by Short version up front: Volkswagen’s 2024 SUV lineup stretches from compact turbocharged crossovers to full-size family SUVs and electric options. In this piece I treat the “modern hatchback redefined” idea as the thread that ties them together — compact packaging, efficient turbo power (or electrified torque), clever interior utility and everyday comfort. Below you’ll find two concise tables (technical specs and features/pricing), deep descriptions of the key 2024 VW SUVs (Taos, Tiguan, Atlas / Atlas Cross Sport, and the electric ID.4), practical ownership notes, safety/recall highlights and a clear buying verdict. No web links in the body; I’ll cite the main facts after the most important paragraphs.
Quick comparison — headline specs (table)
| Model (2024) | Engine / Motor | Power (hp) | Drivetrain | Notable range/ MPG | Seats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taos | 1.5-L turbo I4 TSI | 158 hp / 184 lb-ft | FWD or AWD (7-speed DSG on AWD) | Efficient small-crossover economy | 5 |
| Tiguan | 2.0-L turbo I4 TSI | 184 hp / 221 lb-ft | FWD standard / 4Motion AWD optional | Typical compact-SUV fuel economy | 5 (optional 3rd row in some markets) |
| Atlas / Atlas Cross Sport | 2.0-L turbo I4 (and larger V6 in some markets) | Up to ~269 hp (2.0T in Cross Sport can be high-output) | FWD / AWD | Full-size SUV fuel economy (lower than compact) | 5 / 7 (Atlas three-row) |
| ID.4 (electric) | Single / Dual electric motors | 210–330+ hp (depending on battery/motor) | RWD or AWD (dual-motor) | EPA range ~206–291 miles depending on battery/motor | 5 |
(Headline data consolidated from manufacturer and independent reviews — see the citations after the model sections for the source points.)
Features & pricing (summary table)
| Model | Typical feature highlights (2024) | Price band (U.S. guidance / market varies) |
|---|---|---|
| Taos | Turbo 1.5 TSI, touchscreen infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, driver assists, good cargo for class | Entry-level compact crossover pricing (value segment) |
| Tiguan | 2.0 TSI, 8-speed auto, available heated seats, panoramic sunroof, optional AWD, modern safety suite | Mid-tier compact SUV pricing |
| Atlas / Atlas Cross Sport | Roomy cabins (Atlas 3-row), strong torque, advanced driver assists, larger infotainment options | Full-size SUV pricing (higher than Tiguan/Taos) |
| ID.4 | 58–77 kWh battery options, RWD/AWD, fast-charging capability, modern digital cockpit, growing EV incentives | Starts in EV mainstream bracket (varies with incentives) |
Note: exact trim names, bundles and on-road prices vary widely by country and dealer options. Market taxes, import duties and incentives will materially change final cost.
Deep dive — the 2024 Volkswagen SUVs
Taos — small, turbocharged and unexpectedly spacious
The Taos is Volkswagen’s compact, budget-attentive SUV that leans on a modern small-displacement turbo engine to deliver city fuel economy with useful low-end torque. The mainstream 1.5-liter turbocharged TSI engine produces about 158 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque — enough to feel lively off the line and keep highway speeds without heavy strain. Transmission and drivetrain choices separate front-drive (simpler 8-speed automatic in some markets) from AWD models (which often get a 7-speed dual-clutch) and that helps the Taos hit a great compromise: light, efficient, and confidently composed for its class.
Why the “hatchback redefined” fits: Taos takes a small-car footprint, adds a higher ride height, flexible cargo layout and turbo low-end torque so you get hatchback practicality with SUV versatility.
Practical note: Taos is an easy choice if you want compact-city friendliness, lower running costs and a turbobed engine that avoids high displacement. It’s less ideal if you need third-row capability or towing heavy loads.
Tiguan — the middle child that aims for broad appeal
The Tiguan sits squarely in the compact-family segment where buyers balance space, tech and a refined chassis. Its 2.0-litre turbo engine (around 184 hp and 221 lb-ft) gives the Tiguan a more “grown-up” performance envelope compared to the Taos. The Tiguan often offers an 8-speed automatic, and Volkswagen’s 4Motion AWD is an option for buyers who need all-weather traction. Interior space is generous for a compact SUV, and in some markets the Tiguan is available with a small third row for added flexibility.
Why it matters: for buyers who want more torque and a more planted feel than the smallest crossovers, the Tiguan is a natural “sweet spot.” It still carries hatchback DNA in packaging and cargo flexibility, but it’s tuned and sized for family duties.
Volkswagen SUV 2024 — Turbo: A Modern Hatchback Redefined
Atlas / Atlas Cross Sport — family hauling with turbo muscle
If you need real cargo and passenger capacity (three rows or large-cargo two-row), the Atlas line answers that call. The Atlas Cross Sport trades third-row breadth for a sleeker roofline and sometimes higher-output turbo engines; some trims and markets also offer larger V6 options. Certain 2.0-litre turbo variants are tuned for notable horsepower (for example mid-to-high 200s hp levels on more performance-oriented tune), giving the Atlas family the grunt required to move fully loaded passengers. The trade-off is obvious: you gain space and power at the cost of fuel economy relative to the smaller Volkswagen SUVs.
Real-world note: the Atlas is where Volkswagen stops acting like a hatchback and starts acting like a true family Volkswagen SUV — but it retains hatchback-style versatility (split seats, large liftgate). If you’re regularly carrying 6–7 people, this is the VW choice.
ID.4 — the electric reimagination of the SUV concept
The ID.4 flips the script by offering silent, instant torque and a clean interior layout built around an electric drivetrain. For 2024 the ID.4 is available with multiple battery and motor configurations; with the larger 77 kWh pack some versions’ EPA range approaches the high-2-hundreds of miles (and power ranges up significantly in upgraded motor packages — up to the high-200s to low-300s hp in performance configurations). The ID.4’s packaging keeps cabin space generous (EVs tend to use space efficiently) and it’s one of Volkswagen’s mainstream EV pillars.
Why choose it: if lower running costs, regenerative braking convenience and a modern digital cabin are priorities, the ID.4 is a strong contender — especially where charging infrastructure and incentives are available.
Safety & recalls — what owners should know
Volkswagen’s 2024 SUV family has the usual modern safety tech: adaptive cruise, automatic emergency braking, lane assist suites, rear-view cameras and occupant protection systems. That said, some Atlas/Atlas Cross Sport model years (2021–2024) were affected by large recalls related to airbag sensor wiring potentially deactivating passenger airbags; also more recent campaigns have addressed other issues such as engine-bay cover installations in some markets. If you’re buying used, check VIN recall status and ensure dealer fixes were completed.
Practical ownership notes
- Maintenance & parts: VW’s network and parts availability vary by region. Generally, turbocharged engines need routine maintenance (oil/filters) on schedule — neglect shortens turbo life.
- Fuel vs. electrified ownership: Turbo Volkswagen SUVs (Taos/Tiguan/Atlas) deliver conventional refuel convenience; ID.4 shifts costs from fuel to electricity and charging access — factor in home charging or public fast-charging availability.
- Resale & value: compact turbo Volkswagen SUVs are popular in many markets for their efficiency and flexibility; EV resale depends heavily on local EV demand and incentives.
- Towing: the Atlas family is the most capable for towing among these; Taos and Tiguan are light-duty at best. Check exact tow ratings for the trim and market before towing.
Buying guidance — who each model is for
- Taos — buyers who want efficient, small-Volkswagen SUV practicality with a lively turbo-engine and low ownership cost.
- Tiguan — buyers needing a bit more interior space, comfort and mid-range performance; great as a daily family car.
- Atlas / Atlas Cross Sport — families requiring three-row seating (Atlas) or larger two-row cargo (Cross Sport) and willing to accept lower MPG for space.
- ID.4 — buyers committed to electrification who have reliable access to charging and want quiet, quick torque and modern digital features.
Verdict (short)
Volkswagen’s 2024 SUV range offers a spectrum: from the compact turbo Taos up to the family-focused Atlas, plus the electric ID.4 that rethinks what an Volkswagen SUV can be. The common thread is that VW applies efficient turbo technology (or electric torque) to vehicles that keep hatchback practicality (flexible cargo, compact usability) while adding SUV versatility — hence “Turbo: a modern hatchback redefined.” If you want targeted recommendations (best trim for your budget, or a side-by-side spec sheet for two models) tell me your market and approximate budget and I’ll build the direct comparison. (Car)
Key citations (most load-bearing facts above)
- Taos 1.5 TSI power & torque, transmission details.
- Tiguan 2.0 TSI power & AWD option.
- ID.4 battery options, range and power improvements on larger pack.
- Atlas / Cross Sport engine options and higher-output 2.0T tuning in some trims.
- Large recalls affecting Atlas/Atlas Cross Sport 2021–2024 model years (safety note).
