Volkswagen reveals the name of its new SUV

Volkswagen of America, Inc. has announced the name for its new compact SUV: The Volkswagen Taos.

The Taos model was designed specifically for the North American market and, as such, the name was chosen to resonate with American customers.

The town of Taos is home to 6,000 people, and boasts a 400-year history and a 1,000-year old Native American community just a few miles from the centre of town. It is notable for its artist community, world-class ski resort, and stunning landscapes, including vast plains, the Sangre de Cristo mountains, and the spectacular Rio Grande Gorge.

Incidentally, Taos was also home to John Muir, an engineer turned mechanic, and author of How To Keep Your Volkswagen Alive: A Manual of Step-by-Step procedures for the Compleat Idiot. First published in 1969, and illustrated by local artist Peter Aschwanden, this counter-culture guide to Volkswagen repairs quickly developed a popular following. The book, started in Muir's Taos shop, has helped keep countless Volkswagen models running, from Beetles and Buses to Type 3 and Type 4 models.

The Volkswagen Taos will slot under the Tiguan, and is the second proof point of Volkswagen's doubling-up SUV strategy following the launch of Atlas Cross Sport earlier this year. The vehicle will offer great value, excellent fuel economy, and great packaging, as well as advanced infotainment and driver-assistance features. The official reveal will take place next month, on 13 October 2020.