MODEL
Volkswagen Taos Safety
NHTSA safety across every Volkswagen Taos model year we cover.
Across the 5 model years of the Volkswagen Taos we cover (2022 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2024 at 91 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2022 at 79. 9 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Volkswagen Taos is a compact crossover SUV slotted below the Tiguan in VW's lineup, aimed squarely at buyers who want a European-flavored driving experience in a practical, right-sized package. It competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market, appealing to urban commuters and small families who prioritize composed handling and interior refinement over outright cargo volume.
The 2024 Volkswagen Taos achieved an exceptional Safety Index score of 91 out of 100, the highest in its generation. This strong performance, however, is not uniformly distributed across all crash-test categories. While it earned a 5 out of 5 star rating in side-impact protection, both frontal impact and rollover resistance were rated at 4 out of 5 stars. These results indicate competent performance, but they do not match the top tier across the board. Across the 2022 through 2025 model years, the Taos has been subject to 8 recalls. This figure, for a vehicle introduced to the US market in 2022, suggests an active effort by the manufacturer to address issues, but it also means that owners of earlier models should confirm their vehicle's recall status. Owner complaints number 453, with 8 reported crashes and 2 reported injuries. While these are unverified reports, their volume warrants consideration. The 2024 Taos stands as the most robust option in its lineup from a safety perspective; earlier model years present a less certain safety profile.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Taos for its composed, car-like driving dynamics and well-finished interior relative to its price point in the compact crossover segment. Most find it engaging to drive but note that cargo space and rear-seat room lag behind some rivals. Overall, the sentiment leans positive, with the driving experience cited most consistently as a standout quality.
- The 2024 Taos achieved the highest NHTSA Safety Index in this generation at 91 out of 100, earning an Exceptional band rating, making it the strongest model year for safety performance in our covered range.
- Side-impact crash protection earns a perfect 5 out of 5 stars, but frontal and rollover ratings both sit at 4 out of 5 stars, so the safety profile is not uniform across all crash scenarios.
- Eight recalls have been issued across the 2022 to 2025 model years, which is a relatively high count for such a short production window. Prospective buyers should run their VIN through NHTSA's recall database to confirm all open recalls have been remedied.
- Owner complaints total 453 across covered years, with 8 reported crashes and 2 reported injuries noted in the unverified filings. While these are allegations and not confirmed findings, the complaint volume is worth factoring into your due diligence, particularly on earlier model years.
Most-recalled year on record: 2022 Volkswagen Taos with 6 recalls.