Volkswagen Taos vs Volkswagen Tiguan (Canada)

Volkswagen Taos vs Volkswagen Tiguan (Canada)

May 25, 2025
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taos vs tiguan

The compact SUV market in Canada continues to grow rapidly, with buyers seeking vehicles that balance size, technology, efficiency, and versatility. Volkswagen’s lineup in this segment features two important contenders: the Volkswagen Taos and the Volkswagen Tiguan. Although both share Volkswagen’s design philosophy and many features, they are built to serve different buyer needs and preferences.

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This article delivers an in-depth comparison of these two models in the Canadian context, covering everything from pricing, engine options, dimensions, interior features, and safety to ownership considerations.


Market Positioning and Overview

The Volkswagen Taos is positioned as a subcompact SUV designed for urban Canadians looking for affordable practicality, efficiency, and modern features. It competes with rivals like the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-30.

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On the other hand, the Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV with more power, space, and premium features, competing with the Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and Honda CR-V. It is often chosen by families who need extra room and versatility.

SpecificationVolkswagen TaosVolkswagen Tiguan
Vehicle ClassSubcompact SUVCompact SUV
Seating Capacity55 (optional 7)
Starting Price (CAD)~$31,000~$38,000
Engine Options1.5L Turbo Inline-42.0L Turbo Inline-4
DrivetrainFWD Standard, AWD OptionalFWD Standard, AWD Optional
Cargo Volume (max)1,072 L (37.8 cu ft)1,830 L (64.6 cu ft)

Pricing and Trim Levels in Canada

Price is often a key factor for Canadian consumers, especially as new vehicle prices have been climbing.

Trim LevelTaos Price (CAD)Tiguan Price (CAD)
Base$31,000$38,000
Mid$34,000$42,000
High$38,000$48,000
Top Performance TrimN/A$53,000 (R-Line/SEL)
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The Taos offers a budget-friendly entry into the VW SUV lineup, with most features Canadian drivers expect. The Tiguan demands a higher investment but delivers more power, space, and premium appointments.


Engine and Performance

Volkswagen Taos

Powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, the Taos is tuned for efficiency and daily usability. An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard, and front-wheel drive comes standard, with Volkswagen’s 4MOTION AWD available as an option.

  • Fuel Economy: Approx. 8.5 L/100 km combined, making it one of the more fuel-efficient vehicles in its class.
  • Drive: Agile and light, the Taos performs well in urban settings, Canadian highways, and even snowy conditions when equipped with AWD.

Volkswagen Tiguan

The Tiguan steps up with a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 engine that delivers 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. This power boost supports better highway passing, towing (up to 1,500 kg), and a more confident driving experience in varied terrain.

  • Fuel Economy: Slightly less efficient, averaging about 9.7 L/100 km combined.
  • Drive: AWD is more common on the Tiguan trims, providing extra safety and traction during Canadian winters.
SpecificationVolkswagen TaosVolkswagen Tiguan
Engine1.5L Turbo Inline-42.0L Turbo Inline-4
Horsepower158 hp184 hp
Torque184 lb-ft221 lb-ft
Transmission8-speed automatic8-speed automatic
DrivetrainFWD/AWDFWD/AWD
Fuel Economy (Combined)8.5 L/100 km9.7 L/100 km

Dimensions and Interior Space

Size differences between the two are subtle but significant for buyers.

DimensionVolkswagen TaosVolkswagen Tiguan
Length4,456 mm (175.4 in)4,486 mm (176.5 in)
Width1,841 mm (72.5 in)1,839 mm (72.4 in)
Height1,603 mm (63.1 in)1,676 mm (66.0 in)
Wheelbase2,680 mm (105.5 in)2,681 mm (105.5 in)
Passenger Capacity55 (7 optional)
Cargo Volume (rear seats up)766 L (27 cu ft)710 L (25 cu ft)
Cargo Volume (rear seats folded)1,072 L (37.8 cu ft)1,830 L (64.6 cu ft)

While the Taos offers slightly more cargo space behind the rear seats, the Tiguan shines with overall interior volume and the option of a third row, which can be important for larger families or those needing extra passenger capacity.


Interior Features and Technology

Volkswagen outfits both SUVs with modern infotainment and comfort features, but there are notable differences:

FeatureVolkswagen TaosVolkswagen Tiguan
Infotainment Screen6.5” Standard / 8” Optional8” Standard / 10.25” Optional
Digital Cockpit (Virtual Cluster)Available on higher trimsStandard on most trims
Apple CarPlay / Android AutoStandardStandard
Climate ControlManual / Dual-zone AutomaticDual-zone Automatic
SeatingCloth standard, Leatherette optionalLeatherette standard, Leather optional
USB Ports2 standard3 standard
Ambient LightingOptionalStandard on higher trims

The Tiguan generally has a more upscale interior, with higher-grade materials and more advanced technology available, especially in upper trims.


Safety Features and Driver Assistance

Safety is a priority for VW in both models, important for Canadian roads and harsh weather:

Safety FeatureVolkswagen TaosVolkswagen Tiguan
Adaptive Cruise ControlAvailableStandard/Available
Lane Keeping AssistAvailableStandard
Blind Spot MonitoringAvailableStandard
Rear Cross Traffic AlertStandardStandard
Forward Collision WarningStandardStandard
Automatic Emergency BrakingStandardStandard

Both SUVs come well equipped with active and passive safety features, but the Tiguan often includes more advanced driver-assist features as standard at lower trims.


Driving Dynamics and Ride Quality

  • Volkswagen Taos: Known for its light and nimble handling, the Taos is ideal for city dwellers and weekend adventurers. It feels responsive in tight spaces and offers a composed ride over Canadian roads. AWD improves winter performance but adds cost.
  • Volkswagen Tiguan: Offers a more planted and refined ride, especially at highway speeds. The suspension is tuned for comfort, and the additional torque makes it better suited for towing and longer trips. AWD versions handle Canadian winters very well.

Cost of Ownership and Practicality

Owning an SUV in Canada involves more than just the purchase price. Fuel costs, maintenance, insurance, and resale value are key.

Ownership FactorVolkswagen TaosVolkswagen Tiguan
Fuel EfficiencyBetter fuel economy (approx. 8.5 L/100 km)Higher fuel consumption (approx. 9.7 L/100 km)
Maintenance CostsGenerally lower due to simpler engineSlightly higher due to larger engine and premium parts
Insurance PremiumLower due to smaller size and costHigher due to vehicle value and size
Resale ValueGood for subcompact segmentStrong resale in compact SUV segment
Winter CapabilityAWD option recommendedAWD common and highly effective

Which One Should Canadian Buyers Choose?

Choose Volkswagen Taos if:

  • You prioritize fuel economy and affordability.
  • You mostly drive in urban and suburban environments.
  • You want a nimble SUV with modern tech and sufficient cargo space for everyday needs.
  • Your family size is small (up to 5 passengers) and you rarely need extra cargo volume.

Choose Volkswagen Tiguan if:

  • You need more passenger and cargo space, especially with the 7-passenger option.
  • You want stronger performance for highway driving and towing.
  • You prefer more premium features and a refined interior.
  • You live in regions with harsh winters and want a robust AWD system.

Final Thoughts

Both the Volkswagen Taos and Volkswagen Tiguan represent strong choices in Canada’s growing SUV market. The Taos offers excellent value and efficiency, while the Tiguan caters to buyers seeking more space, power, and luxury.

By carefully evaluating your budget, space needs, and driving habits, you can confidently choose the model that best fits your lifestyle in Canada’s diverse and often challenging driving conditions.

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