What To Know
- The Forester has received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- Both vehicles offer a high level of safety features, but the Forester has a slight edge due to its five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
- Overall, the VW Taos offers a slightly more affordable starting price, but the Subaru Forester offers more standard features and a higher safety rating for a slightly higher price.
The Subaru Forester and Volkswagen Taos are two popular compact SUVs that offer a compelling blend of practicality, versatility, and value. Both vehicles boast impressive features, but which one is the ultimate choice for discerning drivers? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Forester and VW Taos to help you make an informed decision.
Powertrain and Performance
Subaru Forester: The Forester comes standard with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and offers all-wheel drive as standard.
VW Taos: The Taos offers a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that generates 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
In terms of performance, the Forester’s larger engine provides slightly more power, while the Taos’s turbocharger offers improved torque and responsiveness. However, the CVT in the Forester can be less engaging than the traditional automatic transmission in the Taos.
Fuel Efficiency
Subaru Forester: The Forester achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway with all-wheel drive.
VW Taos: The Taos delivers an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive slightly reduces fuel economy to 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Overall, the VW Taos has a slight edge in fuel efficiency, especially with front-wheel drive.
Interior Space and Comfort
Subaru Forester: The Forester offers a spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing good lumbar support.
VW Taos: The Taos has a more compact interior than the Forester, but it still offers a decent amount of space for its size. The seats are comfortable, but they may feel a bit firm for some drivers.
In terms of cargo space, the Forester has a larger trunk with 31.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 76.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Taos has 27.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 66.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Features and Technology
Subaru Forester: The Forester comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rearview camera. Higher trims offer features such as a larger 8-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
VW Taos: The Taos comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rearview camera. Higher trims offer features such as a digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium Fender audio system.
Both vehicles offer a wide range of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Safety
Subaru Forester: The Forester has received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
VW Taos: The Taos has received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.
Both vehicles offer a high level of safety features, but the Forester has a slight edge due to its five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
Price and Value
Subaru Forester: The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $25,195 for the base trim. Higher trims can range up to $36,295.
VW Taos: The VW Taos has a starting price of $22,995 for the base trim. Higher trims can range up to $32,995.
Overall, the VW Taos offers a slightly more affordable starting price, but the Subaru Forester offers more standard features and a higher safety rating for a slightly higher price.
Which One is Right for You?
The Subaru Forester and VW Taos are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a compelling blend of practicality, versatility, and value. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you prioritize:
- More power and torque
- Larger interior space
- Higher safety rating
Then the Subaru Forester is the better choice.
If you prioritize:
- Better fuel efficiency
- Lower starting price
- More advanced technology features
Then the VW Taos is the better choice.
The Bottom Line
Whether you choose the Subaru Forester or the VW Taos, you can be confident that you are getting a reliable and capable compact SUV that will meet your needs. These vehicles offer a winning combination of performance, efficiency, space, and safety, making them excellent choices for families, adventure seekers, and everyday drivers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Subaru Forester has a more powerful engine with 182 horsepower compared to the VW Taos‘s 158 horsepower.
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency?
A: The VW Taos has slightly better fuel efficiency, especially with front-wheel drive.
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Subaru Forester has a more spacious interior with more headroom, legroom, and cargo space.