The Subtle Differences Between the VW Tiguan and Taos

Shopping for an SUV involves some formidable legwork. There are many makes and models on the market, and finding just one that suits your needs should be a well-thought-out decision. Many drivers find Volkswagen SUVs to be a favorable alternative to other brands, such as Chevy, Ford, or Toyota. VW SUVs benefit from stylish exteriors, precision engineering, and interiors that combine luxury-appointed amenities with regal comfort.

Two of the most popular SUVs built by VW are the Tiguan and Taos. With similar-sounding names and being built by the same brand, you might be curious about the subtle differences between them. If you’re shopping for a Volkswagen Tiguan for sale in Cleveland, you’ll find the information we’re presenting today useful.

We’ll take a look at the compact Tiguan and explore the subtle differences between it and the subcompact Taos. We’ll examine seating, performance, and technology, and how they affect Cleveland residents. After reading this, you’ll understand the differences between the two SUVs. Most importantly, you might just want to go shopping for one.

Performance You Can Count On

An appealing attribute for the VW fleet is the refined engineering that each vehicle possesses. Cleveland drivers seeking capable performance with remarkable fuel economy will appreciate what these SUVs have to offer. The Taos and Tiguan have similar powertrains that meet the expectations of drivers.

Since 2018, the VW Tiguan has been powered by a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine. It produces 184 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. VW pairs the engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission for optimum performance. In addition to its lively acceleration, the engine allows the SUV to pull 1,500 lbs when properly equipped.

The Taos has a slightly smaller engine, but one that’s just as capable. A turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder produces 158 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Taos isn’t particularly designed for towing, but it does feature available all-wheel drive for light recreational activities.

Both SUVs strike a balance between performance and economy on equal footing. Despite having a more powerful engine, the Tiguan is fairly efficient in terms of fuel consumption. The refreshed 2022 Tiguan achieves 26 MPG combined. The fuel economy in the Taos is slightly more economical, mainly due to its downsized engine and smaller size. The 2022 Taos offers 31 MPG combined. Both vehicles are certainly efficient and help you save at the pump.

As you can see, both SUVs are powered by turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Both are fairly adept at offering performance and an economical commute. The differences between the SUVs’ engines are minimal, a hallmark of VW equipping all its vehicles with the best the brand has to offer.

An Ideal Interior

There are many things drivers notice when shopping for an SUV. Some might notice the performance, while others might take note of the starting price. However, the interior is where you’ll be spending the majority of your time. It’s the interior of any SUV that tends to be the deciding factor in choosing a particular make or model.

The interior is where the largest differences between the Tiguan and Taos become apparent, and much of this has to do with seating arrangements. Because the Taos is a subcompact SUV, it offers seating for up to five. The Tiguan, on the other hand, features an available third row that accommodates a total of seven passengers. The Tiguan is an ideal choice for families that occasionally require extra space.

The larger Tiguan also offers drivers generous cargo space. If storage and seating are important factors in an SUV you’re thinking of purchasing, you should consider what both vehicles have to offer in these areas.

Despite the Taos being a smaller SUV than the Tiguan, it still gives Cleveland residents plenty of room to work with. With all five seats occupied, the 2022 VW Taos offers 27.9 cu.ft. of cargo room. When storage is a priority, the rear seats can be folded to unlock 65.9 cu.ft. of space.

The 2022 Tiguan offers far more space for drivers, making it a more advantageous choice. Two-row Tiguan models offer 73.4 cu.ft. of room when the rear seats are folded. Three-row versions of the SUV are just as generous as the Taos, with 65.7 cu.ft. of space available behind the front row.

Keeping Cleveland Drivers Connected

Regardless of the vehicle you drive, it’s crucial to have access to your favorite apps and other technologies. In addition to being adept at crafting performance-oriented vehicles, VW has always been on the cutting edge of technology. The Taos and Tiguan have intuitive infotainment systems that keep Cleveland drivers connected when they’re on the road.

Both the Taos and Tiguan have virtually identical screens, offering the same advantages for drivers. Models built from 2022 to 2024 have two available options. Base trims come equipped with a 6.5-inch screen, while higher trims feature an eight-inch screen for a more immersive experience. The screens in both vehicles provide all the necessary connectivity functions.

Both setups feature connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Select trims of both vehicles offer bonus features, such as wireless charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot, that can help keep you connected while on the road. Drivers can also stream audio via Bluetooth.

Whether you choose the scaled-down Taos or the larger Tiguan, you’ll have plenty of technology at your fingertips. You’ll have the ability to stay connected regardless of how far your travels take you.

Safety and Driving Assistance Features

There are several subtle differences between the Taos and Tiguan, particularly in terms of performance and interior design. However, there are many similarities between the models. Particularly, their infotainment system and the features that provide protection and oversight. Nothing is more important than safety, and VW ensures that all its SUVs come equipped with numerous features for added peace of mind.

Most pre-owned Tiguan and Taos models come standard with a broad range of driving assistance features. Items such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, and blind spot warning are all in place to help drivers maximize their reaction time. A rear cross traffic alert helps drivers maximize their field of vision and gain a better understanding of their surroundings.

Since 2024, the Tiguan and Taos have come standard with VW’s IQ.DRIVE adaptive cruise control technology. The feature monitors traffic patterns during highway driving. By adjusting the vehicle speed to match traffic patterns, reaction time is optimized, enabling drivers to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

Whether the Taos or Tiguan is the SUV you choose, you can drive with complete confidence. A host of standard safety features goes a long way in providing you with the peace of mind you need.

The Ideal SUVs for Cleveland Drivers

If you live in Cleveland and are in the market for a used SUV, the VW Tiguan and Taos are both remarkable offerings to consider. Both SUVs offer economical powertrains, plenty of storage space, and technologies that keep you safe and connected when you’re on the road.

Shopping for a Tiguan or Taos is easy when you choose to do business with Online.cars. As a digital marketplace for prospective buyers, we have an expansive selection and financing options that suit any budget. Shop our selection today. An exciting VW SUV is just one click away.