2025 Subcompact SUV Matchup: VW Taos Vs. Chevy Trax
Subcompact SUVs combine extraordinary value and incredible utility, something you'll see in detail as we examine the Volkswagen Taos vs. Chevy Trax battle. Both models drive into the spotlight with excellent cargo space for their sub-180-inch lengths, eco-friendly engines that save you between each rest stop, and excellent standard features, elevating the drive for you and your family. However, if your goal is to maximize interior comfort with a 174-horsepower powertrain and available AWD, the Taos is the clear choice.
At Wallace Volkswagen of Johnson City, you will learn how far the subcompact SUV market has evolved in 2025. Let's dive in and see what awaits when you visit our location.
Volkswagen Taos vs. Chevy Trax at a Glance
- The Taos engine wins in all categories: more horsepower, exciting acceleration, and better fuel economy.
- Trax models are all FWD. The Taos comes with available 4MOTION AWD.
- Despite being the shorter SUV, the Taos has excellent headroom at 40.7 inches in the front and 39.8 inches in the rear. Cargo volume is also impressive, at 65.9 cubic feet up to the front row.
- While both subcompact models have solid standard convenience, only the Taos offers features like ventilated front seats with genuine leather upholstery.
- Enjoy upgraded standard safety features, like Adaptive Cruise Control, in the Taos. The Trax works with fewer driver assistance options.
Volkswagen Taos vs. Chevy Trax Specs & Engine Performance
Like your real-life tour, our virtual walkthrough begins with a quick look at the engine. The Chevy Trax limps along the road thanks to a 1.2-liter turbo I-3. This setup is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission to produce 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. While serviceable, the Trax never creates a thrilling atmosphere. And with your only drivetrain being front-wheel drive, the Chevy SUV continues to underperform for drivers needing that extra control for difficult terrain.
The 1.5-liter four-cylinder workhorse in the Taos is an entirely different story. Rather than doing the bare minimum, the VW Taos produces 174 horsepower (37 more than the Trax) and 184 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to an eight-speed automatic transmission and available 4MOTION AWD, the Taos will ensure your drive is smooth and responsive, wherever you and your family travel.
| VW Taos S | Chevy Trax LS | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L 4-cyl | 1.2L turbo I-3 |
| Horsepower | 174 | 137 |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 162 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto | 6-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | FWD, available AWD | FWD |
| EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 28 / 36 / 311 | 28 / 32 / 302 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Length | 175.9 in | 178.6 in |
| Width | 72.5 in | 71.8 in |
| Height | 64.5 in | 61.5 in |
| Headroom (Front / Rear) |
|
39.6 / 38.1 in |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 40.1 / 37.9 in | 41.9 / 38.7 in |
| Passenger Volume (w/o Sunroof) | 99.5 cu ft | 98 cu ft |
| Cargo Volume (Min / Max) | 27.9 / 65.9 cu ft | 25.6 / 54.1 cu ft |
VW Taos vs. Chevy Trax Fuel Economy
Logically, better performance would mean worse fuel economy. But, in this case, Volkswagen engineering again gives the Taos the edge. Where the Trax has an incredible EPA-estimated 28/32/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),2 the new Volkswagen Taos for sale provides even more value with an EPA-estimated 28/36/31 MPG (City/Highway/Combined). 1
2025 Volkswagen Taos vs. Chevy Trax Dimensions
Speaking of value, if you put the Taos and Trax side-by-side, you'd be convinced the Chevy SUV is the more spacious vehicle. At 178.6 inches, the Trax is about 2.7 inches longer than the Volkswagen model. This perception is complicated by the 72.5-inch width and 64.5-inch height of the Taos, both slightly more than the Chevy SUV.
Those carefully designed dimensions are what give the VW Taos its surprisingly expansive interior. As shown in the chart, the Taos has 1.5 more cubic feet of overall passenger space and more rear-row headroom than the Trax – even with the available sunroof. The trunk is larger as well. The VW Taos offers an extra 2.3 cubic feet of storage space behind the second row, and 11.8 cubic feet up to the front. While legroom is in favor of the Chevy Trax, your passengers will adore how easy it is to relax – and carry groceries, skis, or suitcases – within the VW subcompact sport-ute.
VW Taos vs. Chevy Trax Trim Levels
Dimensions, horsepower, and torque are in favor of the Volkswagen, but how do the different trims look between these models? Well, for starters, the Taos has four unique variants, with the first three being FWD or available AWD, and the final option being standard AWD. Trim levels include:
- S
- SE
- SE Black
- SEL
The Trax has five different levels, all with FWD:
- LS
- 1RS
- LT
- 2RS
- ACTIV
Volkswagen Taos vs. Chevy Trax Interior & Tech Features
Depending on your trim choice, you can rely on passable comfort and convenience in a Chevy Trax – or the incredible experience of the 2025 VW Taos. The Chevy Trax upholstery ranges from cloth to EvoTex, a synthetic leather. For genuine leather seating, the VW Taos SEL serves as your premium home away from home.
Both models start with manual climate control, but the Trax stays single-zone as it becomes automatic, while the Taos upgrades to dual-zone automatic climate control as early as the SE trim. Seeing the stars is easy in a Taos model thanks to a power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof. The Trax never gains access to that classic vacation element, though it does get a larger touchscreen infotainment center at 11 inches. The Taos SEL instead prioritizes ambient interior lighting for you and your passengers, and a large 10.25-inch configurable Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro to keep you informed.
VW Taos vs. Chevy Trax Safety & Driver Assistance
Just like how the Taos consistently stays one step ahead of the Trax in terms of comfort and convenience, VW drivers are always served by accessible, state-of-the-art sensors. Schedule a test drive of the Taos and see how standard Adaptive Cruise Control and available Front and Rear Park Distance Control work together to guide your experience. The Trax requires an add-on for Adaptive Cruise Control, and never gets Front Parking Assistance.
The Trax has few unique advantages in terms of safety, such as the Teen Driver report card and seat belt check. However, the available Blind-Spot Monitor and Dynamic Road Sign Display systems are likely more useful for a young driver's peace of mind.
Explore the 2025 Volkswagen Taos vs. Chevy Trax Winner at Wallace Volkswagen of Johnson City
While both small-size SUVs have their merits, we hope our digital Volkswagen Taos vs. Chevy Trax tour has revealed the value carefully added to every aspect of the VW Taos. If you're convinced, give us a call! One of our representatives will happily take you and your family on a 2025 Taos test drive as soon as possible. Once you've found the trim that calls to you, our VW Taos deals are ready to reduce your stress, opening your budget to higher trims and accessories.
Want more research into the VW SUV? We're a great starting place. Read through our VW Taos vs. Toyota RAV4 guide to learn how VW ingenuity stands up to a legendary name in sport utility vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more versatile in drivetrain options, the Taos or Trax?
If you want versatile drivetrain options, the VW Taos delivers. The 2025 Chevy Trax only comes in FWD – no trim gets AWD to improve your handling and control over slippery terrain. The Volkswagen SUV has 4MOTION AWD functionality available for all trim levels, from the base S to the feature-rich SE Black. All-wheel drive comes standard with the Taos SEL trim.
Does the Volkswagen Taos or Chevy Trax offer more interior space?
Despite being the shorter SUV, the VW Taos offers more interior space for both passengers and cargo. The Chevy Trax has 98 cubic feet of passenger room with all chairs up -- the Taos has more, at 99.5 cubic feet. Cargo space isn't as competitive, with the Taos providing 65.9 cubic feet behind the front seat, while the Trax can only muster 54.1 cubic feet.
Which is better for performance, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos or the Chevrolet Trax?
For 2025, the VW Taos has upgraded its already effective powertrain, dwarfing the Chevrolet Trax regarding ride quality and smooth acceleration. The Taos reaches 174 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque with its 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. The 1.2-liter turbo I-3 of the Trax only creates 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque.
Discover More VW Model Comparisons
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| VW Taos Vs. Toyota RAV4 | VW Tiguan Vs. Toyota RAV4 |
128 city/36 highway mpg (2025 Taos S 1.5-liter four-cylinder, eight-speed automatic). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.
2EPA-estimated 28 city/32 hwy 1.2-liter turbo I-3.