2023 Volkswagen Taos: Playing Big in a Small Crowd

The world of subcompact crossovers has grown, and Volkswagen added the Taos to the mix to give us something unique and interesting.

Most of the vehicles in this vehicle class come from Asian and American automakers, which allows the Taos to put a European spin on things. If you appreciate the German approach to style, comfort, and performance, you’ll be glad to take this VW out for a drive. This small crossover brings more cargo room to your drive than most of the other models, which is a happy addition when you need an SUV but also want a small vehicle to drive.

What powers the Taos?

Every version of this Volkswagen SUV uses the same 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. If you choose the FWD version, you’ll have an 8-speed automatic transmission and enjoy 28 city/36 hwy mpg. Taos models with AWD make use of a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission which returns 25 city/32 hwy mpg. The SEL model only comes in the AWD version.

To make things a little easier for you, this VW SUV includes two years/20,000 miles of complimentary maintenance.

What does the base model of the Taos include?

The starting point for the Volkswagen Taos is the S trim. This base model includes a host of excellent features to make sure you can have a great vehicle to drive at an affordable price. This base model includes:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alerts
• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Power side mirrors
• Black roof rails
• Automatic LED headlights
• Push-button starting
• Multifunction tilt/telescoping steering wheel
• 60/40 split-folding rear seat
• Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit on an 8-inch display
• 4-speaker audio system
• 6.5-inch color touchscreen
• Two USB ports
• Apple CarPlay
• Android Auto
• Rearview monitor
• VW Car-Net services
• Wi-Fi hotspot

Options for the VW Taos S trim base model include:

• IQ.Drive System
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane-departure warning
  • Lane-keeping assist
  • Active Blind Spot Monitor
  • Trave Assist semi-autonomous driving assistance
  • Emergency Assist system
  • Convenience Package
    • Rain-sensing wipers
    • Heated steering wheel
    • Automatic high beam headlights
• 4Motion AWD
  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Hill-descent control
  • Heated power side mirrors
  • Heated washer nozzles
  • Heated front seats
  • Independent rear suspension
  • One additional 12-volt outlet
  • Drive Mode Selector – Normal, Sport, Eco, Individual
  • Active Control system – On-Road, Snow, Off-Road, Off-Road Custom

What will you find in the SE trim of the Volkswagen Taos?

Take one step upward in this subcompact Volkswagen SUV, and you’ll find more features and equipment than what the base model brings to the mix. This trim adds to what the S trim offers with:

• IQ.Drive and Convenience Packages are standard equipment
• Heated side mirrors
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Silver roof rails
• Proximity key fob
• Remote engine starting
• Cloth and vinyl seat upholstery
• 8-way power driver’s seat
• Heated front seats
• 8-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system
• Voice controls
• 6-speaker audio system
• Sirius XM 360L
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Wireless charging pad
• Single rear-seat USB charging port

The SE model only has a few options which are:

• 18-inch black wheels
• Panoramic power sunroof

What will you get in the top trim of this subcompact SUV?

The top model of the 2023 Volkswagen Taos is the SEL trim. This model is only offered with AWD, giving you the power to all four wheels. If this is the right model for you, you’ll enjoy:

• 4Motion AWD
• 19-inch two-tone alloy wheels
• Adaptive projector LED headlights and cornering lights
• Panoramic power sunroof
• Front grille lightbar
• Rear parking sensors
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Traffic sign recognition
• Vienna leather upholstery
• Ventilated front sport seats
• 10-color ambient interior lighting
• VW Digital Cockpit Pro with a 10.25-inch screen
• Dual-zone automatic climate controls
• Navigation system
• BeatsAudio 8-speaker premium sound system

There aren’t any options for the SEL trim; this is the most complete and fully loaded version of the Taos.

How much does this Volkswagen SUV cost?

The starting price of the S trim is $24,155, but many might find this model to be a little too sparse. Add the modern features of the SE trim to the mix, and you’ll spend $28,925. If you want the top-level SEL model, you’ll pay $34,535 for this little SUV.

If you’re looking for something unique in the subcompact crossover class, the 2023 Volkswagen Taos could be exactly what you want to drive. Head to your local VW dealer and take it for a test drive.