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While Volkswagen offers a larger selection of sedans and hatchbacks internationally, in America, it has shifted its focus to SUVs. And for budget-minded drivers, there’s an affordable option: the 2023 VW Taos subcompact. It’s the cheapest new Volkswagen SUV — and a great value choice. 

2023 VW Taos is the cheapest new Volkswagen SUV

Front view of blue 2023 VW Taos subcompact, the cheapest new Volkswagen SUV
2023 VW Taos | Volkswagen

The 2023 VW Taos has a starting price of $24,155 MSRP, which makes it the cheapest new Volkswagen SUV in America. It costs $2,795 less than the next most affordable one, the 2023 Tiguan compact ($26,950 MSRP).

Here are the new Volkswagen SUVs in 2023 — in order of cheapest to most expensive:

  1. 2023 VW Taos: $24,155 MSRP
  2. 2023 VW Tiguan: $26,950 MSRP
  3. 2023 VW Atlas Cross Sport: $34,460 MSRP
  4. 2023 VW Atlas: $35,150 MSRP
  5. 2023 VW ID.4: $38,995 MSRP

Choosing a higher trim level and any dealer markups will make these new Volkswagen SUVs more expensive. However, in terms of starting price, the Taos is the cheapest one.

VW Taos provides fantastic value with its positive attributes and standard features

Dashboard in 2023 VW Taos subcompact, the most affordable new Volkswagen SUV
2023 VW Taos | Volkswagen

When considering both its low price and positive attributes, the 2023 VW Taos offers great value. For one, while the subcompact SUV has small exterior dimensions, it has one of the roomiest interiors in the segment. It provides seating for five people — with a total passenger volume of 99.5 cu-ft, which is more than many larger SUVs. 

There’s plenty of cargo space, too. The affordable SUV has a rear cargo capacity of 24.9 cu-ft — and 65.9 cu-ft in total. 

Another positive attribute is the excellent handling. With its smooth-riding suspension, the Taos provides a “gentle ride,” per U.S. News. It’s also agile, with respectable cornering abilities. The braking is confident as well.

Furthering the value of the subcompact SUV is its good fuel economy. It gets an estimated gas mileage of up to 28 city/36 highway mpg.

Additionally, the Taos comes standard with many features. Even for the base S trim, customers get push-button start, keyless access, LED lighting, and the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit with an eight-inch screen. It also has many driving assistance technologies, including a blind-spot monitor, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, rear traffic alert, and pedestrian detection.

Are there any changes for the 2023 Taos?

The 2023 Taos is mostly a carryover model — but it has some upgrades across the trim lineup. This includes the aforementioned driving assistance technologies, which are now standard for all trim levels. 

Additionally, the SE trim has the newly standard IQ.DRIVE driving assistance system, while the SEL trim features a panoramic sunroof. Also, the S trim upgrades to larger 18-inch wheels. 

Like other automakers that sell vehicles in the United States, Volkswagen is moving toward a more SUV-heavy lineup. And for drivers that desire a model that is financially accessible, the 2023 VW Taos is an excellent choice. It’s the cheapest new Volkswagen SUV — and offers superb value with all that it has to offer. 

Related 2023 Volkswagen Taos: Price, Features, and Specs

2023 Volkswagen Taos: Price, Features, and Specs