Volkswagen Taos 2022: A Positive Step in the Right Direction
The 2022 Volkswagen Taos has arrived to fill the growing demand for small crossovers, adding another appealing option for buyers in search of compact SUVs. With many brands rushing to produce subcompact SUVs, the Taos makes a statement by blending Volkswagen’s signature driving dynamics with affordable pricing. It comes with a stylish design, plenty of interior space, and just enough tech to stay competitive in today’s market. But like any vehicle, it is not without flaws. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the pros, cons, and reviews of the Volkswagen Taos 2022 while keeping it simple, relatable, and professional.
Overview of the 2022 Volkswagen Taos
The Volkswagen Taos sits just below the larger Tiguan, making it Volkswagen’s smallest SUV in North America. It's available in three trims: S, SE, and SEL, each offering a unique set of features at different price points. This car is tailored for drivers who want something more agile than a mid-size SUV but bigger than a sedan. Volkswagen aimed for a balance, and for the most part, they hit the mark.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 158 hp
- Torque: 184 lb-ft
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic (FWD), 7-speed DSG dual-clutch (AWD)
- Fuel Economy: 28/36 MPG (FWD), 25/32 MPG (AWD)
- Cargo Capacity: 27.9 cu-ft (rear seats up), 65.9 cu-ft (folded)
- Starting Price: Around $24,000
“The Taos makes a solid first impression” said Alex Collantes, a car enthusiast who recently took one for a spin. “Volkswagen kept the interior simple yet practical and you don’t feel overwhelmed with tech. It’s like they knew exactly how much tech the average driver actually needs.”
Performance and Driving Experience
When it comes to performance, the Taos offers a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine capable of producing 158 horsepower. While that’s not a jaw-dropping figure, it’s plenty for day-to-day driving and more than sufficient for highway cruising. The 8-speed automatic transmission in the front-wheel-drive model shifts smoothly and keeps things simple. If you opt for all-wheel drive, Volkswagen swaps in a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, which gives the car a sportier feel.
What We Like About the Performance
- The turbo engine provides quick throttle response
- Comfortable ride quality on highways and city streets
- Good fuel economy, especially with the FWD configuration
- All-wheel-drive is available for those in colder climates
Potential Drawbacks
- Engine noise can be noticeable under hard acceleration
- The AWD version uses a DSG transmission which can feel jerky at low speeds
- Doesn’t offer the same punch as rivals like the Mazda CX-30
Interior and Comfort
Volkswagen has a reputation for building well-designed cabins, and the Taos sticks to that formula. Inside, you’ll find a combination of soft-touch materials and durable plastics. While it may not feel as upscale as some competitors, the layout is intuitive and functional. Passengers will appreciate the spacious rear seat, which is rare in this segment. Even taller adults won’t feel cramped.
- Infotainment System: 6.5-inch display on the base model, 8-inch available on higher trims
- Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic available in SE and SEL trims
- Seating: Cloth upholstery on S trim, leatherette and heated seats on SE
Collantes described his experience in the cabin as “practical and straightforward” saying “the seats are supportive enough for long drives but don’t expect any luxury touches in the base trim. The SE trim hits the sweet spot if you want a bit more comfort without spending too much.”
Drawbacks to Watch Out For
- The infotainment system can feel a little sluggish
- Some interior plastics feel cheap compared to rivals
- No power-adjustable passenger seat even in the higher trims
Cargo Space and Practicality
The Volkswagen Taos excels in cargo capacity with 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 65.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. That’s more room than many of its competitors in the same class, including the Subaru Crosstrek and Kia Seltos. The low loading floor makes it easier to pack large items.
Storage Highlights
- Split-folding rear seats allow more flexibility
- Adjustable cargo floor offers extra hidden storage
- Lots of cubbies and compartments for small items
Areas That Could Be Improved
- No hands-free power liftgate option
- Rear seats don't fold completely flat
Technology and Infotainment
Volkswagen didn't go overboard with tech, which is a good thing for drivers who prefer simplicity. The Taos offers a digital cockpit on higher trims, giving the dashboard a sleek, modern feel. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all models, ensuring your phone stays connected without any hassle.
Key Tech Features
- Digital Cockpit: Standard on SEL trim
- Wireless smartphone charging: Available on SE and SEL
- Adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist
Collantes shared “I love that they didn’t stuff the Taos with too much tech. It’s got what you need and nothing more. And honestly, that’s a relief because sometimes you just want to drive without fighting with screens.”
Technology Issues
- The base model display is smaller than most rivals
- Some driver assistance features only come with higher trims
- Voice recognition system isn’t always accurate
Safety Features
Volkswagen takes safety seriously, and the Taos includes a solid set of driver assistance features. Standard safety tech includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Buyers who want more advanced options can opt for the SEL trim, which adds adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Standard and Available Safety Features
- Forward Collision Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Adaptive Cruise Control (available on higher trims)
Safety Downsides
- Some advanced features are not available on lower trims
- Crash-test scores were good but not class-leading
Price and Value
Volkswagen priced the Taos competitively starting around $24,000 for the base S trim. Moving up to the SE trim adds some useful features without breaking the bank, while the top-tier SEL trim pushes the price closer to $32,000. Compared to competitors, the Taos offers a lot of value for the money especially if you choose the mid-level SE trim.
Trim Levels and Pricing Breakdown
- S Trim: Basic features starting around $24,000
- SE Trim: Additional tech and comfort for about $28,000
- SEL Trim: Fully loaded at approximately $32,000
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Volkswagen Taos?
The Volkswagen Taos 2022 strikes a good balance between affordability and practicality. It delivers decent performance a spacious interior and competitive fuel economy, making it a solid choice for families or individuals who need a compact SUV without compromising on space.
However, the Taos does have a few rough edges, especially with transmission performance in the AWD models and some cheap-feeling interior plastics. It won’t deliver the same sporty driving experience as some rivals, but for the average driver looking for reliability and versatility, it’s worth a test drive.
Collantes sums it up well by saying “If you’re looking for an SUV that doesn’t try too hard but still gets the job done, the Taos is a great pick. It’s practical, efficient, and easy to live with. Sure, it’s not perfect but what car really is?”
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros
- Spacious interior and cargo capacity
- Good fuel economy for the class
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Engine can be noisy under stress
- Some interior materials feel cheap
- AWD transmission feels jerky at low speeds
The Volkswagen Taos 2022 has its quirks but at the end of the day it offers good value for the money. It’s not trying to be flashy—it’s here to provide a straightforward driving experience, and in that regard, it succeeds. If you’re shopping for a small SUV with plenty of space, tech, and fuel efficiency, the Taos should be on your shortlist.