The 2026 Volkswagen Taos comes with front-wheel drive on the entry Trendline and 4MOTION all-wheel drive on every other trim. FWD gives you more cargo space and lower fuel use. 4MOTION gives you better traction pulling away on snow, slush, and steep wet hills. For North Shore drivers, the deciding question is how often you drive above the snow line in winter.
What is the difference between the Taos FWD and 4MOTION?
| Spec | Taos FWD | Taos 4MOTION |
|---|---|---|
| Trims | Trendline | Trendline 4MOTION, Comfortline 4MOTION, Comfortline Black Edition 4MOTION, Highline 4MOTION |
| Engine | 1.5 L turbo, 174 hp, 184 lb-ft | Same |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Cargo behind rear seats | 790 L | 705 L |
| Cargo, seats folded | 1,866 L | 1,705 L |
| Fuel, combined | 7.4 L/100 km | 8.4 L/100 km |
| Standard wheels (Trendline) | 17-inch | 18-inch |
What do you give up with 4MOTION?
Some cargo space and some fuel. The AWD hardware sits under the cargo floor, so the load area behind the rear seats drops from 790 L to 705 L. Fuel use rises by 1.0 L/100 km combined, which works out to about 150 L more fuel a year if you drive 15,000 km.
What do you gain with 4MOTION?
Traction when accelerating. 4MOTION sends power to all four wheels when it detects slip, which helps when pulling away on a snowy driveway, climbing a steep wet street, or merging from a slushy on-ramp. That matters on the upper streets of North and West Vancouver, on the roads to the local ski hills, and on the Sea to Sky in winter. 4MOTION models also get a multi-link independent rear suspension.
Is the Taos FWD good in snow?
With proper winter tires, a front-wheel-drive Taos handles typical Lower Mainland winters well, because the engine's weight sits over the driven wheels. Where FWD struggles is starting from a stop on steep, snow-covered hills. If your home or regular route has one, 4MOTION is worth the trade.
Does AWD replace winter tires?
No. AWD helps you get moving. It does not help you stop or turn, because braking and cornering grip come from the tires. A Taos FWD on winter tires will stop shorter on snow than a Taos 4MOTION on worn all-seasons. BC also requires winter-rated tires on designated highways, including the Sea to Sky, from October 1.
Which Taos should you choose?
Choose FWD if you mostly drive in the city and on the Upper Levels, rarely go above the snow line, and want the most cargo space and lowest fuel use. Choose 4MOTION if you live on a steep street, ski regularly, drive the Sea to Sky in winter, or want the extra margin when the weather turns.
Try both at Capilano Volkswagen
The 2026 Taos is in stock at Capilano Volkswagen, 1151 Marine Drive in North Vancouver. Bring the gear you carry most, check it in both cargo areas, and ask about winter tire packages for whichever version you choose.
