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Volkswagen SUV models have included a growing list of both internal combustion engines and, now, an electric vehicle too.

So, here in the US market buyers have the selection of a subcompact, compact, and two midsized SUVs.  But that doesn’t account for the new EV which adds another compact to the mix.

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2021 Volkswagen Atlas – 3-row Midsize

By EPA class definition the 2021Atlas is a midsize crossover SUV.  But it’s arguably a full-size crossover SUV.  Because it offers more cargo space than some definitively full-size SUVs.  Plus, its 3-rows of seating is spacious enough for 7-adult passengers.  And being able to comfortably fit adults in a 3rd-row can be a major factor for some buyers.

2021 Volkswagen Atlas:

Left: Atlas Cross Sport | Right: Atlas

The 2021 Atlas Cross Sport ushers in its second model year.  And the Atlas Cross Sport shares the same wheelbase of 117.3-inches as its bigger sibling Atlas.  However, the Atlas Cross Sport is shorter overall at 195.5″ to the Atlas’s 200.7″.  Both of the 2021 VW SUV models are great-looking.  But the Atlas Cross Sport poses slightly more athletic with its raked rear roof.

2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport:

’21 Tiguan SE R-Line Black trim

The Tiguan is Volkswagen’s 2021 compact SUV model.  And like both its larger siblings, it’s big and comfortable inside.  It’s worth noting that the optional 3rd-row of seating is sized for children.  Or adults that are pretty small.   Tiguan is a fun crossover SUV to drive.  Because its turbocharged 4-cylinder balances nicely with the vehicle’s less than 3,900 curb weight.

2021 Volkswagen Tiguan:

2021 VW ID.4 EV

ID.4 is the first electric vehicle in the United States on Volkswagen’s new MEB platform.  And the ID.4 is a compact sport utility electric vehicle.  The modular electric drive matrix platform is already in use for the ID.3 sedan.  But that’s available in Europe only.  With ID.4 the Volkswagen SUV models increase to four.  With it being the first EV.

2021 Volkswagen ID.4:

2022 Taos with Basecamp package

ID.4 is the first electric vehicle in the United States on Volkswagen’s new MEB platform.  And the ID.4 is a compact sport utility electric vehicle.  The modular electric drive matrix platform is already in use for the ID.3 sedan.  But that’s available in Europe only.  With ID.4 the Volkswagen SUV models increase to four.  With it being the first EV.

2022 Volkswagen Taos:

For deep-dive details on all 2021 and 2022 Volkswagen models including crossover SUVs be sure to check out our reviews.

And if you’re looking to buy a VW go see my friends at Ontario Volkswagen in Southern California’s Inland Empire.

Earl Reed, GM @ Ontario VW & Me

All The Latest Volkswagen News HERE.

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is the fourth model year of the second generation.

So the second generation hit the US market in 2017.  And it was great then.  But with each year it keeps getting better.

Because the compact SUV is fun to drive.  Plus it delivers solid fuel economy while also offering attractive European styling.

✅  Southern California’s Volkswagen HQ –> Ontario Volkswagen

2021 VW Tiguan Top-3:

Probably what throws most people off about the Tiguan is the optional three-rows of seating.  That’s right.  It’s compact but it does offer 3-rows.

That is to say, there’s a 3rd-row of seating for children.  Unless you’re a very small adult that back row is not for you.  Nevertheless, those extra seats come in handy.  And are in hot demand.

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109.8″ wheelbase

For ’21 the Tiguan is being offered in five trim configurations.  And here they are with the manufacturer’s suggested retail pricing.

Pictured throughout this review is the SE R-Line Black, courtesy of our friends at Ontario Volkswagen.  And that’s the official iDriveSoCal VW dealer.

20″ alloy wheels

The 2021 Tiguan comes with the same engine and transmission across all trims.  However, you do have to decide if you want to go with 2-wheel driver or all-wheel drive.

First, the engine is a quick 2.0-liter inline turbocharged four-cylinder.  And it puts out 184-horsepower with 221 pound-feet of torque

The 8-speed automatic transmission seems perfectly geared for the size and weight of the vehicle.  Because with the engine, it provides confident acceleration everywhere you need it.

So this leaves you with the option of front-wheel drive or Volkswagens 4Motion all-wheel-drive system.  And either way, you have a 1,500 lb towing capacity with Tiguan.

Accordingly, the fuel economy varies only slightly.

*City/Combined/Highway

Finally, the Tiguan’s curb weight differs only slightly as well.

Whereas front-wheel drive comes in at 3,735 lbs and 4Motion increases to 3,825 lbs.

It definitely looks European and unmistakably a Volkswagen.  And it depends on the trim you go with. For instance, the SE R-Line that is pictured throughout this article.  It looks athletic and bold.

It doesn’t look like a compact.

Plus the 20″ black alloy wheels that come with the SE R-Line Black trim add a touch of style and class.

Exterior Dimensions:

The ’21 Tiguan doesn’t look like a compact SUV.  For sure, all cars have gotten bigger in recent years.  Even so, nothing about Tiguan says ‘compact’ from the outside.  Or the inside for that matter.

And speaking of the interior, I’d classify the design as exceptional.  Specifically the way everything is laid out.

SE R-Line Black interior

And that starts in the cockpit.  Including all the driver controls.  But it also extends to the rest of the vehicle.

36.6″ of 2nd-row legroom

For example the ample, 36.6-inches of second-row backseat legroom.  Additionally, when equipped with a 3rd-row provides 27.9 inches of legroom.

Interior Metrics:

*All inches

And no Volkswagen review is complete without a compliment to the brand’s attention to detail, fit, and finish.

Available 3rd-row

Because everything in the vehicle is easy and intuitive to adjust.  And that’s whether you have 2 or 3-rows of seating.  They’re simple to put up and back down whenever your needs arise.

One final note on the interior is the optional panoramic sunroof.  It’s surprisingly huge and must be amazing (for passengers) driving through the desert on a starry night.

Volkswagen offers the 2021 Tiguan packed with all the latest technology you’d expect.  Whether that’s infotainment or keeping you safe.

Volkswagen’s App-Connect, Car-Net, and Bluetooth are standard across all trims.  And options in top trims include Volkswagen’s Digitial Cockpit, 8-inch touchscreen with navigation, plus 9-speaker Fender premium audio system.

8-inch info screen and Fender audio available

Forward collision warning and braking, blind-spot monitoring, rearview camera, rear traffic and more, all come standard.

Additionally, Tiguan comes with more safety and driver assistance tech as you move up in trim configurations.  So, that includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and park distance control.

Then there are two features that only come on the SEL Premium R-Line trim.  Those being the overhead (area view) camera and high beam control.

Bringing us back to my Top-3 favorite things about the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan.

And for all your VW needs – buying, servicing, or just learning more – go see our friends at Ontario VW.  For the best buying experience hands-down.  Plus the selection and expert guidance through your Volkswagen options.

Southern California’s Volkswagen Dealer

All the latest Volkswagen news HERE.

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

2022 Volkswagen Taos Basecamp Top-3:

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2022 VW Taos SE with 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.

Basecamp Taos Package

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.

2022 Volkswagen Taos trims:

*Starting MSRPs – not including Basecamp package.

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.

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.

Turbocharged Inline 4-cylinder

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.

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

*City/combined/highway

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.

’22 Taos SE w/ Basecamp package

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.

Exterior Dimensions:

*Inches, FWD/AWD

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.

Taos SE trim interior

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.

Up to 65.9 cu-ft cargo space

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

2022 VW Taos Interior Dimensions:

*Inches, front/back

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.

Digital Cockpit – standard

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.

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

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!

Ontario VW – SoCal’s VW HQ

All the latest Volkswagen news HERE.

The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a midsize SUV.  But it joins its slightly larger sibling, the VW Atlas in the midsize SUV category.

Here’s the deal.  Atlas Cross Sport is a 2-row whereas the larger VW Atlas is a 3-row.  The differences pretty much start and stop there.

So if you have kids at home go with the Atlas.  And if you don’t you’ll probably opt for the Atlas Cross Sport.  Because it’s a bit sleeker, sportier, and even more European-looking.

However, you cannot go wrong either way.  Because both the Atlas and the Atlas Cross Sport are great overall values.

✅  Test drive Atlas Cross Sport midsize SUV at Southern California’s Volkswagen HQ –> Ontario Volkswagen.

2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport Top-3:

See the difference in the below picture?

Atlas Cross Sport is on the left.  Its roofline slopes down.  And it’s shorter from the rear wheel to the rear bumper.

Conversely, Atlas is on the right.  Its roofline doesn’t slope much.  And it’s longer from the rear wheel to the rear bumper.

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Left: Atlas Cross Sport | Right: Atlas

So here’s what’s new for the 2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport.  The 2-row midsize SUV now comes in eight trim levels.  Plus there’s new technology.  And that includes driver assistance features.

For example, new tech includes VW’s next-gen MIB3 infotainment system.  Additionally, it also can come with wireless App-Connect pairing for multiple compatible phones.

Plus Travel Assist and Emergency Assist features are available for 2021.

Atlas Cross Sport starts at $30,855 MSRP

Since 2021 is the second model year for Atlas Cross Sport it’s typical for carmakers to add more trim options.  Hence the more robust offering of trims this year.

’21 Atlas Cross Sport Trims & Starting MSRPs:

Manufacturers suggested retail pricing is provided for reference.  You need to get your Cross Sport equipped to your liking.  And the place to do that is Ontario Volkswagen in the Los Angeles suburb of Ontario, CA.

Depending on the trim config you select, there are two engine options.

First, there’s a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4cylinder.  It puts out 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.

Second, there’s the bigger 3.6L V6.  And that creates 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque.

However, having driven both – without data to back up the statement.  I’m pretty sure the turbo 4-cylinder accelerates quicker than the V6.  Maybe not 0 to 60 mph.  But off the line.  (Aka from a dead stop.) It feels quicker.

Regardless of the engine, Atlas Cross Sport comes with the same transmission.  And that’s an eight-speed automatic that helps produce solid fuel economy for a vehicle that size.

Although the eight-speed trans is standard there can be a decision to make.  You may have to select whether to go with a two-wheel drive (in front – FWD) or an all-wheel drive.

The EPA-estimated fuel economy differs slightly with the different engine and drives combinations.

’21 Atlas Cross Sport MPG:

*City/combined/highway

It’s important to note that the midsize Atlas Cross Sport is a hefty vehicle.  Again, configuration depending, it can have a curb weight from 4,098 pounds up to 4,484 lbs.

So the Atlas Cross Sport is tough to differentiate from its larger sibling Atlas.  And that’s clear from the comparison picture of their rear ends above.

But either way, it’s a handsome, athletic and, bold European design.  Undoubtedly it’s a Volkswagen.  That is from the front and rear.  Or anywhere you spot the badge.

Height 78.4″ / Length 195.5″

However, when you go with an upper trim configuration Atlas Cross Sport can make you look twice.  For example, the first time I spotted one on the road I thought for certain that I’d seen an Audi.

Exterior Dimensions:

*All inches

And inside Atlas Cross Sport is huge.  Volkswagen has a knack for engineering great use of space which is displayed inside its ’21 Atlas Cross Sport.

’21 VW Atlas Cross Sport S trim

The People’s SUV is well laid out inside.  Functional and clean, with quality surfaces.  And Volkswagen’s legendary attention to detail, fit and finish.

Up to 77.8 cu-ft cargo space

And with the backseats folded down, the 5-passenger midsize sport-ute provides up to 77.8 cubic feet of cargo space.  Plus, even with the backseats raised Atlas Cross Sport delivers 40.3 cu-ft of space for your stuff.

When it comes to technology Cross Sport has everything available.  For instance, IQ.DRIVE, Volkswagen’s suite of driver assistance features and App-Connect enabling Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

S trim, analog instruments

But you can also step it up in trim configurations and get Volkswagen’s digital cockpit.  Accordingly, the digital cockpit replaces analog instruments (shown above) with an in-dash monitor.  Moreover, that monitor is completely customizable and you can save multiple profiles within in.

Finally coming back full-circle to my Top-3 for the 2021 Volkswagen Cross Sport midsize sport utility vehicle.

Rear badging states only “Atlas”

A final note on Cross Sport and its bigger sibling Atlas.

Cross Sport side badge

“Cross Sport” badging is located only on the sides.

All Latest Volkswagen News HERE.

The refreshed 2021 Volkswagen Arteon adds elements of driver assistance, connectivity, and refinement.  As a result, Arteon continues its this/closeness to luxury sibling brand Audi.  But the midsize flagship sedan does so while maintaining the Volkswagen pricing creating an attractive value proposition.

✅  The latest Arteon deals and incentives –> check inventory at Ontario Volkswagen

2021 VW Arteon Top-3:

Because at under $37k starting price it’s hard to beat the overall package Volkswagen Arteon offers.

268 hp & 258 lb-ft of torque

Because no other European luxury brand has a non-luxury sibling VW is special.  And thanks go to Audi for sure.  But Porsche and other brands owned by Volkswagen Group too.  So, when you consider the available technology and innovation easily accessible to Volkswagen.  It’s easy to understand how the carmakers packs so much into it’s flagship sedan.

First, it’s exceptional design – inside and out.  Plus Volkswagen’s reknown attention to fit and finish details.  And class leading technology.  Arteon looks great.  It’s fun to drive, quick and offers superior handling.  And it includes Volkswagen’s Digital cockpit which is a direct carryover from Audi.

For ’21 Arteon is offered in three trim configurations.  Starting with the base-model SE.  Next is the SEL R-Line.  And the top trim for 2021 is the SEL Premium R-Line.

2021 Volkswagen Arteon Trims & MSRPS:

As an reference I provide manufacturers suggested retail pricing.  But go see my friends at Ontario VW for not only your best price and selection but also your best buying experience.

No matter which trim configuration, Arteon comes with the same engine and transmission.  But the factor you do have to weigh into the equation is front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.  And VW’s AWD system is referred to as 4Motion.

So the engine is an inline 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that’s turbocharged.  And it puts out 268 horsepower with 258 pound-feet of torque.  That engine is paried with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

EPA rated up to 32 mpg

Leaving the FWD or 4Motion decision.  But, FWD is the only option on the SE trim.  The SEL R-Line offers both FWD and 4Motion.  And the SEL Premium R-Line only comes with the 4Motion.

Fuel economy varies only a little.  Because AWD gives you 20 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway.  Whereas FWD will deliver 22 in the city and 32 on the highway.

Finally, Arteon’s curbweight also varies slightly due to FWD or AWD.  With FWD it’s 3,686 and with AWD it’s 3,955.

Arteon’s styling is undeniably attractive.  But it’s also undeniably a Volkswagen.  And, you could say, it’s undeniably the Volkswagen flagship sedan.  Because there’s no bad angle when viewing the vehicle.

Exterior Dimensions:

*All inches

Plus, depending on your trim configuration.  You can have your option of stylish 18″, 19″, or 20″ wheels and R-Line sporty accents.  It’s European for sure with a contemporary forward-leaning vibe.

Inside the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon is where the fit and finish details really hit home.  Because even a non-car-guy/gal are able to appreciate the little things.  Like how the doors close with a solid feel.  Or how all the surfaces fit together snug and seamlessly.

41.2/40.2-inches front/back legroom

Plus the interior mechanical parts of the vehicle work.  Like the center console storage cubbies function.  Or how the backseats fold down.

’21 VW Arteon Interior Dimensions:

*All inches

Even how the glove box opens and shuts.  It’s attention-to-detail German engineered.  Quality.

96.5 cu-ft of passenger volume

And it’s all of that fine German engineering at a non-luxury pricepoint.  While it’s essentially a luxury vehicle.  Heck, you can even get the 2021 VW Arteon with a massaging drivers seat!

Up to 56.2 cu-ft cargo space

So Arteon is a fastback – aka sportback.  And that allows for a great amout of cargo space.  And with the backseats up it offers 27.2 cubic-feet of cargo space.  But then drop the backseats down and you have up to 56.2 cu-ft of space for your stuff.

From an available Harman Kardon premium sound system to Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit being standard.  If Arteon doesn’t come with it, then you can get it.

Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit is a favorite of mine.  Because it replaces in-dash analog instrumentation with a digital display monitor.  And you can custom configure it however you like.  Including putting your navigation map right in your dash.  Additionally, you can program and save multiple profiles for easy access.

And that includes updated safety technology.  Plus new for this year available wirelss app connect and 30-color ambient lighting.

So coming back to my Top-3 for the 2021 VW Arteon midsize fastback sedan.

Starting under $37k – VW Arteon

iDriveSoCal with Ontario Volkswagen brings you all the latest VW news.