Autoblog - 2022 VW Taos First Drive
This looks like a VERY solid subcompact CUV entry from VW. Well I should say their 2nd attempt as this is really the successor to Tiguan 1.0 like the article points out. Tiguan 1.0 never really fit in the NA market with it designed more for UK/EU market.
Cliffs notes:
- Larger than typical subcompact CUV but smaller than compact CUV (RAV4, CR-V, etc.).
- 1.5T (158 HP/184 lb/ft). 8 speed torque converter automatic on FWD. 7 speed DSG on AWD.
- Torsion beam rear on FWD, multi-link on AWD.
- 28/36 MPG FWD, 25/32 AWD.
The MPG penalty for the AWD is pretty significant - wonder how much is attributable to the DSG. For comparison the Tiguan 1.8T AWD loses 2 mpg city and 2 mpg hwy and I'm guessing the systems are very similar (outside the DSG).
The interior is visually appealing but like other current gen VW's some interior materials have gone down in tactile quality but much of it is non-touch or low touch areas. Switchgear, infotainment, etc. is parts bin VW but that is not a bad thing as VW does pretty well with all these items.
I am not nor have I ever been a fan of the CUV for everyone craze but I have to say I would look at and consider it. I find this package incredibly handsome.