Inside the 2026 Volkswagen Taos: Wireless Charging and Premium Audio

The 2026 Volkswagen Taos includes two features that affect daily use for drivers in Coquitlam: wireless charging and an available premium audio system. For those who rely on smartphones for navigation, music, and hands-free calls during commutes and weekend trips across British Columbia, these technologies address practical needs.

The Taos is a compact SUV built around its 174-horsepower turbocharged engine and available 4MOTION all-wheel drive. The wireless charging keeps compatible devices powered without cables, while the available premium audio system on the Highline trim provides quality sound across the cabin. Combined with IQ.DRIVE safety features and 1,866 litres of cargo space, the Taos balances technology with the versatility needed for life in British Columbia.

Wireless Charging and Audio System

The wireless charging keeps compatible smartphones powered without cables. During daily commutes from Coquitlam to Vancouver or longer drives through the Fraser Valley, phones maintain charge throughout the journey. The system works with Qi-compatible devices and is located in the centre console for easy access.

The Volkswagen Premium Audio System on the Highline 4MOTION trim includes six speakers plus a subwoofer. The system delivers clear sound at both low and high volumes. During highway drives where road noise increases, the audio maintains quality without requiring excessive volume adjustments.

Performance and Drivetrain

The 2026 Taos uses a 1.5 L TSI turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The 8-speed automatic transmission balances responsiveness with fuel efficiency. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 7.4 L/100 km for front-wheel drive models and 8.4 L/100 km for 4MOTION all-wheel drive versions.

The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles based on traction conditions. On wet roads—common along the coast and during British Columbia's rainy season—the system helps maintain grip. The multi-link independent rear axle on 4MOTION models improves handling compared to the front-wheel drive setup.

Driving Profile Selection lets you adjust throttle response and transmission behaviour. ECO mode prioritizes fuel efficiency, while Normal mode balances performance and economy. The system adapts shift points and throttle mapping based on your selected profile.

Comparing Taos Trims

The Highline 4MOTION trim includes the premium audio system, leather seating surfaces, ventilated front seats, and satellite navigation. The Comfortline 4MOTION provides a middle option with leatherette seating, upgraded wheels, and the larger digital cockpit display. All 4MOTION trims include Hill Hold Assist and Hill Descent Control for driving on steep grades.

Technology and Driver Assistance

The Taos comes standard with IQ.DRIVE driver-assistance features across all trims:

Travel Assist combines Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, and Emergency Assist. The system maintains your set speed and adjusts automatically when traffic slows ahead. Lane Assist provides gentle steering inputs to help keep the vehicle centred in its lane during highway driving. Emergency Assist monitors driver engagement and can alert you if it detects inattention.

Side Assist monitors blind spots on both sides of the vehicle. When another vehicle enters a blind spot, an indicator appears in the corresponding mirror. Rear Traffic Alert adds cross-traffic monitoring when backing out of parking spaces, warning you of approaching vehicles that may not be visible in the mirrors.

Front Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking can detect vehicles ahead and apply brakes if a collision seems imminent. Pedestrian detection extends this protection to people crossing in front of the vehicle. The system works at speeds up to 85 km/h for pedestrian detection.

Park Distance Control on higher trims uses front and rear sensors to measure distances to nearby objects. Audio warnings increase in frequency as you approach obstacles, helping when manoeuvring in tight parking spaces.

Interior Space and Cargo Capacity

The Taos provides 1,866 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The 60/40 split-folding rear bench allows you to carry longer items while still accommodating rear passengers. For daily use, the cargo area fits grocery runs, sports equipment, or camping gear for weekend trips.

The front seats include heating across all trims. The Highline 4MOTION adds ventilation to the front seats, which helps during summer months. The driver seat on Comfortline and Highline trims includes 8-way power adjustment with memory function on the Highline. Two-way power lumbar support on the Highline trim provides adjustable lower-back support.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You can connect your smartphone without cables and access navigation, music, and messaging apps through the vehicle's display. USB Type-C ports with fast-charging performance are located throughout the cabin for charging devices during drives.

The Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro on Comfortline and Highline trims provides a 10.25-inch configurable display behind the steering wheel. You can switch between different screen layouts showing navigation, trip information, audio controls, or driver-assistance system status. Voice control handles common tasks like adjusting temperature or changing audio sources.

The myVW mobile app includes three years of myVW+ connected vehicle services. Remote Start lets you start the engine and adjust climate settings from your phone before entering the vehicle. Vehicle Health Report provides maintenance reminders and diagnostic information. Valet Alert notifies you if the vehicle exceeds preset speed or distance limits.

Safety Features

The Taos includes standard safety equipment across all trims:

• Front and Rear Side Curtain Protection with front side airbags
• Electronic Stability Control with anti-lock brakes
• Automatic detection system with audible and visual seat-belt reminders
• LED headlights with Adaptive Front-light System
• Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Vehicle anti-theft immobilizer

Higher trims add Dynamic Road Sign Display, which reads speed limit signs and displays them in the instrument cluster. Dynamic headlights with cornering lights on the Highline trim adjust beam patterns based on steering angle, improving visibility around curves.

Dimensions and Specifications

The Taos measures 4,467 mm in length with a width of 2,097 mm. The wheelbase is 2,689 mm for front-wheel drive models and 2,680 mm for 4MOTION versions. Ground clearance is 1,638 mm for front-wheel drive and 1,654 mm for 4MOTION models.

Curb weight is 1,456 kg for front-wheel drive models and 1,561 kg for 4MOTION versions. The compact size makes the Taos easier to park and manoeuvre in urban areas while maintaining adequate interior space for passengers and cargo.

Fuel Economy

Combined fuel consumption for the Taos is:

• Front-wheel drive: 7.4 L/100 km (city: 8.3 L/100 km, highway: 6.4 L/100 km)
• 4MOTION all-wheel drive: 8.4 L/100 km (city: 9.4 L/100 km, highway: 7.2 L/100 km)

The front-wheel drive configuration provides better fuel economy for drivers who primarily travel on paved roads in dry conditions. The 4MOTION system adds capability for wet weather and light off-road use with a modest increase in fuel consumption.

Experience the Taos at Journey Volkswagen of Coquitlam

The 2026 Volkswagen Taos pairs practical technology updates with proven performance and safety features. The enhanced wireless charging keeps devices powered during daily drives, while the available premium audio system improves sound quality throughout the cabin. Our team at Journey Volkswagen of Coquitlam can arrange a test drive so you can evaluate how these features work for your needs.