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Chevrolet Trax vs. Volkswagen Taos: Which Inexpensive SUV Reigns Supreme?
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As the end of the year approaches, car shoppers seeking value are finding a competitive landscape in the small SUV segment. Recent testing by automotive experts at Edmunds pitted two popular contenders – the Chevrolet Trax and the Volkswagen Taos – against each other to determine which offers the best combination of features, performance, and price.
The Chevrolet Trax, Chevy’s smallest crossover SUV, arrives as a compelling new option, boasting a practical design and a suite of modern technology. The Volkswagen Taos, similarly positioned as VW’s entry-level crossover, counters with a more refined interior and surprising spaciousness, particularly after receiving updates for the 2025 model year.
Power and Fuel Efficiency: A Clear Advantage for VW
Under the hood, the Trax features a turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower. Edmunds’ testing revealed a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds – adequate for city driving,but feeling “wheezy” on the highway. The Taos, equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 185 horsepower, demonstrates a noticeably quicker acceleration, clocking in at 7.4 seconds in the same test. While both SUVs offer respectable fuel economy, the Taos maintains a slight edge, achieving an EPA-estimated 28 mpg combined compared to the Trax’s 28 mpg.
Winner: Taos
Tech and Features: A Mixed Bag
Both the Trax and taos come standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting Android Auto smartphone integration.Wireless connectivity for these smartphone systems is available on all Trax trims, while the base Taos requires a USB cable. The Trax also offers an optional 11-inch center touchscreen,exceeding the Taos’s maximum 8-inch display.
Though, the Taos gains ground with more USB-C fast-charging ports and an available integrated navigation system – features absent in the Trax. Furthermore, the Taos comes standard with key driver-assist technologies like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning, which are optional upgrades on the Trax.
Winner: Tie
Interior Space and Comfort: Taos Offers More Room to Grow
When it comes to interior space, the Taos clearly surpasses the Trax.The Taos provides nearly 28 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, 2.3 cubic feet more than the Trax. With the rear seats folded, the Taos expands to 65.9 cubic feet, compared to the Trax’s 54.1 cubic feet. While the Trax offers slightly more rear legroom, the Taos’s increased height provides superior headroom.
The Taos also offers more premium interior options, including ventilated leather front seats, customizable ambient lighting, second-row air vents, and a premium audio system – amenities unavailable on any Trax trim level.
Winner: Taos
Price and Value: Trax delivers on Affordability
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax starts at a remarkably affordable $21,895, including destination fees. This is significantly lower than the Taos’s starting price of $26,920 for the S trim. While Volkswagens often carry a price premium, the gap in this segment is substantial.Both base models offer similar features, including cloth upholstery, 17-inch wheels, and LED headlights.
Chevrolet’s pricing advantage persists across higher trim levels. A fully equipped Trax Activ can be purchased for under $27,000, while a top-of-the-line Taos approaches $37,000. While the Taos’s superior performance and features may justify the cost for some, the Trax presents an undeniable value proposition for budget-conscious buyers.
Winner: Trax
Edmunds’ Verdict: A Tale of Two SUVs
According to Edmunds’ analysis, the Chevrolet Trax stands out as a compelling choice for buyers prioritizing value in a small SUV. However, for those seeking overall utility and refinement, the Volkswagen Taos emerges as the recommended option. This comparison highlights the importance of aligning vehicle selection with individual needs and priorities.
This story was provided to The Associated Press by the automotive website Edmunds.Dan Frio is a contributor at Edmunds.
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