
The all-new 2022 Volkswagen Taos not only slots in as the smallest SUV on sale in the automaker’s lineup, but also in terms of pricing. Volkswagen announced pricing for its new subcompact SUV and it will start at $24,190 including destination. That’s $2,250 less than the compact Tiguan. Interestingly, the Taos’ starting price matches the 2021 Golf.
The 2022 Taos will be offered in three trim levels: S, SE, and SEL. The range-topping SEL starts at $32,685. That’s a lot of money for the brand’s baby SUV and makes it more expensive than the mid-level Tiguan SE R-Line ($31,790) which is more powerful and more spacious.
Compared to other subcompact SUVs on the market, the Taos is one of the more expensive ones. The Mazda CX-30 ($23,225), Kia Seltos ($23,165), Hyundai Kona ($21,685), Honda HR-V ($23,395), and Subaru Crosstrek ($23,295) are all more affordable. The Nissan Rogue Sport is one of the few subcompact options that’s more expensive than the Taos, carrying a starting price of $25,110.
While the Taos comes with a relatively high price tag for the segment, it comes well-equipped out of the gate. The base S trim comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster with Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit system, Wi-Fi hot spot, and snazzy 17-inch wheels.
On the flip side, the S trim is lacking is when it comes to standard safety features. Things like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control are optional through the IQ.Drive S package that costs $995. Hyundai, Mazda, and Nissan offer robust safety features as standard on their subcompact SUVs.
With its high price tag and lack of standard safety features, the Taos may be a tough sell for consumers that are looking for a value-packed option. Still, the Taos fills a gap that VW desperately needed to plug. Having an SUV at this price point will help VW be more competitive in the landscape, as more consumers continue to purchase SUVs in high numbers.