Many German vehicles carry substantial price tags, but this isn’t the case with the 2022 Volkswagen Taos. It starts at a reasonable $24,190. This affordable price point could be an important factor in the success of the Taos as it enters the competitive small SUV segment. Here’s everything you can expect from the Taos, including its range of trim levels and pricing options.

2022 Volkswagen Taos trim levels and pricing

According to MotorTrend, the 2022 Volkswagen Taos has three trim levels: the base-level S, the mid-level SE, and the top-tier SEL. The S model starts at $24,190. It comes standard with front-wheel drive but offers the option of adding 4Motion all-wheel drive. This adds $2,045 to the price tag. You may also choose the IQ Drive safety package, which costs another $100 and includes blind-spot monitoring.

Upgrading to the SE will bump up the price to $28,440. This mid-level trim also offers several options at an additional cost. For $895, you can add the IQ Drive active safety feature bundle. It includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. An extra $395 will get you black-painted wheels, and for $1,200, you can also add a panoramic glass roof.

Finally, the top-of-the-line SEL trim starts at $32,685. With the exception of the panoramic glass roof, every optional feature on the SE comes standard on the SEL. This trim level also comes standard with features such as leather seats, automatic high beams, a 10.25-inch display, and an illuminated front grille. You can also add all-wheel drive for $1,555.

How the Volkswagen Taos compares to others in the segment

As a subcompact SUV, the Volkswagen Taos is trying to succeed in a highly competitive segment. In fact, MotorTrend notes that there are currently upwards of 20 different small SUVs to choose from, meaning that any new vehicle in this class needs to be a real standout if it wants to perform well.

Fortunately, the starting price of the Taos is on the low end, making it competitive with its rivals. According to MotorTrend, its MSRP makes the Taos just slightly more expensive than the Subaru Crosstrek, which starts at $23,295. The Taos is slightly more affordable than the Jeep Renegade, which starts at $24,345. It is also worth noting that the Taos is the only German vehicle in the subcompact SUV class, which may give it an extra edge among buyers who favor German automakers.

What to expect from this small SUV

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that makes 158 hp. According to MotorTrend, this vehicle has recently earned class-leading fuel efficiency. When equipped with front-wheel drive, it’s estimated to get 28 mpg in the city, 36 mpg on the highway, and 31 mpg combined. This puts it on par with rivals such as the Hyundai Venue, Kia Soul, and Honda HR-V.

Standard features on the Taos include an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster, push-button ignition, and automatic LED headlights. It also features stability-enhancing systems such as electronic brake pressure distribution and electronic stability control.

We expect the 2022 Volkswagen Taos to hit the market this June. Although some of its specifications might be subject to change during production, the automaker seems to be setting the Taos up for success. Its affordable price point and class-leading fuel efficiency help make this vehicle stand out in the crowded subcompact SUV segment.