Volkswagen Taro
A German-badged workhorse born from a strategic partnership with Toyota.
- Power
- 83 bhp
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$10k
About the Volkswagen Taro
The Volkswagen Taro was the result of a joint venture between Volkswagen and Toyota, essentially serving as a rebadged fifth-generation Toyota Hilux. Built at VW's Hanover plant and Toyota's Tahara plant, it was designed to fill a gap in Volkswagen's commercial vehicle lineup for a one-tonne payload pickup. The 2.4-litre diesel variant was the mainstay of the range, valued more for its legendary durability and mechanical simplicity than its modest performance. While it lacks the refinement of modern trucks, its shared DNA with the Hilux has earned it a reputation for being nearly indestructible among enthusiasts and tradespeople.
Volkswagen Taro specs
The Volkswagen Taro produces 83 bhp (62 kW) and 165 Nm (122 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Volkswagen |
|---|---|
| Model | Taro |
| Trim | 2.4 D |
| Years | 1989–1997 |
| Type | Truck |
| Body style | Pick-up |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 2.4-litre diesel inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,446 cc (2.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 83 bhp (62 kW) at 4,200 rpm |
| Torque | 165 Nm (122 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,800 rpm |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,540 kg (3,395 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 54 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Volkswagen Taro worth?
A typical Volkswagen Taro is estimated to be worth $3,500 – $10,000 (about £2,600 – £7,500).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Volkswagen Taro rarity in CarSpot
The Volkswagen Taro is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 8 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Volkswagen Taro fun facts
- The name 'Taro' follows Volkswagen's tradition of naming commercial vehicles with suffixes ending in 'o', but it is also a Japanese name, nodding to its Toyota roots.
- Because it is mechanically identical to the Toyota Hilux (N80/N90/N110), most parts are completely interchangeable between the two models.
- The partnership ended in 1997 because sales failed to meet Volkswagen's expectations, leading them to eventually develop the Amarok independently years later.