Volkswagen has issued a stop-sale order for all-wheel-drive (AWD) models of the 2022 VW Taos subcompact SUV. Shoppers can still buy front-wheel-drive (FWD) versions of the Taos.
A Volkswagen spokesperson confirmed the order, saying that AWD models of the Taos may face an issue that can cause the vehicle to shut off while in use. The notice sent to dealers expands on the issue slightly, saying that Taos models equipped with VW’s 4Motion AWD system sometimes “shut off unexpectedly when coming to a stop.” Volkswagen says it is “working on a repair to address the issue; at this time a repair is not available.”
The Taos is brand new for the 2022 model year, on sale only since June. The FWD Taos has reportedly not suffered from the sudden shutoff problem, and dealers will still sell you one. It starts at $22,995, plus a $1,195 delivery fee. The AWD model starts at $25,040.
The Taos is VW’s smallest SUV. Our reviewers found it quite fun to drive – something we don’t always get to say about affordable small crossovers. Its 158 horsepower 4-cylinder engine and 8-speed automatic transmission are tuned to provide a lot of power at low speeds, making it feel quick from a stoplight. It also handles with real agility. With a 36 mpg highway rating, FWD versions of the Taos are quite efficient, too.
But AWD models lose 4 mpg in highway driving and have less cargo space – a real issue in a vehicle this small. It also faces competition in its own showroom. The Taos is a bit smaller than VW’s Tiguan SUV, but once you start selecting trims and options packages, the two can become similar in price.
Volkswagen offered no time frame for when the stop-sale order might lift.
