2025 Volkswagen Taos vs. Subaru Crosstrek: Which one to Choose?

Are you looking for a compact SUV that is as practical in the city as it is out on the open road, yet powerful enough for weekend getaways? Two vehicles often stand out: the 2025 Volkswagen Taos and the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek. Both models are popular in the province of Quebec and come with their own unique take on the modern SUV. But which one offers the best value for your money? Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.

Two Different Approaches to a Compact SUV

The 2025 Volkswagen Taos is a European compact sport utility that was introduced in 2022. It is perfectly adapted to urban settings, with a stunning design and cutting-edge technologies. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek, on the other hand, focuses on adventure: it comes standard with all-wheel drive and sports a more rugged appearance, well suited for off-road settings and off-the-beaten-path excursions.

Comfort: Which Cabin is More Inviting?

Inside, the Taos takes the lead with a spacious interior. Rear legroom spans over 963 mm, compared to the Crosstrek's 923 mm. The Volkswagen also offers more headroom for front passengers than the Subaru—a slight difference that becomes an important one for taller passengers.

The Taos' cargo space is also impressive: 790 L behind the rear seats versus only 564 L for the Crosstrek, which represents a 40% increase.

In terms of sound insulation, tests by NewCars.com indicate that the Taos provides a quieter interior than the Crosstrek, partly thanks to its laminated front windows (available on the Comfortline+ and Highline trims).

Handling: Urban Agility or Unwavering Grip?

Subaru has built a reputation by offering symmetrical all-wheel drive as standard offered equipment on every Crosstrek, which is indeed a real advantage on our snowy roads. However, the Taos counters with a 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system that is available on higher trims, and which is paired with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission (DSG) that delivers quicker, more responsive gear changes compared to the Crosstrek's CVT.

On dry roads, the Taos provides a more dynamic driving experience, with more precise steering and a turning radius of 11.5 m compared to 11.9 m for the Crosstrek, which makes tighter urban maneuvers much easier.

Everyday Life: More Room for Your Stuff

With a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and an adjustable floor, the Taos offers greater flexibility than the Crosstrek. It also provides extra USB-C ports (up to 4), a 100% digital dashboard even on the base trim, and remote start available from the Comfortline trim on; a feature Subaru only reserves for its higher trims.

In short, whether for family use or city driving, the Taos proves to be more versatile and practical on a daily basis.

Technical Specifications: A More Dynamic Engine for the Volkswagen

The Taos' turbo engine produces less horsepower than the Crosstrek's, but it delivers more torque at low RPMs (184 lb-ft. from 1750 RPM), resulting in brisker accelerations in everyday driving conditions.

Design: European Chic or Classic Adventurer?

The Taos' design reflects German precision: clean lines, balanced proportions and a carefully crafted LED light signature. It adopts a more refined style that appeals to those who prefer a chic ride, even in a compact SUV.

The Crosstrek, with its prominent wheel arches, 220 mm ground clearance (versus 175 mm for the Taos) and robust roof bars, is geared toward outdoor enthusiasts.

Awards: A Strong Track Record on Both Sides

The Subaru Crosstrek is known for its long-term reliability, garnering high ratings from Consumer Reports and consistently being featured among the AJAC’s top picks.

Despite its later arrival on the market, the Taos has earned a 9/10 rating from Car and Driver and was a finalist at the 2023 World Car Awards in the urban SUV category.

Features: More Options from the Base Trim

Both the 2025 Volkswagen Taos and the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek start at a base price above $30,000, making them top contenders on the Quebec market. However, the Taos comes standard with:

• A configurable digital dashboard
• Wireless Apple CarPlay
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane-keeping assist system

Features that Subaru reserves for its more expensive trims.

Long-Term Value: Why the Taos Might be Worth More

Yes, the Taos' price may seem slightly higher on the better-equipped trims, but there's a rationale behind it:

• The Taos has a projected residual value of 60% after 3 years, compared to 55% for the Crosstrek (according to ALG Canada).
• Service intervals are spaced at 15,000 km versus 10,000 km for Subaru, reducing long-term maintenance costs.
• Average maintenance expenses over the years are lower than those for the Subaru.

In summary: a lower total cost of ownership, especially if you keep your vehicle for 4 years or more.

Table: Annual Maintenance Costs for an Annual Driving Distance of up to 15,000 km

Result? Total maintenance costs over the first 5 years are nearly $2,000 lower for the Volkswagen.

This remains consistent even for drivers who are frequently on the road: with an annual driving distance of 40,000 km, total maintenance costs for years 1 through 5 amount to $6,322 for the Taos compared to $8,213 for the Crosstrek.

(Source: VW.ca )

5 Reasons to Choose the Volkswagen Taos over the Crosstrek

1. More cargo space and more volume in the trunk alone.
2. Digital cockpit, wireless Apple CarPlay, more USB ports.
3. DSG transmission and a turbocharged engine with stronger low-end torque.
4. Better value with more features offered from the base trim on.
5. Higher residual value and less frequent maintenance.