2022 Volkswagen Taos S

The Taos is Volkswagen's smallest SUV, slotting below the Tiguan and competing with the Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, and Kia Seltos. The Taos feels eager and light on its feet around town, with a punchy turbo that makes it easy to keep up with traffic. The ride is composed on most surfaces, though the sport-tuned suspension on the SEL is firmer than some rivals. The cabin is roomier than the exterior suggests, with generous rear legroom and a cargo area that beats most competitors. Its 1.5L I4 makes 158 horsepower and pairs with an eight-speed automatic, returning 31 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive form. The S rides on torsion-beam rear suspension rather than the independent setup on AWD models, which is a small trade for the lower price.