Volkswagen Taos vs. Subaru Crosstrek Page

Are you looking to add a new compact SUV to your driveway in the Chula Vista area? Two compelling options are the new Volkswagen Taos and the new Subaru Crosstrek. Even though the Subaru Crosstrek has just entered a new generation with a fancy new facelift, it struggles to keep up with what the Volkswagen Taos has to offer. Curious to see how the Taos outperforms the Crosstrek on the La Mesa-area roads and highways? Compare the Taos vs. Crosstrek below to discover their surprising differences. 

VW Taos vs. Subaru Crosstrek: Performance & Driving Dynamics

The base engine in the 2023 VW Taos is a 1.5L turbo-charged engine, while the base engine in the Subaru Crosstrek is a 2.0L 4-cylinder. Even though the Subaru’s engine is larger, it underperforms in comparison to the Volkswagen Taos. Compare the Taos vs. Crosstrek performance figures here to learn more: 

2023 VW Taos Performance 

• 1.5L turbo-charged engine
• EPA-estimated 28 mpg city/36 mpg highway*
• 158 hp
• 184 lb-ft of torque 
• 8-speed automatic transmission

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Performance

• 2.0L 4-cylinder engine
• EPA-estimated 27 mpg city/34 mpg highway
• 152 hp
• 145 lb-ft of torque 
• Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

As you can see, the Volkswagen Taos returns superior fuel economy on the roads of Encinitas. Not only that, but it also outperforms the Crosstrek with greater horsepower and torque! And, Volkswagen gives you an 8-speed automatic transmission in the Taos; while it’s all up to your preference, lots of drivers prefer automatic transmission over CVT because it offers more engaging and responsive driving dynamics. 

VW Taos vs. Subaru Crosstrek: Cargo Capacity

Whether you’re running errands or leaving on an epic road trip, a spacious cargo area is essential, and it’s probably one of the reasons you want to upgrade to a compact SUV. When you compare the cargo volume of the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Volkswagen Taos, we think the difference will speak for itself: 

2023 VW Taos Cargo Capacity

• 28 cubic feet behind second row
• 66 cubic feet behind first row

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Cargo Capacity

• 20 cubic feet behind second row
• 55 cubic feet behind first row

Test Drive the VW Taos at Kearny Mesa Volkswagen

After comparing the Volkswagen Taos vs. Subaru Crosstrek, do you feel like you know which one is right for you? If you favor the VW Taos, you can test drive one at Kearny Mesa Volkswagen! Contact us to plan your visit or feel free to stop by the next time you’re in our neighborhood. If you’d like to, you can chat with our finance team about leasing and buying options while you’re here.

*28 city/36 highway mpg (2023 Taos 1.5L, 8-speed automatic transmission). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.