2022 VW Taos: A Comprehensive Review of Volkswagen’s Compact SUV

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos is a compact SUV that combines style, efficiency, and functionality. It features a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with either an eight-speed automatic transmission (front-wheel drive) or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (all-wheel drive). The Taos offers a smooth ride, responsive handling, and impressive fuel economy, making it an excellent choice for daily commuting and weekend getaways. Its interior is spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. Safety is also a strong suit, with standard features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
Performance and Engine Options
The 2022 VW Taos is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel-drive models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel-drive versions use a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The Taos delivers a balanced mix of power and efficiency, with EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models. All-wheel-drive versions are slightly less efficient, with ratings of 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
Interior and Comfort
The Taos boasts a well-designed interior with ample space for passengers and cargo. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives, while the rear seats offer generous legroom for a vehicle in this class. Standard features include cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trims add premium touches like synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a larger 8-inch touchscreen. Cargo space is competitive, with 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 65.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Technology and Infotainment
The 2022 Taos comes equipped with Volkswagen’s latest infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard. The base model features a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims upgrade to an 8-inch display with navigation. Other available tech features include a digital gauge cluster, wireless charging, and a premium BeatsAudio sound system. The Taos also offers a suite of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, depending on the trim level.
Safety Features
Safety is a priority in the 2022 VW Taos, which comes standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Available safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Taos has earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it a reliable choice for families.
Comparison Table: 2022 VW Taos vs. Competitors
Feature | 2022 VW Taos | 2022 Honda HR-V | 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross | 2022 Mazda CX-30 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Engine | 1.5L Turbo | 1.8L Naturally Aspirated | 2.0L Naturally Aspirated | 2.5L Naturally Aspirated |
Horsepower | 158 hp | 141 hp | 169 hp | 186 hp |
Fuel Economy (FWD) | 28/36 mpg | 28/34 mpg | 31/33 mpg | 25/33 mpg |
Cargo Space (seats up) | 27.9 cu ft | 24.3 cu ft | 26.5 cu ft | 20.2 cu ft |
Starting Price | $24,190 | $22,900 | $23,410 | $23,000 |
Pros and Cons
The 2022 VW Taos has several strengths, including its fuel-efficient engine, spacious interior, and advanced safety features. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as a less powerful base engine compared to some rivals and a higher starting price. Overall, the Taos is a well-rounded SUV that offers a premium feel and practicality for its size.
For more information, visit the official Volkswagen website: www.vw.com or check out reviews from trusted automotive sources like Car and Driver and Edmunds .