CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 40.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,200
Average Price: Around £18,000

Volkswagen Taigo Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Top-spec engine impresses	Some interior quality issues
Generous standard equipment	Pricey compared with more practical T-Cross
Spacious, with a particularly large boot	Not that enjoyable to drive

Quick Summary

The Volkswagen Taigo is a small and stylish crossover launched in 2021, offering a compelling blend of space and practicality. Based on the Polo platform, it features turbocharged petrol engines ranging from 94bhp to 148bhp, with manual and automatic transmission options. The Taigo excels in interior space, with a generous 440-litre boot and excellent rear legroom that surpasses rivals like the Ford Puma. Its comfortable ride quality and comprehensive standard equipment across all trim levels make it an attractive proposition for families seeking a practical daily driver.

However, the Taigo's appeal is tempered by disappointing interior quality for its price point, with cheap plastics and low-rent materials evident throughout the cabin. Whilst the top-spec 1.5-litre engine delivers impressive performance, the smaller 1.0-litre units feel underpowered for those seeking a sportier drive. The light steering provides minimal feedback, making it less engaging on twisty roads compared to the Ford Puma. Running costs are reasonable, with the smaller engines achieving close to 50mpg, though the 1.5-litre manages around 40mpg in real-world driving. As a used car, the Taigo represents decent value, with strong residual values due to the popularity of the small SUV segment.

Best for: Buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable family car with striking styling and the Volkswagen badge appeal, those prioritising practicality and generous standard equipment, and drivers wanting a reliable daily commuter.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking engaging driving dynamics, those prioritising premium interior quality, budget-conscious buyers (compared with the Polo), or drivers requiring all-wheel drive capability.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Taigo if: You're seeking a spacious, comfortable family car with striking styling and Volkswagen badge appeal, prioritising practicality and generous standard equipment, or wanting a reliable daily commuter.

Consider alternatives if: You desire engaging driving dynamics, prioritise premium interior quality, are budget-conscious, or require all-wheel drive capability.

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Taigo is a competent contender in the small SUV segment, offering excellent space and practicality at a reasonable price. Whilst it delivers generous standard equipment and a spacious interior, it falls short of the Ford Puma's engaging driving dynamics and superior build quality. The Seat Arona provides a more premium feel, whilst the Nissan Juke offers similar practicality. For buyers prioritising comfort and space over driving excitement, the Taigo represents solid value, though the Ford Puma remains the segment's standout choice for those seeking a more rewarding driving experience.

Read our full Volkswagen Taigo Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.