Performance

The Volkswagen Taos has a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with 158 hp and 184 lb.-ft of torque, outperforming the Trax's 1.4-liter engine (155 hp, 177 lb.-ft) and the Crosstrek's 2.0-liter engine (152 hp, 145 lb.-ft). The Taos' also offers an eight-speed automatic transmission to deliver solid acceleration and responsive handling, making it more engaging to drive than its rivals.

While the Trax's six-speed automatic and the Crosstrek's CVT provide adequate performance, they lack the enthusiasm found in the Taos' powertrain. The Taos also offers available 4MOTION all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability in various conditions, giving it an edge over the front-wheel-drive Trax.

The Taos' well-tuned suspension strikes a perfect balance between comfort and agility, providing a smoother ride and more confident cornering than the Trax and Crosstrek. Its precise steering and strong brakes further contribute to its superior driving dynamics.

 

Accommodations and Practicality

The Taos provides a more spacious and versatile interior than the Trax and Crosstrek, with up to 99.5 cubic feet of passenger volume. Its cargo capacity of 28 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 66 cubic feet with the seats folded is class-leading, making it the most practical choice for hauling gear and accommodating various needs.

While the Trax offers a similar passenger volume to the Taos, it falls short in cargo space with only 48 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded. The Crosstrek, despite having more passenger volume, provides less cargo space than the Taos, which has only 55 cubic feet when the seats are folded.

The Taos also boasts higher-quality materials and a more upscale interior design compared to the Trax and Crosstrek. Its comfortable seats, ample legroom, and thoughtful storage solutions make it a more pleasant and functional environment for both drivers and passengers.