2022 Volkswagen Taos versus 2022 Subaru Crosstrek
May 16 2022
Though the Subaru Crosstrek has been part of the scenery for several years, the 2022 Volkswagen Taos is a brand-new subcompact vehicle that will definitely be hard to contend with. If you are looking for the best small SUV for your lifestyle and your needs, find out more about the differences between the VW Taos vs the Subaru Crosstrek!
We, at VW Lauzon Blainville, present you with this comparison between SUVs to help guide you in your choice.
Let’s get to the heart of the matter
Comparing technical specifications
The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is standard equipped with a 2.0 L 4- cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft. maximum torque. As you reach higher range models, a second and slightly more powerful engine becomes optional; a 2.5 L with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft. maximum torque.
When we compare the VW Taos to the Crosstreck, only one engine is offered as standard equipment: it has 158 horsepower and a significantly more generous torque of 184 lb-ft. It is a 1.5 L turbocharged engine, and it is also more energy efficient.
The entry-level model of the Subaru Crosstrek might very well be less expensive than the Taos, but it also comes with a slower and more boring engine.
Comparing road handling
The driving experience is not only a question of engine and power, it also has much to do with the transmission and the mechanical components as a whole.
Let’s take a closer look…
With Subaru, the base engine can be coupled with a 6- speed manual transmission or a CVT transmission (which is only offered with the more powerful engine). Critics all agree on how the Subaru manual transmission lacks precision. Even though the continuously variable transmission (CVT) is well developed with Subaru, this type of transmission is less popular with drivers.
When it comes to the Volkswagen, we get the best of both worlds, with a 7- or 8- speed automatic transmission. It also includes a manual mode, for those who love a dynamic driving experience, while gear shifts remain smooth.
The fact that all-wheel drive is offered as standard equipment is often used as an argument for those who opt for a Subaru; and it is true that off-road skills are a strength. All-wheel drive is offered as an option on the entry level model of the Taos, and as standard equipment on all other versions.
However, it is wrong to think that all all-wheel drive systems are equal. The German manufacturer is well known for the technical quality of its powertrains and drivetrains, and the all-wheel drive was developed with great expertise. Suspension is more flexible, and the driver experience is both more agile and sportier with the 4MOTION system and its DSG automatic transmission.
The Subaru Crosstrek vs Volkswagen Taos might offer better off-road skills, but for everyday driving, the Taos definitely wins the match.
You can take a look at the 2022 Taos detailed technical specifications sheet here.
But wait, there’s more!
Comparing comfort
The Crosstrek has long been known as a subcompact with a very spacious interior. However, when comparing it to the Taos, we quickly find a significant advantage with Volkswagen.
In both models, front passengers will take advantage of ample space, even if the Taos offers a little more, like with extra head clearance, for example. Where the difference is even more notable is at the back, where rear passengers have not been ignored nor forgotten, and have added head and legroom.
Car critics also mention the comfort offered by the seats. Heated front seats are standard on the Taos, contrary to the Crosstrek, where it is only offered from the Touring version on. The Highline version of the Taos is particularly luxurious, with ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and much more, which are features that aren’t found aboard the Subaru.
Comparing cargo space
Cargo space is always an important element that is considered by those who purchase an SUV. On that note, the Taos is at the top of the list for the subcompact category, with a 790 L trunk and a total cargo space that reaches up to 1,866 L. These numbers are slightly less with the all-wheel drive system, but still remain superior to those of the Crosstrek.
The Crosstreck has a 588 L trunk and maximum cargo space of 1,565 L. The Taos and the Crosstreck are both great subcompacts; but the Taos is much more practical when it comes to cargo.
Comparing design and style
The VW Taos vs the Subaru Crosstrek both offer very different styles. In fact, the Crosstrek looks more like a car that is simply slightly higher on wheels than an SUV, with a style closer to that of the Impreza.
As for the Taos, it is quite the opposite. It takes its inspiration from more imposing vehicles like the Tiguan or even the Atlas, with squarer and more robust lines. Overall, it boasts a much more youthful and modern look. Volkswagen also offers a vast array of stylized rims.
In short:
5 reasons why you should pick the Taos VS the Crosstrek
- Only one engine with great performance
- Agile and sporty road handling
- A comfortable interior
- More generous space
- An imposing and modern SUV style
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Summary and table for both compacts SUVs
Here are the numbers, and how the VW Taos vs the Subaru Crosstrek compare:
| Features | 2022 VW Taos | 2022 Subaru Crosstrek |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5 L Turbocharged | 2.0 L 4- cylinder |
| Power | 158 horsepower | 152 horsepower |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft. | 145 lb-ft. |
| Transmission |
8- speed automatic + manual mode 7- speed Automatic DSG (TI) |
6- speed manual CVT |
| Cargo space |
790 L – 1,818 L 705 L – 1,705 L (TI) |
588 L – 1,565 L |
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