At a Glance
Power
180hp @ 5800
174hp @ 5500
Torque
178lb-ft @ 3700
184lb-ft @ 1750
Towing
1500lbs
—
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
1.5 L/91cc
Choosing between the Subaru Crosstrek and the Volkswagen Taos is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Subaru Crosstrek delivers 180hp @ 5800 while the Volkswagen Taos produces 174hp @ 5500. Pricing starts at $26,995 for the Crosstrek and $26,500 for the Taos. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
180hp @ 5800
174hp @ 5500
Torque (lb-ft)
178lb-ft @ 3700
184lb-ft @ 1750
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
1.5 L/91cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
—
8
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
26mpg
28mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
33mpg
36mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
16.6gal
13.2gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
176.4in
175.8in
Width (in)
70.9in
72.5in
Height (in)
62.8in
64.4in
Wheelbase (in)
105.1in
105.9in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3296lbs
3181lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
1500lbs
—
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
—
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
—
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Taos
Practicality
Crosstrek
Pros & Cons
Subaru Crosstrek
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Volkswagen Taos
Lower starting price ($26,500)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Crosstrek or Taos?
The Crosstrek produces 180hp @ 5800 and 178lb-ft @ 3700 of torque while the Taos delivers 174hp @ 5500 and 184lb-ft @ 1750 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Crosstrek and Taos?
The Crosstrek starts from $26,995 and the Taos from $26,500. The Taos is cheaper by $495 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Crosstrek or Taos?
The Crosstrek has a braked towing capacity of 1500lbs and the Taos can tow not specified. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Crosstrek or the Taos?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.