Volkswagen only introduced the Taos in the US a year ago, but the compact crossover has been on sale in China since 2018. where it is called Tharu.
A prototype for an updated Tharu has just been discovered, and it’s likely we’ll see the tweaks we’ll see in the US on Taos. Updated versions of both crossovers are due next year, which for the US means the model will arrive in 2024.
Judging by the prototype, there will be revised designs for the lights at both ends, as well as a new shield design and a new grille. It is possible that it will also receive some tweaks inside, such as an updated infotainment system.
We don’t currently expect any changes in the Taos powertrain division. The crossover is offered exclusively with a 1.5-liter turbo-4 making 158 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive versions come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while all-wheel drive versions get a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. A more diverse powertrain portfolio including 1.2, 1.4 and 2.0 liter turbocharged engines is offered to Tharu in China.
Production of Taos for the United States is handled at VW’s plant in Pueblo, Mexico. This car racked up a respectable 31,682 sales in the US last year and 2022, which will be its first year on the market, is shaping up to deliver even better results.
