Explore the latest VW SUVs at Ourisman Volkswagen of Bethesda near Washington D.C. and Arlington, VA
With their roomy and refined accommodations, versatile utility, advanced technology, and assertive style, Volkswagen SUVs are some of the most intriguing options in their respective classes. And with the recent launch of the all-new 2022 VW Taos, DC-Maryland-Virginia drivers can now enjoy the Volkswagen experience in a smaller, more maneuverable package. But how does it compare to the automaker's previous smallest crossover, the VW Tiguan? And which one is a better fit for you? Here's a quick overview of these two compelling crossovers and their distinguishing characteristics.
Volkswagen Taos
- Seating: 5
- L x W x H (inches): 175.8 x 72.5 x 64.4
- Headroom Front/Rear (in.): 40.7/39.8 | (39.5/38.8 with sunroof)
- Legroom Front/Rear (in.): 40.1/37.9
- Cargo Capacity (cu-ft): 27.9 – 65.9 (rear seat folded)
- Trim Levels: S, SE, SEL
Though it's technically a "subcompact" crossover, the all-new VW Taos is one of the largest options in its segment, allowing it to provide a more spacious cabin while retaining a highly maneuverable physical footprint that's ideal for navigating crowded streets and parking lots. As a result, it's an excellent option for Bethesda shoppers who want more utility from their daily driver but need something that's also city-friendly.
The 2022 VW Taos is motivated by a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. And if you're looking for enhanced control in inclement conditions, VW's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive is available on any trim level and comes bundled with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a more advanced multilink rear suspension.
Standard features for the Taos include:
- 17" alloy wheels
- LED headlights, taillights, and DRLs
- Black roof rails
- Volkswagen Digital Cockpit
- 2 front USB-C data ports
- 6.5" touchscreen
- VW App-Connect with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Additionally, Volkswagen's IQ.Drive/Convenience pack is available for S and SE models and standard on SEL. It comes with Front Assist collision mitigation; Lane Assist; Adaptive Cruise Control; Blind Spot Monitor; Rear Traffic Alert; Travel Assist; High Beam Control; a leatherette-wrapped heated steering wheel; a leather-wrapped shift knob.
Volkswagen Tiguan
- Seating: 5 (AWD) – 7 (FWD)
- L x W x H: 185.1 x 72.4 x 66.3
- Headroom 1st/2nd/3rd (FWD)(in.): 39.6/39.1/33.8 (38.2/37.7/33.8 with sunroof)
- Legroom 1st/2nd/3rd (FWD)(in.): 40.2/36.6/27.9
- Headroom Front/Rear (AWD)(in.): 39.6/38.9 (38.2/37.8 with sunroof)
- Legroom Front/Rear (AWD)(in.): 40.2/38.7
- Cargo Capacity (FWD)(cu-ft): 12 – 33 – 65.7
- Cargo Capacity (AWD): 37.6/73.5
- Trim Levels: S, SE, SE R-Line Black, SEL, SEL Premium R-Line.
The VW Tiguan is technically a compact crossover, although its dimensions place it close to midsize territory. Perhaps the biggest difference between the Taos and the Tiguan is the latter's available third-row. For larger families who need additional seatbelts while keeping space requirements to a minimum, a seven-seat configuration is standard for FWD Tiguan models and available for AWD versions.
The larger VW Tiguan gets a more powerful 2.0L turbo-four that makes 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. 4MOTION all-wheel-drive comes standard on the SEL Premium R-Line and is available as an option on all supporting trim levels.
The Tiguan's standard features include:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Heated, power-adjustable side mirrors
- Roof rails
- 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Front Assist
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Rear Traffic Alert
Additional tech features are available moving up the trim ladder. For example, SE models get an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and Adaptive Cruise Control; SE R-Line adds adaptive headlights and parking sensors; SEL models get Lane Assist with active blind-spot intervention; SEL Premium R-Line adds automatic high beams and a 360-degree camera system.
(Note: A refreshed 2022 Tiguan is expected this fall with updated exterior styling, a standard digital instrument cluster, and available wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.)Test-drive the VW Taos and VW Tiguan near Alexandria and Fairfax, VA
Reach out to Ourisman Volkswagen of Bethesda today with questions about the latest VW crossovers and their available configurations and financing opportunities. And if you'd like to get behind the wheel and see for yourself which one is best for your daily drives, we encourage you to schedule an in-person or at-home test drive via Ourisman to Go. We'll be happy to show you around.