2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited vs 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL
On paper, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited wins on $2,935 less. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $2,935 price gap, 182 vs 174 hp, 29 vs 28 MPG.
The Crosstrek Limited leads on $2,935 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited | 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,260 | $35,195 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 174 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 14.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,349 lbs | 3,441 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 105.5" |
| Length | 176.4" | 175.9" |
| Width | 70.9" | 72.5" |
| Height | 63.0" | 65.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited and 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited starts at $32,260, $2,935 less than the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL at $35,195. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $52/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,935 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $52/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL is the stronger pick when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited or 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited rates 29 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited or 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited produces 182 hp, 8 more than the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL at 174 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is 0.5″ longer at 176.4″ vs 175.9″. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL has a 0.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Subaru Crosstrek comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Taos offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Subaru trims, Subaru Crosstrek trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Taos trims
The Crosstrek–Taos Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Crosstrek and Taos compare. The $2,935 gap adds up to $52/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 8 hp difference (182 vs 174) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited saves roughly $52/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $260.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited when you want to keep $2,935 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL when you prefer the Volkswagen approach to the compact SUV segment. At $52/month more, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Subaru or Volkswagen or any dealership.