans more compact than sub-compact in numbers) . . . most of them are a little smallish for me and I'm not a big fan of any of the compacts (except maybe the new Tucson . . . we'll see).
p.s.: come on, Nathan . . . ya have to compare it to the Seltos in numbers! It is the most similar S-C CUV to the Taos!
My Tiguan (last gen) can be fun to drive in the roads around the canyons of malibu
I'm so excited to see how many electrical issues and common transmission and engine issues.... good luck with being reliable... because it isn't.... just watch them have an insane amount of problems 😂😂👌👌 just remember this comment
@footballcoreano my vw alltrack is perfect. have 2 of them, not a flaw in either.
Is it the same size as a jeep compass?
If this came with a Toyota/Honda engine, I would buy!
And transmission
@@mattb4084 it’s coming with Aisin transmission. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/AWF8F35. That is the same Toyota’s transmission.
Or the better DSG
@@jsmorales92 Well that's a good thing
It might be a good CUV, but I am sorry, but this vehicle is simply overpriced. For the SEL AWD, I could get a Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve, which has a much better interior, more space, and a far better engine. If it wants to compete with a Honda HR-V, then the price needs to drop across the board by 15 to 20%.
Don’t say “you just drop the mileage by a little bit” for the all wheel drive, just give the numbers.
@Ye Ah fy dee jowlah
About 28 MPG combined for the AWD vs 31 for the FWD version. Check Alex on Autos, he just did a comprehensive video of the same car.
I’m confused. That’s a Tiguan isn’t it?
It’s basically smaller Tiguan!
Where is it made? Anything VW makes in Mexico is problematic.
From the video; it looks around the same size as the original Tiguans? I think they made the newer models longer.
Lookin like daddy Doug with the huge undershirt.
Way overpriced in 🇨🇦 $ 33,000 ( With 13% HST for the base Treadline !! Comfort line $32,395 & Highline $ 36,695 . Pass . Nice colour !!
NOPE
@Ye Ah thats something a bitch would say
Honestly, it's basically the same price as an ID4 once you put in the 13k QC rebate... And they had the audacity to kill the 21k+ Golf which is extremely popular and sells just as much as the Jetta in QC
@@vladsaghin7644 Your quite right the ID4 is $45000 + HST . It’s just every new vehicle is getting very expensive . Why would you get rid of a $21,000 Golf ?!
Why would you not get the Toyota Rav4 instead? Similar price, similar mpg, much better resale value... etc.
Because i dont want to be seen in a japanese car.
I had a 2018 RAV4. The ride, comfort, solidness, fit and finish of the VW surpassed Toyota in every possible way. VW uses Toyota transmissions so it’ll be extremely reliable.
Happy 4TH OF JULY! 🇺🇸
HRV is les expensive...and bit smaller...I do not think these 2 cars are direct competition...
Why did vw need to reinvent the wheel, as it were? They could have saved a bundle and sold just as many vehicles if,they simply gave the n. American market the european short wheelbase tiguan or the t-roc. As well, where did tfl get those elevated mpg ratings? All other sources are saying 26 city, 32 hwy, 28 combined
Is it not costing almost similar to CRV??
Mazda CX-30 still the best looking exterior in this competition.
Because you probably have one
@@Yondaily Lexus and Audi is what I have.
Can’t wait for the Corolla Cross
at least they have a name that sounds ok here in the USA!
The first good looking subcompact SUV IMO. My wife would probably love it, but she already has a Tiguan.
It’s not a subcompact it’s a compact.
@@neubauerjoseph Video says subcompact. It's competitors are subcompact. Compact is something like the RAV4.
Dsg is slow to shift which is not impressive and certainly not live up to the hype of dsg. Which one is better? dsg or Aisin 8 speed from Tiguan/Atlas. If dsg is not quick enough, then what is the point? Not to mention, lack of Electronic differential lock XDS. Not impressed for the price with 1.5 TSI that sounds terrible lag compared to my Jetta 1.4 tsi with Aisin 6 speed.
Fake exhaust ports? Looks more like a mud and road grime holder
Need extra ground-clearance for your Taos? H&R to the rescue: th-cam.com/video/llwvDrfo14c/w-d-xo.html
Maybe you can black out those fake exhaust .
Test this baby out
Oh dear but Toyota is ready to launch the corolla cross hybrid! What a bigger pain than that?
geez... loaded taos or mid level tiquan...
I would be interested in a comparison to the Golf. Is this basically the same size as a Golf, but lifted an inch or two? I have had two rabbits/golfs over the years and they are great for suburban practicality and road tripping.
Also, low profile tires do not make sense on anything calling itself sport/utility. Off road would chew up low profile tires and a lot of American roads have so many potholes low profile tires do not make sense. One of the info/graphic screens you flashed make it look like if you want AWD you get stuck with crappy 19", low profile set up. That is ludicrous.
Love it.
What with all the mountain town names on SUVs lately? Or maybe I'm just noticing it more than before.
Why do people complain about fake exhausts when the entire front end of some cars are HIDEOUS? Lexus/Toyota and BMW should be ashamed for trolling their buyers like that. The gigantic and idiotic grills aren't just ugly; they are FAKE.
Volkswagen would never outlast the durability of Honda & Toyota. Unless they should stop their planned obsolescence business model & over engineered things that often breaks & cost a fortune to repair. Don't be deceived people.
I never seen any vw breakdown on highway or street. But honda or nissan. Yes alot. Most popular car lay on the street all time i saw is kia and hyundai
where's the third row seat and v8
I like the fake exhausts... makes the car cleaner looking from rusted pipes.
You remind in me of Stone Cold Steve Austin