Volkswagen Taos specifications and photos
The 2021 Volkswagen Taos is a compact crossover representing the model's first generation. Depending on the market, this SUV is offered in distinct configurations with varying wheelbases, engines, and features. It targets buyers looking for a modern, tech-focused utility vehicle.
Volkswagen Taos at a glance
Quick model context before comparing photos and trim-level specifications.
Introduced in late 2021, the Volkswagen Taos is positioned as a compact SUV that serves different needs across global markets. Volkswagen manufactures two distinct versions of the vehicle. The North American model, built in Mexico, features a longer wheelbase of 2689 mm and a total length of 4466 mm. In contrast, the version built for CIS markets features a shorter 2638 mm wheelbase and a length of 4417 mm, sharing its structural platform with the Skoda Karoq. In addition to size, these regional variants differ in their powertrain offerings, chassis tuning, and standard equipment lists. The Taos aims to deliver everyday utility and modern technology, making it a competitive option in the crowded compact crossover segment.
- Power: 110-160 hp
- Engine displacement: 1395-1598 cc
- Transmissions: 5-speed manual, 8-speed automatic, 7-speed dual-clutch
- Seating: 5 seats
Photos, trims and specifications for Volkswagen Taos
This model page brings gallery images, trim comparison, and detailed technical data together for the 2021 generation.
Estimate fuel cost
Use trim-level fuel consumption data to estimate monthly and yearly fuel spending.
Fuel costs are estimates. Real consumption can change with driving style, traffic, tires, weather, load, and market-specific equipment.
Volkswagen Taos overview
Editorial context for design, cabin, performance, practicality, and buyer notes.
Design
The exterior styling of the Volkswagen Taos is consistent with the brand's contemporary design language. It features a prominent front grille, headlights joined by a light-emitting diode strip, and silver bumper inserts. Unpainted plastic body cladding protects the lower perimeter of the SUV, highlighting its utility focus. Wheel options vary by market, ranging from standard 17-inch wheels up to 19-inch options on higher-tier North American specifications. Underneath, front-wheel-drive models utilize a rear torsion beam setup, while all-wheel-drive versions receive a more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension design.
Interior
Inside, the Taos features a clean layout centered around physical climate controls and a digital driver display. Depending on the trim, drivers receive either an 8-inch digital cockpit or a customizable 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro display. Infotainment duties are handled by a center touchscreen utilizing either the MIB2 system with a 6.5-inch screen or the newer MIB3 platform with an 8-inch screen. Practicality varies by region; the longer wheelbase of the North American version provides more rear-seat legroom and a larger 790-liter cargo hold, whereas the shorter version provides a 500-liter cargo capacity.
Performance
Engine choices depend entirely on the market. The North American model relies on a 1.5-liter TSI engine generating 160 horsepower and 249 Nm of torque, utilizing a high compression ratio and variable turbine geometry. Other markets offer a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated MPI engine with 110 horsepower, or a 1.4-liter TSI turbo-four making 150 horsepower. Front-wheel-drive configurations pair these engines with either a five-speed manual or an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. All-wheel-drive configurations employ a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to manage power delivery.
Practicality
Practicality is a strong suit of the Taos, though its capability depends on the specific regional version. The standard model offers a 500-liter cargo compartment, which is suitable for daily tasks and family road trips. The extended-wheelbase variant expands cargo space to 790 liters, providing class-leading room for luggage. With comfortable seating for five and a standard 50-liter fuel tank, the vehicle functions well as a daily driver. A ground clearance of 177 mm helps negotiate rough roads and light obstacles.
Safety and tech
The Taos is equipped with a range of driver assistance systems. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot monitoring. On North American models, these driver aids are grouped under the IQ.Drive suite, offering semi-automated driving support. Technology packages also include adaptive headlights, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, a power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, and a wireless smartphone charging pad.
Buyer notes
When evaluating the Volkswagen Taos, buyers should pay close attention to regional specifications. The 1.5-liter TSI engine and the longer wheelbase are specific to models built in Mexico for the North American market. If purchasing in other markets, buyers will choose between the entry-level 1.6-liter MPI with a manual gearbox or the turbocharged 1.4-liter TSI. All-wheel-drive models are generally paired with a dual-clutch transmission and multi-link rear suspension, while front-wheel-drive variants use a simpler rear suspension and a traditional automatic or manual transmission.
Trims and key specifications
Use this table to compare the main differences between available configurations.
| Trim / modification | Engine | Power | Seats | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 MPI (110 hp) 5-speed manual | 1598 cc | 110 hp | 5 | 5-speed manual |
| 1.5 TSI (160 hp) 8-speed automatic | 1498 cc | 160 hp | 5 | 8-speed automatic |
| 1.5 TSI (160 hp) 7-speed DSG 4x4 | 1498 cc | 160 hp | 5 | 7-speed dual-clutch |
| 1.4 TSI (150 hp) 8-speed automatic | 1395 cc | 150 hp | 5 | 8-speed automatic |
| 1.4 TSI (150 hp) 7-speed DSG 4x4 | 1395 cc | 150 hp | 5 | 7-speed dual-clutch |
Specifications can vary by market, model year, and equipment package. Use the trim sections below to review the full data for each configuration.
Volkswagen Taos photo gallery
20 images are collected here with the main specifications and trim data for this model.
Photo Volkswagen Taos
Specifications by trim
Choose a configuration below to open full technical data grouped by category.
1.6 MPI (110 hp) 5-speed manual 33 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Fuel consumption city, L/100 km | 9 |
|---|---|
| Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km | 6 |
| Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km | 7.1 |
| Top speed, km/h | 180 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s | 11.4 |
Engine
| Engine | 1.6 MPI |
|---|---|
| Engine code | CWVA (EA211) |
| Engine type | Internal combustion engine |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Engine displacement, cc | 1598 |
| Cylinder layout | Inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Valves | 16 |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Power, hp | 110 |
| RPM at max power | 5800 |
| Torque, Nm | 155 |
| RPM at max torque | 3800-4000 |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4417 |
| Height, mm | 1602 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2638 |
| Front track, mm | 1576 |
| Rear track, mm | 1541 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 1287 |
| Fuel tank capacity, L | 50 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 177 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1841 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 500 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | manual |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
1.5 TSI (160 hp) 8-speed automatic 35 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Fuel consumption city, L/100 km | 8.4 |
|---|---|
| Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km | 6.5 |
| Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km | 7.6 |
| Emissions standard | Euro VI |
Engine
| Engine | 1.5 TSI |
|---|---|
| Engine code | EA211 Evo |
| Engine type | Internal combustion engine |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Engine displacement, cc | 1498 |
| Cylinder layout | Inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Valves | 16 |
| Turbocharger | + |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Power, hp | 160 |
| RPM at max power | 5500 |
| Torque, Nm | 249 |
| RPM at max torque | 1750 |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4417 |
| Height, mm | 1602 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2638 |
| Front track, mm | 1576 |
| Rear track, mm | 1541 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 1287 |
| Fuel tank capacity, L | 50 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 177 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1841 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 500 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | automatic |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Transmission manufacturer | Aisin |
| Automatic transmission | + |
1.5 TSI (160 hp) 7-speed DSG 4x4 34 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Fuel consumption city, L/100 km | 9.4 |
|---|---|
| Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km | 7.4 |
| Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km | 8.4 |
| Emissions standard | Euro VI |
Engine
| Engine | 1.5 TSI |
|---|---|
| Engine code | EA211 Evo |
| Engine type | Internal combustion engine |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Engine displacement, cc | 1498 |
| Cylinder layout | Inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Valves | 16 |
| Turbocharger | + |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Power, hp | 160 |
| RPM at max power | 5500 |
| Torque, Nm | 249 |
| RPM at max torque | 1750 |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4417 |
| Height, mm | 1602 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2638 |
| Front track, mm | 1576 |
| Rear track, mm | 1541 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 1287 |
| Fuel tank capacity, L | 50 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 177 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1841 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 500 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | 2-speed automated manual |
| Drive | All-wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Automatic transmission | + |
1.4 TSI (150 hp) 8-speed automatic 35 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Fuel consumption city, L/100 km | 9.2 |
|---|---|
| Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km | 5.7 |
| Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km | 7 |
| Top speed, km/h | 200 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s | 8.8 |
Engine
| Engine | 1.4 TSI |
|---|---|
| Engine code | EA211 DJKA |
| Engine type | Internal combustion engine |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Engine displacement, cc | 1395 |
| Cylinder layout | Inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Valves | 16 |
| Turbocharger | + |
| Power, hp | 150 |
| RPM at max power | 5000 |
| Torque, Nm | 250 |
| RPM at max torque | 1500-4000 |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4417 |
| Height, mm | 1602 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2638 |
| Front track, mm | 1576 |
| Rear track, mm | 1541 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 1287 |
| Fuel tank capacity, L | 50 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 177 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1841 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 500 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | automatic |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Transmission manufacturer | Aisin |
| Automatic transmission | + |
1.4 TSI (150 hp) 7-speed DSG 4x4 34 specifications
Specifications
Performance and consumption
| Fuel consumption city, L/100 km | 10.1 |
|---|---|
| Fuel consumption highway, L/100 km | 6.7 |
| Fuel consumption combined, L/100 km | 8 |
| Top speed, km/h | 190 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s | 8.9 |
Engine
| Engine | 1.4 TSI |
|---|---|
| Engine code | EA211 DJKA |
| Engine type | Internal combustion engine |
| Fuel type | Gasoline |
| Engine displacement, cc | 1395 |
| Cylinder layout | Inline |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Valves | 16 |
| Turbocharger | + |
| Power, hp | 150 |
| RPM at max power | 5000 |
| Torque, Nm | 250 |
| RPM at max torque | 1500-4000 |
Dimensions
| Seats | 5 |
|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4417 |
| Height, mm | 1602 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2638 |
| Front track, mm | 1576 |
| Rear track, mm | 1541 |
| Kerb weight, kg | 1287 |
| Fuel tank capacity, L | 50 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 177 |
| Width without mirrors, mm | 1841 |
| Trunk capacity, L | 500 |
Transmission and drive
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch |
|---|---|
| Transmission type | 2-speed automated manual |
| Drive | All-wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Automatic transmission | + |
Volkswagen Taos questions
Short answers based on the specifications and photos available in this catalog.
What is the difference between the US and Russian versions of the Volkswagen Taos?
The US-market version is assembled in Mexico and has a longer 2689 mm wheelbase, a length of 4466 mm, a 790-liter cargo space, and is powered by a 1.5-liter TSI engine. The Russian/CIS version has a shorter 2638 mm wheelbase, a length of 4417 mm, a 500-liter cargo space, and uses either a 1.6-liter MPI or 1.4-liter TSI engine.
What engine options are available for the 2021 Volkswagen Taos?
Depending on the market, the Taos offers a 1.6-liter MPI naturally aspirated engine (110 hp), a 1.4-liter TSI turbocharged engine (150 hp), or a 1.5-liter TSI turbocharged engine (160 hp).
What transmissions are used in the Volkswagen Taos?
Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, an 8-speed automatic, or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG), depending on the engine and whether the car has front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
How much cargo space does the 2021 Taos have?
The cargo capacity is 500 liters for the standard-wheelbase version, whereas the long-wheelbase version built for the North American market offers 790 liters.
Does the 2021 Volkswagen Taos have all-wheel drive?
Yes, all-wheel-drive (4Motion) configurations are available and come equipped with a 7-speed DSG transmission and multi-link rear suspension.