The IIHS did not give the 2022 Volkswagen Taos a Top Safety Pick designation because it did not perform well enough in two of the crash tests. The stock headlights received a Marginal rating because they did not provide enough visibility.
The Taos' body distorted into the occupant's survival space in the passenger-side minor overlap accident test. This is sufficient for the IIHS to assign the crossover an Acceptable rating in this assessment. Acceptable is one step below the highest possible score of Good.
The seat in the Taos didn't give enough support to the dummy's head and neck in a simulated rear-end crash during the head restraint examination. In this test, the IIHS granted the vehicle an Acceptable rating.
Front accident prevention technologies are also put to the test by the IIHS. In the vehicle-to-pedestrian test, the Taos tech receives a Basic rating and a Superior rating in the vehicle-to-vehicle test. The Taos achieved a Good rating in the IIHS' four other crash tests.
To obtain a Top Safety Pick designation for a car model year 2022. It must pass all six crash tests with a Good rating. A headlamp alternative that is offered must also be rated Good or Acceptable.
In order to receive the more renowned Top Safety Pick+, the basic headlights must receive a Good or Acceptable rating in addition to meeting all of the other requirements.