2022 VW Taos: A Comprehensive Review of Volkswagen's Compact SUV
The 2022 Volkswagen Taos is a compact SUV that blends practicality, modern design, and efficient performance. As Volkswagen's entry into the competitive subcompact SUV segment, the Taos offers a compelling mix of features, comfort, and value. With its sleek exterior, spacious interior, and advanced technology, the Taos is designed to appeal to urban drivers and small families alike. This article provides an in-depth look at the 2022 VW Taos, covering its key features, performance, safety, and how it stacks up against competitors.
Volkswagen introduced the Taos as a replacement for the Tiguan in certain markets, positioning it as a more affordable and fuel-efficient alternative.
In this review, we will explore the Taos's design, interior comfort, technology, safety features, and performance. Additionally, a comparison table will highlight how the Taos measures up against other popular compact SUVs in its class. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of whether the 2022 VW Taos is the right choice for your needs.
The 2022 Volkswagen Taos is a compact SUV that offers a blend of style, efficiency, and practicality. It features a modern design with sharp lines, a bold front grille, and LED lighting, giving it a distinctive presence on the road. Inside, the Taos provides a spacious cabin with high-quality materials and user-friendly technology. Under the hood, it is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a balance of power and fuel economy. The Taos is available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, making it versatile for various driving conditions.
Design and Exterior
The 2022 VW Taos boasts a sleek and contemporary design that aligns with Volkswagen's latest styling language. The front end features a prominent grille with chrome accents, flanked by standard LED headlights and daytime running lights. The SUV's compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in urban environments, while its raised ground clearance and available AWD system enhance its capability on rougher terrain. The Taos also offers a range of exterior color options, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle to their taste.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Taos offers a well-appointed cabin with ample space for five passengers. The seats are supportive and comfortable, with available heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat in higher trims. The rear seats provide generous legroom, making it suitable for longer trips. Cargo space is competitive for the segment, with 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 65.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The interior materials are of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces and thoughtful storage solutions throughout.
Technology and Infotainment
The Taos comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims offer a larger 10.25-inch digital cockpit display and wireless charging. The system is intuitive and responsive, with physical buttons for essential functions to minimize distractions. Other available tech features include a premium audio system, navigation, and multiple USB ports for device charging.
Safety Features
Volkswagen has equipped the 2022 Taos with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard safety tech includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian monitoring. Available features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Taos also earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Taos is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission for FWD models and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for AWD models. Fuel efficiency is a strong point, with FWD models achieving up to 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. AWD models are slightly less efficient but still competitive in the segment.
Comparison Table: 2022 VW Taos vs. Competitors
| Feature | 2022 VW Taos | 2022 Honda HR-V | 2022 Mazda CX-30 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $24,190 | $22,900 | $23,000 |
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo | 1.8L Naturally Aspirated | 2.5L Naturally Aspirated |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 141 hp | 186 hp |
| Fuel Economy (FWD) | 28/36 mpg | 28/34 mpg | 25/33 mpg |
| Cargo Space | 27.9 cu ft | 24.3 cu ft | 20.2 cu ft |
| Infotainment Screen | 8-inch | 7-inch | 8.8-inch |
Final Thoughts
The 2022 Volkswagen Taos is a well-rounded compact SUV that offers a compelling mix of style, efficiency, and technology. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and competitive pricing make it a strong contender in its segment. While it may not be the most powerful option, its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride quality make it an excellent choice for daily commuting and weekend getaways. For those seeking a reliable and stylish compact SUV, the Taos is certainly worth considering.
References:
Volkswagen Official Website
NHTSA
IIHS
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