VW is finally entering the subcompact SUV segment in North America. Moreover, we won’t see a U.S. version of models like T-Roc, but rather a completely new vehicle, designed for this part of the world in particular. It is coming as 2022 VW Taos and we expect its launch next spring. At this point, some of the things are already known, while details are yet to come.
The prototype has already been on the road, so we can clearly see its styling, which isn’t particularly different from the rest of VW’s lineup. Also, we know the engine for this small crossover, while the interior look has been revealed as well.
2022 VW Taos Redesign
When it comes to the overall design, the first thing that we should mention is that the 2022 VW Taos is coming in a typical VW manner. It rides on a familiar MQB platform and borrows a lot of parts and design solutions from the Tiguan. It is smaller than its bigger sibling but not significantly, and that’s quite easy to notice when you step inside. This crossover measures around 105.9 inches in wheelbase, which even longer compared to some models in the compact SUV segment. The overall length goes around 175.8 inches.
When it comes to the styling, things are pretty typical for this carmaker. The new model sticks with the brand’s latest design language and takes a lot of inspiration from the bigger siblings. All this means you may count on a super-conservative long, which is far from the most stylish models in the segment. It doesn’t look particularly rugged either, though the overall impression is pretty nice. VW drivers traditionally don’t care too much about aesthetics, but rather about good ride quality and practicality, and we will get on that in a minute.
Interior
Once again, you may count on a typical VW approach. From what we can see in the photos, the dashboard looks typically conservative for this manufacturer. It is a clash of bland lines and lots of modern tech features, and the result is a relatively appealing design. We like the fact that the company’s excellent digital instrument cluster will be part of the standard equipment. In terms of the infotainment, a 6.5-inch touchscreen will be standard, while the bigger 8-inch unit will be in the offer too.
One of the strongest of the 2022 VW Taos will be interior space. As we already mentioned, it measures nearly 106 inches in wheelbase, which provides a lot of room on the inside. For example, you may count on about 38 inches of legroom in the second row. For comparison, the Tiguan offers 38.7 inches. When it comes to the cargo area, you may count on about 28 cubic feet behind the second row and 66 cubic feet of the total cargo volume. Those are solid ratings for the segment.
2022 VW Taos Engine
When it comes to the powertrain, the German manufacturer will initially offer one engine option, though we count on additional options in the future. It is a 1.5-liter turbo-four engine, which may be new in North America, but it is a pretty familiar unit in Europe, where it powers models like Golf Mk8, Skoda Octavia etc. In this particular version, it features a max output of 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It will come coupled with 8-speed automatic transmission.
One of the things we definitely need to mention is the suspension setup. Unfortunately, base models will feature a rear suspension with a torsion beam, while a modern multi-link suspension will be reserved for higher trim levels. That seems quite disappointing for a model that will feature an above-average starting price for a subcompact crossover.
2022 VW Taos Release Date and Price
We expect to see the 2022 VW Taos next spring. According to the latest estimations, base models will to around 24.000 dollars. Some of the key competitors should be models like Mazda CX-30, Honda HR-V, Nissan Rogue Sport etc.