2022 Taos Front End. Photo: Sara Lacey
It wasn’t a long test drive, but that doesn’t mean the Taos didn’t create some longing in me.
I drove the 2022 Volkswagen Taos around L.A. recently. This compact SUV was great for zipping around town, merging onto the highway and parking in tight parking lots. A tad smaller than the Tiguan and a mini-version of the Atlas, the Taos (priced at about $23,000 to just under $30,000) has all the good looks and tech features of the VW SUV family, but in a just-right size. Here are five of my favorite parts.
Related: Hey Goldilocks, Which Volkswagen SUV is Right for You? Comparing the VW Atlas, VW Tiguan and VW Taos
2022 Volkswagen Taos Rear End. Photo: Sara Lacey
First Thing to Love: The Color!
I mean, come on. Look at that blue. Volkswagen calls it Cornflower Blue, and I call it stunning. It really stands out in a sea of white, black, and gray vehicles out on the road. It makes the Taos look fast and sporty but not in the obvious way red does. Cornflower Blue is only available in Taos SE and Taos SEL trims. If you can swing it, I highly recommend splurging for the standout color.
Related: 2022 Volkswagen Taos: The Small But Smart Starter Crossover
2022 Volkswagen Taos Front Seat. Photo: Sara Lacey
Interior Simplicity
Volkswagen has been making cars for a long time, and the Taos’s interior proves they’ve learned what the essentials are and where to place them. Even their screens and displays are uncluttered and tidy. The cupholders were easy to access and just the right size, the buttons on the center stack were within reach and in obvious places.
Related: The Used 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan: Not Too Big, Not Too Small, But Just Right
2022 Volkswagen Taos Back Seat. Photo: Sara Lacey
Connected (to the road) Drive Experience
I loved that I could hear and feel the engine in the Taos. It reminded me that it is fun to know what the 1.5l turbocharged 4 cylinder engine is doing and when it’s doing it. I have enjoyed a quiet cabin in several of my past vehicles, and but there’s lots of vehicles with a quiet interior. I enjoyed feeling more connected to the car and the road. Additionally, the Taos has a customizable Drive Mode Selection option, which enables the driver to adjust the feel of the steering and the throttle map (which is car speak for how far you have to press the accelerator for power).
Related: Stressed Out Behind the Wheel? These Tips For Stress Free Driving May Help
The Giant Moonroof
It’s giant, and it makes this small vehicle feel roomy and light. Also, it doesn’t cause weird reflections, in case you are worried about (that like I was).
2022 Volkswagen Taos Rear Seat Passenger Reminder. Photo: Sara Lacey
Chiming Visual Rear Seat Reminder
I do love that the Taos is looking after the littlest in our families by reminding us to check the backseat when we turn off the vehicle. It’s not the newest tech, but it remains one of the most valuable.
Related: “Safe Enough” is Not Enough When It Comes to Infant and Child Passenger Safety
Sara Lacey
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