Can the 2023 VW Taos 4Motion go OFF-ROAD? We find out and get it dirty.

Driving the 2023 VW Taos 4Motion
We drove the FWD VW Taos several months ago and found it had solid driving manners, impressive fuel economy, and a ton of interior space. We were definitely looking forward to getting our hands on an AWD model, unfortunately, the AWD version's powertrain was subject to a recall due to a faulty control unit. VW pressed on with the front-wheel drive versions on the road until the problem was fixed.
AWD v FWD
So what are the differences between the two, well the FWD model rides on a twist-beam rear suspension and utilizes an eight-speed conventional automatic transmission, whereas the Taos AWD gets an independent suspension system for the rear axle and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Powering the Taos is a new 1.5-liter version of the turbocharged inline-four, it gets a variable-geometry turbocharger and produces a respectable, 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque from just 1750 rpm. 0-60 takes 7.5 seconds which is 0.2 seconds less than its front wheel drive sibling.
Fuel economy does take a hit if you opt for the AWD system due to the added weight, expect highway mpg to be 32 versus 36 for a front driver.
2023 VW Taos 1.5T SEL AWD Numbers
BASE PRICE: $34,535
AS TESTED PRICE: $35,830
VEHICLE LAYOUT: Front-engine, All-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door SUV
ENGINE: Turbocharged and inter-cooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4,
POWER: 158 hp @ 5,500 rpm
TORQUE: 184 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
CURB WEIGHT: 3,465 lb
0-60 MPH: 7.5 sec
EPA COMB/ CITY/HWY: 28/25/32 mpg
OUR OBSERVED FUEL ECONOMY: 24.2 MPG
PROS: Good performance and handling, spacious interior
CONS: Jerky dual clutch transmision

[@LordOfTheResin]

In all honesty after driving it town for a few months the car seems to have adjusted to my driving style and it does great. I couldn't be happier with it.

[@nhuff73]

My 23 Taos se 4motion is the best car I’ve ever had.

[@murder00redrum]

I got the 22 Highline its amazing as well!

[@jjberg83]

Glad you mentioned the trunk. I was trying to use that function and was thinking I had a faulty key fob! Excited to use the 4-Motion this winter.

[@kangag3]

The blank "buttons" around the shifter are for parking assist functions for trim levels which may. not be available in North America...

[@Elseabfree]

I have to have 4 motion here in WI. Winter winter. I’m hoping to test drive soon. I hope it isn’t frustrating enough to turn me away because I feel pretty set on the Taos thus far. Thanks for an awesomely helpful review !

[@pfink70]

15:04 - avoid that sign...the one that says no motor vehicles😆

[@tradinglaunchpad2441]

Great video!

[@frankhassle9366]

Great comment!

[@viktorzuki5611]

I drive taos 4motion here in Edmonton, Canada.we have snow about 6-7 months in a year.with all icey road even with normal mode i drives perfect on highways with great mileage.

[@stephenpang5]

Is there a mud cover ?

[@Zero1Zero1]

Interesting that it shares the infotainment and dash of mk7.5 Golf R but the Golf R doesn't let you change anything regarding 4 motion

[@theruleoffire]

People give up on the fake exhaust thing. First of all when have you seen exhaust that high on a vehicle that isnt a Porsche. Second stand behind that Porsche as you unload their luggage and take it to their room. Yeah it fuking burns. Hence why they have been and always should be below. Because until i can hire my own chauffeur i don’t want to burnt shins n be poor.. 😂