
Volkswagen Taos Trim Levels Comparison Chart

The four Volkswagen Taos trim levels all offer incredible value to those who are looking for a compact SUV with more. Whether you're interested in the compelling blend of affordability and features provided by the VW Taos S or the top-tier comforts of the VW Taos SEL, we're excited to help you pick out your new, nimble, and dynamic ride.
We aim to provide excellent customer service to everyone who visits our store. Please reach out to our Gunther Volkswagen Daytona Beach team to schedule a financial consultation, Taos test drive, or to compare any other vehicle in our dynamic lineup.
Volkswagen Taos Trim Level Comparison Chart
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Trim | EPA-est. MPG (Comb) | Engine | Transmission | Standard Drivetrain | Seating | Standard Wheels |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VW Taos S | 311 | Turbo 1.5L 4-cyl | 8-speed automatic | FWD | 5 | 17-in alloy |
VW Taos SE | 311 | Turbo 1.5L 4-cyl | 8-speed automatic | FWD | 5 | 18-in alloy |
VW Taos SE Black | 311 | Turbo 1.5L 4-cyl | 8-speed automatic | FWD | 5 | 18-in black alloy |
VW Taos SEL | 282 | Turbo 1.5L 4-cyl | 8-speed automatic | AWD | 5 | 19-in alloy |
Volkswagen Taos Trim Levels Explained
As you can see in the above VW Taos trim comparison chart, the performance specs of each VW Taos are fairly similar.
Every model uses a turbocharged engine that provides 177 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The Taos in most trims delivers up to an EPA-estimated 28/36/31 MPG (City/Highway/Combined);1 however, the exception is the VW Taos SEL, which comes standard with 4MOTION all-wheel drive.
This changes the EPA mileage estimate to 24/33/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 Although MPG values take a slight dip, the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system offers a stronger connection to the road. The other trims can be equipped with 4MOTION all-wheel drive as an option; all AWD-equipped 2025 Volkswagen Taos trim levels deliver the same MPG rating as the SEL trim seen above.
The most significant differences between the Volkswagen Taos trim levels are found in the features lineup for each model. We'll detail all four options below to help you select the model that best suits your needs. Don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions.
VW Taos Trim Comparison
Each of the Volkswagen Taos trim levels provides an excellent blend of creature comforts, safety technology, and style.

VW Taos S
This entry-level model boasts a stunning variety of technologies and amenities. The SUV has standard VW IQ.DRIVE, a suite of safety features that help your vehicle safeguard you as you drive. It includes:
- Travel Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert
- Emergency Assist
- Lane Assist
- Light Assist
Some of these technologies are geared toward general safety, while others operate on the highway. The VW Taos S also has numerous standard comforts, including a heated, leatherette-wrapped steering wheel and a leather-wrapped gear shifter knob. This model's other features include:
- VW Digital Cockpit
- Two front USB-C data ports with 45-watt fast-charging capabilities
- 8-inch touchscreen
- App-Connect smartphone integration
- LED projector headlights
VW Taos SE
The SE trim adds a number of upgrades to the new VW Taos. The remote start system gets your vehicle going before you even leave the house; whether it's a scorching hot day or a chilly winter morning, you'll appreciate this feature. It also adds dual-zone climate control and keyless access. Other SE features include:
- Heated front seats
- Eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat
- Park Distance Control (front and rear coverage)
- CloudTex and cloth seat upholstery
- Wireless smartphone charger
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror

VW Taos SE Black
The Volkswagen Taos SE Black comes with numerous black accents that give the vehicle a sophisticated look, such as the roof, A-pillars, mirror caps, and spoiler. It also has an adaptive front lighting system with cornering lights and an integrated light bar on the front grille.
The SE Black trim is similarly equipped to the SE trim, but it does add noteworthy feature upgrades like a standard panoramic sunroof. This bolder, stylish edition also has a rear USB-C charging port.
VW Taos SEL
The top-tier Volkswagen Taos SEL has leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and 19-inch wheels. The VW Taos SEL offers luxury features without a luxury price tag, with its further standard appointments including a Dynamic Road Sign Display, an ambient interior lighting system, and the VW Digital Cockpit Pro.
This Volkswagen Taos trim levels guide has revealed that every model is impressive and well-equipped; however, the amenities and technology only become more advanced as you reach the highest trim in the lineup. The Taos is a dynamic vehicle that gets excellent gas mileage while providing practical, comfortable room for you and up to four passengers.

VW Taos Dimensions
Speaking of room, we'll now take a look at the VW Taos measurements to give you an idea of what you can fit into this sleek SUV. The Taos trims have the same measurements; however, things can vary depending on whether the model has a sunroof.
In models without a sunroof, the front seats provide 40.7 inches of headroom, 40.1 inches of legroom, 56.5 inches of shoulder room, and 53.9 inches of hip room. The second row boasts 39.8 inches of headroom, 37.9 inches of legroom, 55.2 inches of shoulder room, and 45.4 inches of hip room.
With a sunroof, the first-row headroom becomes 39.5 inches and the second-row headroom is 38.8 inches.
The Taos can also carry an impressive amount of cargo. With the back seats up, FWD versions of the Taos can haul up to 27.9 cubic feet of groceries, luggage, or boxes on moving day. If you lower the second row, you can put up to 65.9 cubic feet of cargo into the vehicle. With 4MOTION AWD, these measurements become 24.9 and 60.2 cubic feet, respectively.
Some drivers appreciate everything that the VW Taos and other vehicles in the company's lineup bring to the table, but are wary of new vehicle prices. For this reason, our dealership proudly offers used Volkswagen SUVs to our community. Our pre-owned selection is affordable and packed with models that have advanced features and perform well. Please visit us today for a test drive.
Visit Us for a New VW Taos
Now that you've read about the Volkswagen Taos trim levels, you can be sure that regardless of whether you choose the S, SE, SE Black, or SEL model, you'll be in for a treat. With a standard heated steering wheel and numerous safety features, the Taos is an excellent choice for drivers seeking practicality and comfort in a compact SUV package.
There are two paths to the front seat of this bold VW SUV. Financing the vehicle is one option with which many drivers are quite familiar. The other choice is leasing. When you lease a VW Taos, you essentially rent the car from our dealership, Gunther Volkswagen of Daytona Beach. Our VW Taos lease specials make this option even more affordable and appealing.
Whether you want to lease or purchase a new VW Taos for sale, our dealership is the place to do it. Our finance team will work hard to land you the competitive lease or purchase offer you've always dreamed of. Once you're driving a new car, our service center can help you maintain it, too.
Visit our dealership today to explore the Volkswagen Taos trim levels in person and take this dynamic SUV out for a spin. All of us are excited about your arrival at our store.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different models of the VW Taos?
There are four Volkswagen Taos trim levels for you to consider: S, SE, SE Black, and SEL. Each of these trims relies on a turbocharged engine, allowing you to enjoy power and efficiency at the same time. If you'd like an in-depth tour to see the differences between the available Taos trims, please contact our team here at Gunther Volkswagen of Daytona Beach.
What is the difference between the S and SE trim of the VW Taos?
The S trim is the base model in the lineup, making it the most affordable but still providing quality essential features, like IQ.DRIVE, a heated steering wheel, and an 8-inch touchscreen. The SE trim adds more premium amenities, like heated front seats, remote engine start, wireless smartphone charging, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Compare these two models here at Gunther Volkswagen of Daytona Beach.
What does "SE" mean in the VW trims lineup?
"SE" stands for "Special Equipment," "Special Edition," or "Sport Edition," depending on which model it's for. All three phrases depict an upgraded version of the base trim. The new VW Taos SE, for example, has heated front seats, remote engine start, and 18-inch alloy wheels (which are larger than the wheels on the entry-level VW Taos S). To learn more, get in touch with us today.
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128 city/36 highway/31 cmb mpg (2025 VW Taos 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder, eight-speed automatic transmission). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.
224 city/33 highway/28 cmb mpg (2025 VW Taos 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder with all-wheel drive, eight-speed automatic transmission). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.