The VW Taos vs. Atlas: Expert Insights

September 16th, 2024 by

At Eich Volkswagen, we’re dedicated to helping customers find the perfect vehicle to match their needs with our personalized service and expert guidance. Among our standout SUVs, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2024 Volkswagen Taos are both excellent options.

Keep reading if you need help choosing between the VW Taos vs. Atlas! This article will compare each SUV’s key features, performance, and benefits so you can make an informed decision that best fits your lifestyle.

2024 Taos

Volkswagen Atlas Overview

If you’re looking for a roomy, family-friendly SUV with a sleek and modern design, you can’t go wrong with the Volkswagen Atlas! With this mid-size SUV, you’ll get three rows of seating, ample leg room, and an upgraded infotainment system. Offering comfort and practicality, the Atlas balances style with functionality.

Performance

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas features a new turbocharged engine with 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, along with a 5,000-pound towing capacity. The standard version still has incredible power, with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. In this SUV, climbing steep hills is no problem!

Interior and Comfort

The VW Atlas can seat up to seven passengers in three rows. With the seats upright, it has 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space, but with the third row folded down, you’ll get 96.8 cubic feet of cargo room.

This SUV’s interior was designed with comfort in mind – three-zone automatic climate control means everyone gets individual climate zones. The standard version comes with heated and ventilated seats, plus ambient lighting with up to 30 adjustable colors. 

Technology and Safety

With features like keyless access, a touch screen information system, and Apple CarPlay, the VW Atlas has no shortage of technology amenities. It also has a rearview camera, an intelligent crash response system, and an automatic post-collision braking system – so you can feel safe in any situation. 

Volkswagen Taos Overview

As VW’s smaller SUV offering, the Taos is perfect for urban driving while still providing a surprisingly roomy interior for its class. With two rows of seating, you can comfortably seat five passengers, and it also has ample cargo space for a compact SUV. This option is great if you’re looking for a stylish, agile SUV with modern features and practicality.

Performance

The Volkswagen Taos has a turbocharged 1.5 TSI engine with up to 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. With four-wheel drive, this car is easy to drive in a variety of conditions, whether you’re on snow, ice, or dirt. You can also opt for the  7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, creating smooth and efficient shifting between gears.

Interior and Comfort

The VW Taos can comfortably seat five passengers with two rows of seats. This SUV has about 65.9 cubic feet of cargo space, with the second row folded down. 

Enjoy dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof in the VW Taos. The driver’s seat has eight power adjustments and lumbar support, so the drivers will be exceptionally comfortable on long road trips.

Technology and Safety

This SUV boasts remote engine start, wireless charging, a 6.5- or 8-in. infotainment display, and Apple CarPlay. It also has a rearview camera, an intelligent crash response system, and an automatic post-collision braking system.

Comparative Analysis: Volkswagen Atlas vs. Taos

Size and Space

Compared to the Taos, the VW Atlas is much larger, with more passenger space and cargo capacity, ideal for larger families. The Taos is more compact, easier to maneuver in tight spaces, and suited for smaller families or individuals.

Aspect 2024 Volkswagen Atlas 2024 Volkswagen Taos
 

Dimensions

 

Has a length of around 200.7 inches and a wheelbase of 117.3 inches.

 

Measures about 175.8 inches in length and has a wheelbase of 105.9 inches.

 

Seating Capacity

 

Three rows of seating accommodate up to seven passengers.

 

Two rows seat up to five passengers.

 

Cargo Space

 

Offers 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 96.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.

 

Provides 27.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 65.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

Performance and Handling

When you compare the Volkswagen Atlas vs. Taos, you’ll find that the Atlas has more engine options and towing capabilities. However, the Taos has better gas mileage and is generally more responsive. 

Aspect 2024 Volkswagen Atlas 2024 Volkswagen Taos
 

Engine Options

 

~2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder (269 hp, 273 lb-ft)

~3.6L V6 (276 hp, 266 lb-ft)

 

1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder (158 hp, 184 lb-ft)

 

Transmission

 

8-speed automatic

 

8-speed automatic (FWD)

7-speed dual-clutch (AWD)

 

Towing Capacity

 

Up to 5,000 lbs (with V6)

 

1,500 lbs

 

Fuel Efficiency (City/Highway)

 

~21/25 MPG (with 4-cylinder)

~18/24 MPG (with V6)

 

28/36 MPG (with FWD)

 

Driving Experience

 

Feels more like a large, stable SUV with a focus on comfort

 

Fun to drive in urban environments, and more responsive.

Features and Technology

Both the Volkswagen Atlas and the Taos have fantastic technology and safety features. While the Atlas has a larger digital cockpit and infotainment system, both models have Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and top-notch safety systems. 

Aspect 2024 Volkswagen Atlas 2024 Volkswagen Taos
 

Infotainment

 

8-inch or 12-inch touchscreen

 

6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen

 

Digital Cockpit

 

10.25-inch (standard in higher trims)

 

8-inch (standard across all trims)

 

Connectivity

 

Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

 

Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

 

Safety Systems

 

IQ.DRIVE Suite (adaptive cruise, lane assist, emergency braking, blind spot monitoring)

 

IQ.DRIVE Suite (same features)

 

Interior Comfort

 

Leather seats, heated/ventilated seats, tri-zone climate control (available)

 

Leatherette seats, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control (available)

 

Audio

 

Fender premium audio (available)

 

BeatsAudio system (available)

 

Driver Assistance

 

Traffic Jam Assist, 360-degree camera (available)

 

Basic driver assistance, parking sensors (available)

 

Other Features

 

Wireless charging, remote start (available)

 

Wireless charging, keyless start (available)

Pricing and Value

The 2024 Volkswagen Taos has a starting MSRP of $23,995, making it an excellent option for those with a lower budget. The 2024 VW Atlas is more expensive, with a starting price of $37,995, but keep in mind that it is larger, with more cargo space, seating, and features.

2024 Atlas

Choosing the Right Model for Your Needs

When you compare the Volkswagen Atlas vs. Taos, you’ll find they are both great options catering to different needs.

Here are a few reasons why the VW Atlas might be right for you:

  • Families or larger groups: With three rows of seating and more interior space, the Atlas is ideal for larger families or those who frequently travel with multiple passengers.
  • Towing and power: If you need to tow trailers or boats, the Atlas offers up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity and stronger engine options.
  • Long road trips: The Atlas provides more comfort, with features like tri-zone climate control, heated rear seats, and a larger, more spacious cabin.

Here are a few reasons why the Taos could be the better choice for you:

  • Urban driving: Its compact size and agile handling make the Taos perfect for city driving and navigating tight spaces.
  • Fuel efficiency: The Taos excels in fuel economy, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing lower running costs.
  • Budget-friendly: With a lower starting price, the Taos provides modern tech and safety features at a more affordable rate for small families or individuals.

How Eich Volkswagen Can Enhance Your Buying Experience

When you’re choosing between the Volkswagen Atlas vs. Taos, Eich Volkswagen is here to help you with every aspect of the buying process. Here’s what you’ll get at Eich:

Personalized Assistance

We offer a laid-back approach to the car buying process – our sales team is non-commissioned, so you won’t experience any haggling or pressure. Our knowledgeable and patient salespeople are here to answer every question so that you can find the right car for your needs and lifestyle.

Test Drives and Consultations

If you can’t decide between the Volkswagen Atlas or the Volkswagen Taos, stop into Eich Volkswagen for a test drive or one-on-one consultation – we will help you through every step of the decision-making process!

Special Offers

We’re currently offering several special offers on the Volkswagen Atlas and Taos. Don’t miss out on these deals:

  • $279/month for a 36-month lease on the VW Taos
  • 3.9% APR* for 60 months OR $1,000 Customer Bonus on the VW Taos
  • 2.9% APR* for 60 months OR $3,000 Customer Bonus on the VW Atlas
  • $459/month for a 36-month lease on the 2024 Atlas

Check out our other deals here!

Conclusion

When comparing the VW Taos vs. Atlas, you’ll find that both offer modern technology, safety features, and Volkswagen’s signature reliability. With its larger size, stronger engine options, and more premium features, the Atlas is ideal for larger families or those requiring extra power and space. On the other hand, the Taos offers a more compact, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly option, perfect for city driving or smaller families.

For more information, visit or contact Eich Volkswagen in St. Cloud, MN, to schedule a test drive and get personalized assistance in finding the perfect Volkswagen to fit your lifestyle!