2022 Volkswagen Taos Basecamp Review: Small SUV, Big Style And MPG

Volkswagen played the rollout of the 2022 VW Taos Basecamp well.  Because, while we knew the all-new subcompact SUV was coming.  We didn’t know the special Basecamp package was anything more than a concept.

So when the Basecamp concept became a real thing – it heightened the excitement.  And after driving it I can report that the small new sport-ute lives up to the excitement.

✅  Southern California’s Volkswagen HQ –> Ontario Volkswagen

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2022 Volkswagen Taos Basecamp

To be clear, Basecamp is a package that buyers can add to any Tao’s trim configuration.  It’s an appearance package that adds to the aggressive rugged look of the vehicle.  And the package is installed at the dealer level.  But it’s a Volkswagen-approved package.

Trim Levels And Prices

So Basecamp package can be added to any of the three trim configurations for the all-new 2022 Volkswagen Taos.  And those trims with manufacturers suggested retail prices are below.

But the above prices are MSRPs only.  You need to get your Taos configured to your liking.  And the prices above do not reflect the Basecamp package being included.

Furthermore, the Basecamp package adds $995 to your 2022 Volkswagen Taos purchase prices.  And that’s regardless of the trim level.

Engine, Transmission, And Fuel Economy

For the 2022 Volkswagen Taos, the same engine is planted in each trim level.  And that’s a highly-spirited 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder.  Additionally, it’s turbocharged and puts out 158 horsepower with 184 pound-feet of torque.

And that engine is paired with one of two transmissions, depending on whether it’s an all-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive configuration.

So there’s an 8-speed automatic transmission that connects to the front-wheel-drive Taos.  And a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and VW’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive.

MPG

Beyond being fun to drive the 2022 VW Taos delivers in the MPG department.

What Does ’22 VW Taos Basecamp Look Like?

The 2022 VW Taos Basecamp looks more aggressive and rugged than its non-Basecamp siblings.  However, with that said Taos without the Basecamp package is a great-looking SUV.

And it’s definitely a Volkswagen SUV.  So, from Atlas to Atlas Cross Sport and Tiguan to Taos – Volkswagen has homogenized the lineup.  And you could think of the SUV models as large, medium, small and extra-small.  But that works creat because every one of the vehicles is aesthetically appealing.

Inside VW Taos Subcompact SUV

Inside the 5-seat, 2022 VW Taos is much bigger than its subcompact classification would indicate.  As usual, the engineers at VW can be thanked for that.

Consistent with Volkswagens standards, the all-new Taos displays exemplary fit and finish inside.  Because all pieces and panel connections fit firmly together.  And the finish of even this non-luxury brand vehicle looks and feels quality beyond its price tag.

And with both backseats folded down the 2022 Volkswagen Taos delivers up to 65.9 cubic feet of well-designed cargo space.

Infotainment And Safety Technology

Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit highlights the technology of the 2022 Taos.  And that’s standard which is significant.  Because Digital Cockpit replaces analog in-dash instruments with a monitor.

So you can configure your driving experience however you like.  Additionally, you are able to save digital cockpit configurations for easy access and to accommodate different drivers.

Also available with the ’22 Taos is IQ.DRIVE.  It is Volkswagen’s suite of advanced driver assistance safety features.  And while it’s an option on the Taos S and SE trims, it’s standard on the SEL trim.

2022 VW Taos Basecamp Top-3

Coming full circle back to my Top-3 for the 2022 Volkswagen Taos – the picks were pretty easy.

1. Style – Even without the Basecamp package, Taos is a great-looking SUV.  And again, that’s completely uniform with its bigger siblings in the VW SUV lineup.
2. Drive – Taos is a fun car to drive.  Because it’s all about power-to-weight.  So the small SUV is easily maneuvered by VW’s always solid suspension plus the turbocharged inline 4-cylinder.
3. Fuel Economy – SUV and fuel economy doesn’t always go together, even now.  But VW is making sure it does with its overall lineup and most certainly so with Taos.

Ontario VW – Southern California’s Volkswagen HQ

My thanks to my friends at Ontario Volkswagen for providing the 2022 VW Taos Basecamp pictured throughout this review.  For all of your VW buying, leasing, and servicing needs – that’s the place to go!

 

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