Arriving in 2021 for the 2022 model year is the latest SUV offering from Volkswagen, the Taos. Heading for the small SUV class, the new 2022 Volkswagen Taos is compact but it’s big on features and brings some new things to its segment. If you love the Volkswagen Golf, you’ll definitely want to take a closer look at this SUV.

What is the new Taos like? Here is what we know at this point.

If you like the VW Golf . . .

According to U.S. News, the current trends show consumers moving away from standard passenger cars and migrating toward crossovers and SUVs. In an effort to hang onto loyal customers, automakers have been developing crossovers for various vehicle segments. If you liked the Civic in the past but want to try an SUV, Honda hopes you try the CR-V. 

Likewise, Volkswagen is hoping Golf fans will give the forthcoming Taos a try.

Somewhere between a subcompact and compact crossover, U.S. News explains that it’s smaller than many compacts but big for a subcompact. It’s shorter than the 2020 VW Tiguan with a two-row configuration by 9.3 inches. VW also has the three-row Atlas and the two-row Atlas Cross Sport in its SUV stable.

What the Volkswagen Taos has to offer

The new Taos takes styling cues from both the Atlas and the VW Tiguan. It’s small but has a rugged look that many will appreciate. The interior is similar to other VW models and makes excellent use of available space.

The Taos will offer the great several advanced safety and driver-assist features Volkswagen is known for. One drawback is that you won’t be able to get them standard as you can with some of its peers in the segment. Still, you get a roomy back seat and decent cargo space.

All models do get the IQ DRIVE package which offers adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Adaptive headlights, automatic high-beam headlights, and park distance control are also available. 

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos will have a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen standard with a Wi-Fi hotspot that will require a subscription for use. The latest VW MIB3 infotainment system and 8-inch touchscreen are available. Though it hasn’t been confirmed, it’s believed the Taos will offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrations.

Under the hood is the updated 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine used in the Jetta. It gets 158 hp with 184 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission for models equipped with front-wheel drive. There’s a 4Motion all-wheel drive available with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The ride, according to Car and Driver, has low-speed thrust, a smooth transmission, and an effective suspension.

You do get automatic headlights and push-button start standard. You also get dual-zone automatic climate control, heated or heated and ventilated front seats, keyless entry, and rain-sensing wipers. There’s also a panoramic glass roof available.

It’s coming soon

When it debuts, the Taos will offer three trims: S, SE, and SEL. The base model S has automatic headlights, two-tone cloth seats, and a digital instrument panel. The SEL is the top-shelf trim level. Unless VW deviates from its normal way of operating, there could be a sporty R-Line model released after the debut.

Details about the cost haven’t been released but most industry experts expect that the starting price will be from $22,000 to $24,000. The price range would make it competitive with most of its peers. 

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos will be available in the second quarter of 2021 as a 2022 model. It’s produced at VW’s production facility in Puebla, Mexico.