Volkswagen announces sub-Tiguan compact crossover, the 2022 Taos

What you see here is Volkswagen's latest entry into the compact SUV/crossover market, the Taos. Anyone who watches closely would know that this was inevitable from VW.  They listened to dealers, who always want bigger and better (aka more profitable), instead of looking at the marketplace itself and future trends. The Tiguan became a large compact that was just inches away from becoming a mid-sized entry. Some of you may remember the original Tiguan. A smallish, boxy crossover that was loved by their owners due to their style, size, and zipability. Volkswagen "updated" the Tiguan (read make it like everyone else's compact crossovers) with bland non-threatening styling and less zip. Let's admit that the Tiguan has been relatively successful but it left behind all those who liked the car before not to mention the millions of folks that were buying sub-compact CUVs.  Dealers spoke again (due to lost sales) and Volkswagen rushed the Taos (market mid-range) compact into production. The size and specs read like a somewhat de-contented Tiguan that isn't really that much smaller. It has the 158 hp 1.5-liter turbocharged engine from the base Jetta mated to an eight-speed automatic (seven-speed dual-clutch transmission when fitted with all-wheel drive), but VW's 2.0-liter four would be a better choice for more zip and to overcome the extra weight that comes with the crossover body style. The Taos is attractive in a VW-sort-of way, but looking at the pics, it screams down-market. Which is okay, cuz not everybody wants glam to the max. I'm sure that numerous options and upgrades will be available especially for those attracted to the Taos' somewhat smaller size. For more info, check out the media release after the "read more" jump and watch the reveal video in the next post. The Taos will not be available until some time next year, so more to come. I think a Taos GTI would be nice, you?

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, video (next post), and pics

 

2019 VW Jetta GLI blows into Chitown Auto Show

Well, this one's a no-brainer. Why Volkswagen doesn't make the Jetta GLI a permanent model is beyond me (the model seems to come and go for no reason). Good news...it's making a comeback for 2019 based on the refreshed Jetta sedan. GLI duty (mustn't dilute the GTI brand after all) gets Jetta buyers the 228-hp GTI engine, a six-speed manual transmission or optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, sports suspension tuning, special 18-inch alloy wheels, black trim accents, limited slip, climate control, and much more. Options include the aforementioned dual-clutch automatic, Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a BeatsAudio® sound system. Tech includes 3 smartphone apps: Apple Carplay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink.  In other words, everything you'd want on your Jetta plus cool styling updates and more based on your judicious use of the options sheet and your checkbook or loan balance. VW's six-year, 72,000-mile, bumper-to-bumper People's Warranty is also on hand. The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI will be available in two regular trim levels and a 35th Anniversary Edition. It is expected to begin arriving at U.S. Volkswagen dealers in the Spring of 2019. Check out the press release after the jump for all of the currently available info. Click on the pics for a closer look. Enjoy...

Source: Volkswagen - Press release after the "Read More" jump.