The Volkswagen Taos has had a fascinating history in its short time in the automotive marketplace. Starting as the Volkswagen Tharu in China, it was released for limited markets with decent success. As the need for compact SUVs grew in the Americas, Volkswagen brought the Tharu to North America, South America, and Russia as the Taos in 2020. The Taos was named after a small town in New Mexico where John Muir lived. Muir was a resident of Taos that became known throughout the world for his literature published on maintaining and repairing older Volkswagen models.

With the Taos having a few years on the market, it’s an attractive option for anyone looking for a compact SUV. So, how much can you expect to spend on one? Here’s everything you need to know about the 2023 Volkswagen Taos and how much you can expect to spend on a fully loaded, top trim level model.

Volkswagen Taos S: price, specs, and features

According to Volkswagen, the base model 2023 Volkswagen Taos is the Taos S, which starts at $24,155 MSRP. As a Volkswagen SUV under the $25,000 price point, it is already an impressive package. This baseline trim comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with standard keyless entry and pushbutton start. Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking are also standard, as is a blind spot monitoring system and digital instrument display.

The standard 6.5-inch infotainment screen may be small for some, but smartphone integration is standard. For those looking for a small SUV to take on adventures, the S trim level comes standard with roof rails and rugged 17-inch wheels. Additionally, the interior is comfortable with soft-touch surfaces and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Volkswagen Taos SEL: price, specs, and features

Starting at $34,535 MSRP is the top-of-the-line 2023 Volkswagen Taos SEL, which takes the already impressive S trim and fills it with some seriously luxurious features. Some of these features include a heated windshield washer nozzles, heated side mirrors, power sunroof, rain-sensing wiper blades, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, leather seating surfaces, ventilated front seats, an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, remote engine start, and wireless device charging.

The old digital gauge cluster has been upgraded to a huge 10.25-inch digital gauge clutter that can be customized with user profiles. While the old 1.5-liter engine from the base model is found in this trim, the SEL shines as the Taos with as many luxury features as possible.

Accessories, packages, and add-ons for the Taos

If you are looking at getting behind the wheel of a top-of-the-line 2023 Volkswagen Taos SEL, you can expect to spend around $40,809 MSRP.

This includes premium paint for $395, a baby mirror for $92, base carrier bars for the roof racks for $315, Basecamp styling components for $1,050, a bike mount for $190, the Bumperdillo bumper guard for $120, and a cargo box for $735. Other small accessories include tablet holders, rear seat covers, and floor mats, bringing the total to $39,514 MSRP without the added destination charge.

The Volkswagen Taos is an excellent vehicle for any small SUV shopper. While it may be a bit pricey on the higher-end trim levels, a good amount of standard features on the low end make this Volkswagen a real winner in its class.