2025 Volkswagen Taos vs. Subaru Outback

When you’re on the hunt for a new vehicle, you want to find the perfect balance of performance, comfort, and value. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos and Subaru Outback both offer enticing features, but how do they stack up against each other? In this comparison of the 2025 Volkswagen Taos vs. the Subaru Outback, we’ll provide a detailed analysis to help you make an informed decision about your next ride.

Pricing and Value

Let’s kick things off with pricing and value, two crucial factors in any car comparison. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos starts at an MSRP of $24,995 for the front-wheel-drive (FWD) model and $26,695 for the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version. In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Outback has a higher starting price, with the base model beginning at $28,895. Over a five-year period, the Taos is expected to depreciate by approximately 44.7%, resulting in a resale value of around $13,260. The Outback, known for its slower depreciation, is projected to lose about 42% of its value, retaining a resale value of approximately $23,209.

When considering lifetime costs, the Taos has a lower initial purchase price but higher depreciation compared to the Outback. The total five-year ownership cost for the Outback, including depreciation, taxes, financing, fuel, insurance, maintenance, and repairs, is estimated at $40,153. The Taos, while not having a detailed breakdown available, is likely to have a lower overall cost due to its lower starting price and similar maintenance and insurance costs. However, the Outback’s better resale value and robust off-road capabilities might offer better long-term value if you’re seeking a versatile and durable vehicle.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Now, let’s talk about performance and fuel economy. A 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that produces 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque powers the 2025 Volkswagen Taos. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. The Taos is available in both FWD and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION AWD system.

In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Outback offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter flat-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a continuously variable transmission and come standard with Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system.

In terms of fuel economy, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos achieves an estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway for the FWD model, with slightly lower figures for the AWD version. The 2025 Subaru Outback, with its base engine, offers a combined fuel economy of 28 mpg, with 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged Outback, however, sees a drop in efficiency, with a combined rating of 25 mpg, 22 mpg in the city, and 29 mpg on the highway.

Design, Comfort, and Features

Let’s move on to design, comfort, and features, where both vehicles have their unique flair. The new Taos has a bold exterior with a redesigned bumper, grille, and standard LED projector headlights. Its compact size is perfect for urban driving while offering ample cargo space. Inside, the modern cabin boasts an 8-inch infotainment display and upgraded materials. The SE and SEL trims offer CloudTex and leather upholstery for added comfort. Advanced safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.

In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Outback emphasizes rugged versatility with its higher ground clearance and standard symmetrical AWD. The Outback’s interior is spacious, with ample room for passengers and cargo, making it suitable for long trips and outdoor adventures. It features a large 11.6-inch touch-screen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing connectivity and convenience. The Outback also includes Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which provides a suite of safety features such as adaptive cruise control, precollision braking, and lane departure warning.

When comparing the two, the Taos offers a sleek and contemporary design with a focus on urban practicality and modern technology. Its compact size and advanced safety features make it an excellent choice if you live in a city. In contrast, the Outback’s design is perfect if you seek adventure and versatility. Its spacious interior, advanced infotainment system, and robust safety features are also attractive if you have a family or are an outdoor enthusiast.

Reliability, Warranty, and Maintenance

The 2025 Volkswagen Taos is all about providing a fun and dependable ride. It comes with a solid four-year/50,000-mile warranty that covers everything from bumper to bumper. Plus, Volkswagen throws in two years or 20,000 miles of hassle-free scheduled maintenance, so you can kick back and enjoy your car without worrying.

In terms of reliability, the Taos benefits from Volkswagen’s engineering and attention to detail. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations, is essential to keep the Taos running smoothly. The vehicle’s design and build quality contribute to its overall dependability, making it a solid choice if you’re seeking a compact SUV with modern features and a comfortable ride.

The Subaru Outback, known for its durability and long-lasting performance, also offers a robust warranty package. It includes a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Subaru’s optional extended warranty plan, the Subaru Added Security extended service agreement, can cover up to 10 years or 100,000 miles. The Outback’s maintenance schedule recommends a service every 6,000 miles or six months.

The Final Verdict: Your Perfect Ride Awaits

Both the 2025 Volkswagen Taos and Subaru Outback present compelling options for different types of drivers. If you lean toward a more budget-friendly choice with modern features and great fuel efficiency, the Taos is for you. However, if you value rugged reliability and off-road capability, the Outback stands out as a strong contender.

We invite you to visit us at Kalispell Volkswagen in Montana to explore these models further. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you make the perfect choice for your lifestyle.