VW Crossover Gets Better

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2025 Volkswagen Taos represents a meaningful evolution of an already solid compact crossover.

After spending a week with the updated model, it’s clear that Volkswagen addressed the most pressing concerns from earlier versions while maintaining the vehicle’s core strengths.

The most significant improvements center on the powertrain. The revised 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder now produces 174 horsepower, up from 158 in previous models. More importantly, the new eight-speed automatic transmission replaces the problematic dual-clutch unit in all-wheel-drive models, eliminating the clunky behavior that plagued earlier Taos vehicles.

These changes deliver noticeable real-world benefits. The uncomfortable jolting when pulling away from stops has disappeared, replaced by smooth acceleration that makes city driving more pleasant.

The 2025 Volkswagen Taos features updated styling and available 19-inch black wheels while maintaining its practical proportions and efficient footprint.

The transmission no longer hunts awkwardly between gears during traffic crawling or highway merging situations.

While 0-60 mph acceleration remains modest rather than thrilling, the improved power delivery makes the Taos feel more responsive in everyday driving.

At $34,695 for the SEL trim, the Taos presents compelling value. The interior feels generous for the compact crossover class, with passenger space that rivals vehicles a size larger.

Standard features impress across the lineup. Even base models include heated steering wheels and Volkswagen’s comprehensive IQ.DRIVE suite of driver assistance technologies.

The SEL adds niceties like ventilated front seats, 10-color ambient lighting and premium materials that enhance the ownership experience.

The Taos interior emphasizes space and functionality with materials and technology features that feel more premium than the compact crossover price suggests.

On the road, the Taos delivers handling that feels more engaging than typical Toyota or Hyundai competitors. Steering provides decent feedback, and the suspension manages corners confidently without excessive understeer.

Cargo capacity proves adequate for most compact crossover duties. The 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats handles typical needs without drama.

Fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city and 33 on the highway for front-wheel-drive models remains competitive in the segment, while the improved powertrain delivers better performance without significant efficiency penalties.

The 2025 Taos succeeds as an inoffensive, well-rounded choice that avoids major flaws while delivering genuine utility.

It’s particularly well-suited for buyers seeking a compact crossover that feels substantial without the premium price of luxury alternatives.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL ($34,695). Options: 19-inch black alloy wheels ($395). Price as tested (including $1,425 destination charge): $36,515

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 105.9 in.
Length: 175.8 in.
Width: 72.5 in.
Height: 64.5 in.
Engine: Turbocharged 1.5-liter four cylinder (174 hp, 184 lbs. ft.)
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
MPG: 25 city, 33 highway

RATINGS

Style: 8
Performance: 5
Price: 9
Handling: 7
Ride: 6
Comfort: 6
Quality: 7
Overall: 7

WHY BUY IT?

The 2025 Taos offers improved powertrain performance, generous interior space and strong standard equipment in an efficiently sized package.

Posted in Volkswagen

Spacious Family Hauler

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2025 Lexus TX succeeds in delivering what three-row luxury SUV buyers most value: space, comfort and peace of mind.

After a week behind the wheel of the new F SPORT Handling variant, it’s clear that Lexus has prioritized the fundamentals that matter most to families upgrading from mainstream brands.

The TX’s interior spaciousness rivals minivans in practicality while maintaining SUV aesthetics.

With 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row expanding to 97 cubic feet with seats folded, the cargo capacity accommodates everything from a weekend’s worth of groceries to what appears to be an entire IKEA showroom.

The logical layout includes thoughtful touches such as removable cupholders and a dual-opening center console that allows both driver and passenger independent access.

Lexus introduced the F SPORT Handling grade for 2025, featuring adaptive variable suspension, 22-inch matte black wheels and sportier styling elements.

The 2025 Lexus TX F SPORT Handling comes with 22-inch matte black wheels and sportier styling while maintaining the three-row SUV’s emphasis on comfort.

While these additions provided a more dynamic appearance on my tester, the TX’s greatest strength remains its trademark smoothness and refinement. The comfortable, quiet ride quality that defines the Lexus experience takes precedence over any sporting pretensions.

The turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 275 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering adequate performance for most situations.

However, the engine lacks the refined character of Lexus’ traditional naturally aspirated powertrains. Fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 26 on the highway is respectable but not exceptional for the segment.

Where the TX truly excels is in the details that matter during daily family use. The second-row captain’s chairs offer easy third-row access via slide-assist mechanisms. Seven USB ports and three power outlets ensure everyone stays connected.

The 14-inch touchscreen provides intuitive controls, while available features such as the Mark Levinson audio system and advanced safety suite demonstrate Lexus’ commitment to premium amenities.

The TX’s spacious cabin prioritizes practicality with captain’s chairs, multiple USB ports and logical storage solutions designed for busy families.

To me, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants represent better value propositions, offering improved fuel economy and the smoother power delivery that better suits the TX’s character.

The TX 500h hybrid provides 366 horsepower while the TX 550h+ plug-in delivers 404 horsepower with 33 miles of electric range.

Materials are appropriate for the price point, though the cabin may not feel quite as luxurious as some competitors. The exterior styling, while handsome, plays it safe rather than breaking new design ground.

For families seeking a three-row luxury SUV that prioritizes comfort, space and reliability over outright performance, the TX delivers on its core mission. It’s a vehicle that understands its audience and serves them well.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Lexus TX 350 F SPORT Handling AWD ($64,410). Options: Convenience package ($895), Mark Levinson premium audio ($1,160), technology package ($1,280), cross bars ($420), rear hatch cargo lamps ($399), activity mount ($990), carpet cargo mat ($150), illuminated door sills ($809). Price as tested (including $1,350 destination charge): $71,863

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 116.14 in.
Length: 203.15 in.
Width: 78.35 in.
Height: 70.08 in.
Engine: Turbocharged 2.4-liter four cylinder (275 hp, xxx lbs. ft.)
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
MPG: 20 city, 26 highway

RATINGS

Style: 8
Performance: 6
Price: 6
Handling: 6
Ride: 9
Comfort: 9
Quality: 10
Overall: 8

WHY BUY IT?

The TX excels at family duty thanks to generous three-row space, refined ride quality and Lexus’s reputation for dependability.

Posted in Lexus

An Electric Supercar

Posted on by Derek Price
Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2025 Audi RS e-tron GT performance has completely recalibrated my understanding of acceleration.

With 912 horsepower on tap and a claimed 0-60 mph time of 2.4 seconds, this electric grand tourer delivers supercar performance that makes gasoline-powered hypercars seem almost quaint by comparison.

At $167,000 before options — $190,690 as tested — the RS e-tron GT performance occupies rarified air in the automotive world. Yet when compared to traditional supercars, it presents an almost reasonable proposition.

This Audi would outrun a Ferrari SF90 Stradale or Lamborghini Centenario in a straight line — cars that cost far more.

The fact that the Centenario, admittedly a much rarer and more exclusive car than this Audi, is said to be changing hands for $3 million on the used market makes the RS e-tron look like a screaming bargain.

What’s most remarkable isn’t just the raw speed, but how the e-tron GT delivers it.

Unlike the theatrical electric Dodge Charger I drove a few weeks ago with its booming artificial V8 soundtrack, Audi’s approach remains tastefully restrained. The acceleration feels almost supernatural in its smoothness and silence, creating an otherworldly driving experience that doesn’t announce itself to the neighborhood.

The 2025 Audi RS e-tron GT performance combines classic sporty styling with massive brake calipers and forged carbon details, creating understated visual drama that matches its 912-horsepower capability.

The car’s adaptability impresses equally. In comfort mode, it transforms into a docile grand tourer suitable for daily commuting.

Customizing the RS performance modes, however, lets the suspension drop to its lowest setting while everything stiffens for track-ready dynamics.

The adaptive air suspension even raises the entire car when you open the door to make entry easier, a thoughtful touch for a low-slung sports car.

Charging performance matches the driving dynamics. The 320 kW fast-charging capability means 10-80% charging in approximately 18 minutes, numbers that real-world testing at 350-kW chargers confirms.

The optional forged carbon package adds visual interest with its unique aesthetic.

Unlike traditional woven carbon fiber, forged carbon creates random, abstract patterns that resemble automotive art.

Combined with massive brake calipers and carbon discs that are big enough to seem borrowed from industrial mining equipment, the visual details match the performance credentials.

The RS e-tron GT’s cabin balances luxury materials with performance-focused controls, offering multiple driving modes that transform the car’s character from comfortable cruiser to track-ready weapon.

The e-tron GT’s multiple personalities become its greatest asset. It’s simultaneously a comfortable daily driver and a track-capable weapon, switching between roles with the press of a button.

This versatility, combined with the instant torque delivery that only electric motors can provide, creates a driving experience that gasoline engines simply cannot replicate.

Of course, the price remains the primary barrier.

Few can justify spending nearly $200,000 on any vehicle, regardless of performance. But as a glimpse into the future of high-performance motoring, the RS e-tron GT performance suggests that electric vehicles might eventually win over even the most devoted gasoline enthusiasts if the technology can eventually reach more accessible price points.

This Audi demonstrates that electric performance cars have moved beyond novelty into legitimate supercar territory, offering experiences that redefine expectations about speed, refinement and everyday usability.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Audi RS e-tron GT performance ($167,000). Options: Premium paint ($595), dynamic plus package ($11,000), forged carbon package ($8,400), RS design package ($1,900), red brake calipers ($500). Price as tested (including $1,295 destination charge): $190,690

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 114.2 in.
Length: 196.7 in.
Width: 84.9 in.
Height: 54.9 in.
Power: Dual electric motors (912 hp)
Range: 278 miles
MPGe: 85 city, 82 highway

RATINGS

Style: 10
Performance: 10
Price: 4
Handling: 9
Ride: 8
Comfort: 7
Quality: 8
Overall: 9

WHY BUY IT?
It delivers hypercar acceleration with grand touring comfort and impressive charging speed.

Posted in Audi

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