Comparing the 2024 VW Taos vs the 2024 VW Tiguan

Finding the right car for your daily needs, along with regular trips and adventures, is not always straightforward. Every person has specific community needs, family requirements, and particular likes and dislikes in a car. For the Seattleite wanting a trustworthy SUV that's great for commuting in the city and helpful for exploring the PNW, two top options are the 2024 Volkswagen Taos and the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan. While both VW SUVs are excellent choices, they have different features that cater to various needs. Below, we will delve into the details of comparing the Taos vs. Tiguan and the unique factors that help Seattle car buyers determine the best model for them.

Before diving into the complete comparison, take a look at the helpful guide below to get some quick takeaways at a glance:

Pricing

There are multiple ways to distinguish the Tiguan from the Taos. The first difference is the MSRP price. The 2024 Taos has an MSRP starting at $23,995, while the 2024 Tiguan starts at a slightly higher MSRP of $28,880. There are a few reasons why the Tiguan starts at a slightly more premium price, which we’ll dive into in full below.

Some high-level comparisons show that the Tiguan:

• Boasts 184 horsepower compared to the Taos's 158 horsepower.
• Offers exterior design elements unavailable in other models or trim lines.
• Comes with 20" alloy wheels compared to the 19" wheels on the Taos.
• Offers a panoramic sunroof for an airy cabin experience, ambient interior lighting for a luxurious interior, and a hands-free tailgate for convenient access to the cargo area.

Ultimately, it's about identifying which features align with your lifestyle and budget. By weighing the cost against the available features, you can make the best decision.

Engine & Performance

Seattleites in the vehicle market will be pleased to note that both the Tiguan SEL R-Line and the Taos SEL trim come with AWD. All-wheel drive is ideal for the varying weather conditions in the Seattle area. Great for icy mornings and trips up to the mountains, the AWD option is perfect for both commuting and weekend adventures. Volkswagen's 4MOTION® AWD is a powerful feature in challenging driving conditions, distributing power between the front and rear wheels to optimize traction and stability.

The most significant difference between the Taos and the Tiguan, as mentioned earlier, lies in their power offerings. The Taos provides a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower, while prospective buyers looking for more power can opt for the Tiguan SEL R-Line, which comes with a larger 2.0L 4-cylinder engine and a boosted 184 horsepower.

Fuel Efficiency

Depending on the buyer's essential needs, fuel efficiency might be a deciding factor between the Taos and the Tiguan. While the Tiguan is more powerful, the Taos offers better fuel efficiency, providing long-term cost savings and a more environmentally friendly option.

The Taos delivers 36 MPG on the highway and 28 MPG in the city, while the Tiguan balances its horsepower with a respectable 30 MPG on the highway and 23 MPG in the city.

Interior & Comfort

One main reason for the price difference between the Taos and Tiguan is the size difference. The Taos is a smaller compact SUV, while the Tiguan is still considered a compact but roomier model.

Size Difference:

• Taos: A smaller, compact SUV perfect for those who prefer a nimble and efficient vehicle.
• Tiguan: Though still compact, the Tiguan offers a more spacious interior, catering to those who crave a bit more room and versatility.

Dimensions (in inches):

Front:

• Taos: With 40.7 inches of headroom, 40.1 inches of legroom, and 56.5 inches of shoulder room, the Taos ensures a comfortable ride for both driver and passenger.
• Tiguan: Offering 39.6 inches of headroom, 40.2 inches of legroom, and 57 inches of shoulder room, the Tiguan provides slightly more space, making it a great option for those longer journeys.

Rear:

• Taos: Rear passengers will enjoy 39.8 inches of headroom, 37.9 inches of legroom, and 55.2 inches of shoulder room, ensuring comfort without compromise.
• Tiguan: With 39.1 inches of headroom, 36.6 inches of legroom, and 55.9 inches of shoulder room, the Tiguan continues to offer a bit more space, ideal for those who value roominess.

Ultimately, whether you choose the nimble Taos or the spacious Tiguan, both vehicles offer their own unique strengths, making them excellent choices for Seattleites. Your decision will depend on your personal needs—whether it’s the compact efficiency of the Taos or the extra room and power of the Tiguan that best fits your lifestyle.

Safety Features

Both the Taos and Tiguan come equipped with key Volkswagen safety features. These include a safety cage, tire pressure monitoring system, intelligent crash response system, and automatic post-collision braking system. Additionally, both models offer helpful features such as travel assist, adaptive cruise control, active blind spot monitor, rear traffic alert, emergency assist, lane assist, and front assist.

However, the two vehicles differ in their available camera features. The Taos offers a rear-view camera, while the Tiguan provides both a rear-view camera and an overhead-view camera for a more comprehensive monitoring system.

Technology & Infotainment

A quality infotainment system is essential when you spend a lot of time in your car, whether you're sitting in commuter traffic, shuttling kids from one activity to another, or cruising up the pass to go skiing. The Taos is equipped with SiriusXM with 360L and Beats audio, ensuring that your tunes are always ready to flow. While the Tiguan also offers SiriusXM with 360L, this model boasts the Fender® Premium Audio System, making it an excellent choice for long commutes and road trip adventures.

Both the Taos and Tiguan feature 8" touch displays with Digital Cockpit, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, keeping you connected and entertained on the go.

Convenience Features

Certain features in modern cars make life easier. The Taos and Tiguan both offer four-door keyless access, remote engine start, and wireless charging.

Why Choose One Over the Other?

VW Taos over the VW Tiguan:

One notable difference is the price—the Taos SEL starts at $23,995, while the Tiguan begins at $28,880. The Taos also offers higher fuel efficiency, which can lead to cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint. Its efficient use of space provides a comfortable interior with sufficient room for passengers and cargo, all within a compact exterior.

VW Tiguan over the VW Taos:

The Tiguan's more powerful engine and higher horsepower contribute to a more dynamic driving experience. It also comes equipped with larger wheels and all-season tires, which enhance ride comfort. Additionally, the Tiguan offers multiple cameras for improved visibility and provides extra cargo space.

Ultimately, choosing between the Volkswagen Tiguan and the Taos depends on your needs and priorities. The Taos is an excellent choice for drivers seeking a more affordable option with good fuel efficiency, particularly for those who want a compact SUV that’s easy to navigate through Seattle's tight streets. Conversely, the Tiguan is ideal for those who need more power, cargo space, and additional comfort features for regular mountain getaways or family road trips. The Tiguan’s extra features might make it worth the additional investment.

We encourage you to experience both models and see which best suits your lifestyle. Visit Carter VW in Ballard for a test drive and discover whether the Taos or Tiguan is the right fit for your adventures in the Pacific Northwest.