Talking Cars 471: Driving the Freshened 2025 Volkswagen Taos

Plus, we answer questions about the Subaru Forester Hybrid and ICCU issues that plague some Hyundai EVs

Jon Linkov, Consumer Reports Autos Editor.

By Jon Linkov
Autos Editor

April 30, 2025

Main theme: For the 2025 model year, Volkswagen gave its Taos compact SUV some freshened styling, updated the interior technology, and significantly improved the powertrain. Gone is the balky dual-clutch automatic gearbox that the SUV debuted with in 2022, which we called in our road test an "obstreperous powertrain that would keep us from buying it." In its place is an eight-speed automatic transmission that is far better suited to the small 1.5-liter turbocharged engine—which gains a useful 16 hp for 2025 (torque remains the same at 184 ft.-lb.). The Taos is more driveable than before, but is that enough to be competitive in the class?

Audience Questions:
• Is it worth taking the risk on buying a first-year model when the SUV in question is a Subaru Forester Hybrid?

• Why do the non-Supercharger charging networks have so many issues when trying to charge an EV? And are these issues going to be resolved anytime soon?

• What is the "ICCU" issue that Hyundai Ioniq 5 EVs suffer from?

Talking Cars Episode 471 panel — “Talking Cars” panelists (from left) Jon Linkov, Steve Elek, and Gabe Shenhar.

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Recent Episodes

• 2025 New York Auto Show Highlights, episode 470
• Driving the 2025 Nissan Murano, episode 469
• Driving the Toyota Crown Signia, episode 468
• Driving the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, episode 467
• 10 Top Picks of 2025, episode 466

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Jon Linkov

Jon Linkov is the deputy auto editor at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2002, covering varied automotive topics including buying and leasing, maintenance and repair, ownership, reliability, used cars, and electric vehicles. He manages CR’s lineup of special interest publications, hosts CR’s “Talking Cars” podcast, and writes and edits content for CR’s online and print products. An avid cyclist, Jon also enjoys driving his ’80s-era sports car and instructing at track days.