If you’re a fan of Volkswagen hatchbacks, you’re no doubt saddened that Volkswagen is no longer bringing the normally aspirated Golf to the United States; it is now only available as a more expensive and sportier GTI. But that doesn’t mean VW is abandoning that part of the market. In its place is the new 2022 Volkswagen Taos, which starts at a reasonable price of $22,995.

But the new Taos is no hot hatch pumped up to 150 psi. In fact, it’s not sporty at all. Instead, it’s a wagon-like transportation device that competes in an increasingly crowded space against players such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Ford EcoSport, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Jeep Compass, Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30 Nissan Kicks and Subaru Crosstrek. . But unlike them, it sports a sleek and refined style that is timeless and gratifyingly mature. He doesn’t look like an escapee from a video game. In fact, it looks like an Atlas Cross Sport that’s been in the dryer too long, but that’s not a bad thing.

Open the door and you’ll be amazed by the spacious cabin of the Taos. Normal-sized Americans can actually fit in the back seat without complaining – headroom and legroom are generous. The seat is very comfortable and supportive. The vibe is similar to that of other VW SUVs, being a symphony of rigid, hard plastic, though well put together and designed with ergonomic simplicity.

Offered in upward S, mid-range SE and top-end SEL trims, the Taos uses the MQB platform that underpins the larger Tiguan.

While you may be tempted by the low base price of the S trim level, it’s better to opt for the SE, which adds niceties like full keyless access, remote start, driver’s seat to eight electric adjustments with lumbar, heated front seats, heated sides. mirrors, heated windshield washer jets, leatherette-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and tinted windows.

Lower-priced models feature an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, a 6.5-inch center infotainment touchscreen and two USB ports. Pricier models get a 10.3-inch dash and 8-inch infotainment screen, Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and three USB ports. SEL models include navigation and a Beats audio system.

Lift the hood and you’ll be greeted by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine derived from the unit used in the Jetta, rated at 158 ​​horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel-drive models get an eight-speed automatic transmission, while 4Motion all-wheel-drive models get a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for a sportier feel, along with normal, sport and individual. But there is a difference in fuel economy; the front-drive Taos returns an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in combined city/highway driving, compared to 28 mpg for the 4Motion Taos. The latter costs an extra $5 per tank to fill and costs an extra $150 per year in fuel costs.

Standard on the SEL version and optional on the other models, Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive is a semi-automatic driver assistance system with forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring, monitoring blind spots, rear traffic alert, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane keeping assistance and emergency assistance. Opting for this package also gives buyers access to Travel Assist, which enables convenient partially automated driving up to 95 mph, and is activated by a button on the steering wheel. We found it to be only marginally useful, as most of these systems are.

Of course, if you liked the driving dynamics of the Golf, you’ll find the Taos to be a different animal. Acceleration is more than adequate for everyday driving tasks despite its turbo lag, so planning is required when you need a sudden dose of power, especially off-line. However, this is not unusual for this market segment. Although the ride has the compliance you expect from a crossover, the worst bumps and abrasions of the road are felt. The turns bring out the lean of the body, which is unexpected given its relatively firm ride. While there’s nothing wrong with the Taos’ overall demeanor, it does seem quite vanilla for a Volkswagen. Why not give it more European-style flavors that shoppers might expect? Of course, the same could be said of all the vehicles Volkswagen makes for America.

Still, the low price, roomy cabin, and reasonable fuel economy of the 2022 Volkswagen Taos make it worth it. That said, unless you really need all-wheel drive, go for the front-drive SE; most buyers will never really need the added complexity, weight and poor fuel economy of the 4Motion model. Plus, the addition of four-wheel drive in a higher trim level puts this pup above that of the larger Tiguan, negating any point in buying an entry-level model. Choose your options carefully and you’ll find the Taos to be an efficient and accommodating crossover – and a great looking one to boot. Don’t expect the fun driving experience of a GTI.

2022 Volkswagen Taos

Base price: $22,995

Motor: 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder

Power/torque: 158/184 lb-ft of torque

EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway): 25/32 mpg

Fuel required: Regular unleaded

Length Width Height: 175.8/72.5/64.6 inch

Ground clearance : 6.4 inches

Payload: 937 pounds

Loading capacity: 27.9 cubic feet

Towing capacity: Unclassified