Clearly, there has got to be a tent coming. . . .

By Gary S. Vasilash

The Volkswagen Taos is absolutely new, but because the company knows that it is always good to offer stuff, it has rolled out with “Basecamp” components for the compact SUV.

The components—thus far, at least—aren’t about, well, camping, base or otherwise.

Rather, they are about making the vehicle have a more-rugged appearance.

Through cladding.

“Our goal is to build on the vehicle’s dynamic exterior design and provide customers with an extensive catalog of accessory options that cater directly to their desires for distinctive styling and functionality,” said Hein Schafer, senior vice president of Product Marketing and Strategy at Volkswagen of America.

Specifically, there are things like front and rear fender flares with integrated splash guards, lower door side plates, and a Basecamp badge for the front grille.

While those elements are clearly show, not go, what is completely functional and then some are the Rubber MuddyBuddy mats.

Yes, that’s the sort of stuff that gets on one’s boots at a basecamp.