2025 Volkswagen Taos Trim Levels
Drivers seeking a sporty and agile compact SUV offering an array of configurations and customization options will want to check out the Volkswagen Taos trim levels. The 2025 VW Taos trims include four distinct editions, each with a unique feature set and style. Join DARCARS Volkswagen of Silver Spring as we uncover the amenities and differences of the new Taos models.
Volkswagen Taos Trim Levels at a Glance
- Four Taos trims offered for 2025: S, SE, SE Black, and SEL.
- IQ.DRIVE and VW Digital Cockpit come standard on the S base trim.
- SE adds upgrades like wireless App-Connect and wireless charging.
- Blacked-out features highlight the sporty SE Black trim.
- The top-tier SEL boasts leather-trimmed seats and ambient interior lighting.
VW Taos Trim Levels Comparison
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos trim levels consist of four updated editions as part of this compact SUV's refresh for the 2025 model year. Each 2025 Taos features fresh new styling, cabin material updates and upgrades, and a more robust powertrain, which sees output increased by 19 horsepower to 174 horsepower.
Drivers can choose from the following four trims, which we'll cover more extensively below:
- 2025 VW Taos S
- 2025 VW Taos SE
- 2025 VW Taos SE Black
- 2025 VW Taos SEL
Already know which model you want? We often provide Taos lease deals on select trims.
2025 VW Taos S
The Taos S forms the basis of all other VW Taos trim levels, starting this compact SUV on the right foot with a vibrant list of standard features that put many other small crossovers and SUVs to shame.
A floating 8-inch touchscreen display includes App-Connect, enabling you to pair your mobile device through Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™. The Taos S sports a wired connection to your phone via USB.
The updated and upgraded 2025 Taos S also comes with standard amenities like:
- IQ.DRIVE driver-assist suite
- VW Digital Cockpit (non-configurable 8-inch digital instrument cluster)
- Heated steering wheel
- LED exterior lighting
For an even more affordable option than a new base model, consider a used VW Taos for sale.
2025 VW Taos SE
Stepping up to the next-level SE trim includes wireless charging and a wireless App-Connect smartphone integration for an even more convenient way to charge up and connect your mobile device while on the go.
Remote engine start and Park Distance Control (front and rear) are also found in the SE, which sweeten your deal.
2025 VW Taos SE Black
The SE Black is a blacked-out take on the Taos. It adds black-painted alloy wheels, along with a black roof, spoiler, A-pillars, and side mirrors. Its black wheels aren't simply a dark-painted version of the SE's 18-inch wheel design; the 2025 VW Taos SE Black has angular five-spoke wheels, which differ in design from those of the SE model.
2025 VW Taos SEL
The SEL tops the Volkswagen Taos trims lineup, pulling out all the stops for drivers who desire the most well-equipped version of this SUV.
A customizable VW Digital Cockpit Pro system replaces the standard VW Digital Cockpit unit found on other trims. Ambient interior lighting and leather seating surfaces elevate the high-tech interior with a touch of elegance.
| Features | 2025 VW Taos S | 2025 VW Taos SE | 2025 VW Taos SE Black | 2025 VW Taos SEL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L I-4 turbo | 1.5L I-4 turbo | 1.5L I-4 turbo | 1.5L I-4 turbo |
| Horsepower | 177 | 177 | 177 | 177 |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD avail) | FWD (AWD avail) | FWD (AWD avail) | AWD |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Wheel Diameter | 17 in | 18 in | 18 in | 19 in |
| Seat Material | Cloth | CloudTex and cloth | CloudTex and cloth | Leather |
| Sound System | 4-speaker | 6-speaker | 6-speaker | 6-speaker |
| Phone Charging | Wired | Wireless and wired | Wireless and wired | Wireless and wired |
Volkswagen Taos S vs. SE
The difference between Taos S and SE trims comes down to their standard comfort and convenience features. A dual-zone automatic climate control system comes in the Taos SE, as do CloudTex and cloth seating surfaces, an upgrade from the all-cloth seats of the S variant.
An Adaptive Front Lighting System on the SE trim improves on the base model's standard LED headlights with the addition of dynamic cornering lights for enhanced early morning and night visibility.
VW Taos SE vs. SEL
Opting for a new Taos for sale in the SEL variant adds significant upgrades over the SE. Larger 19-inch wheels replace the 18-inch wheels of the SE, while its seating trim is genuine leather. Additionally, the VW Digital Cockpit Pro display is added.
Which Taos iteration will you choose? If you're still considering other VW models, please see our Taos vs. Tiguan comparison, then book a test drive for the vehicle that speaks most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Taos trims offer all-wheel drive (4MOTION)?
All 2025 Volkswagen Taos trim levels offer 4MOTION all-wheel drive, as the VW brand calls its advanced AWD system. Front-wheel drive is standard equipment on the S, SE, and SE Black variants, but each of these Taos trims can be given the 4MOTION AWD system as an available upgrade. The range-topping Taos SEL comes standard with 4MOTION AWD.
What fuel economy can I expect from each trim?
You can expect an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 28/36 MPG (City/Highway)1 from the VW Taos S, SE, and SE Black trim levels when equipped with standard front-wheel drive. Select any of the four trims with AWD (including the SEL and its standard AWD), and you'll find it comes with an EPA-estimated 25/33 MPG (City/Highway)2 rating.
What safety features come standard on each Volkswagen Taos trim?
The following safety features come standard on each Volkswagen Taos trim as part of the IQ.DRIVE suite of advanced driver-assistance systems:
- Travel Assist
- Lane Assist
- Emergency Assist
- High Beam Control
- Forward Collision Warning
- Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring
- Active Blind Spot Monitor
- Adaptive Cruise Control
Learn more about these standard safety features during your Taos test drive at DARCARS Volkswagen of Silver Spring.
Featured Customer Review
Denisse Alvarez-Vaca
3/20/2025
I had a fantastic experience at DARCARS Volkswagen! Yachir, the Sales Consultant, was friendly and incredibly helpful. He guided me through learning about my Taos, including how to connect my phone and use the parking brake. Diako, the Sales Manager, assisted me in choosing the right Taos, and the Pure Gray Taos is stunning! Overall, the service was excellent, and the car is beautiful! Thank you, DARCARS Volkswagen!
128 city/36 highway mpg (2025 Taos 1.5L turbo, eight-speed automatic). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.
225 city/33 highway mpg (2025 Taos 1.5L turbo, eight-speed automatic). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.