If you are looking for a compact SUV that offers a spacious, comfortable, and stylish interior, you might want to check out the 2023 Volkswagen Taos.
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos interior is designed to impress, with features such as a digital cockpit, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, ambient lighting, and a wireless smartphone charger.
But that’s not all.
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos interior also has a surprise that will make you fall in love with this vehicle.
Want to know what it is?
Read on to find out more about the 2023 Volkswagen Taos interior in this complete guide.
Is The 2023 Taos Roomy Enough For 5 Passengers?
Yes, the 2023 Volkswagen Taos can comfortably accommodate 5 passengers.
Here’s why:
Rear Passenger Space
- Despite being a subcompact SUV, the Taos offers more rear legroom (37.9 inches) than some larger competitors like the Honda CR-V (37.8 inches).
- Headroom is also ample, even for taller passengers.
Seating Flexibility
- The rear seats offer good support and can be folded down in a 60/40 split, providing versatility for cargo needs.
Caveats
- While comfortable for 5, the shoulder room might feel slightly narrower than in larger SUVs, especially for three adults in the back.
- If you frequently carry multiple car seats or large passengers, a larger SUV might be a better option.
Does The Cargo Area Fit All Your Gear?
Whether the 2023 Taos cargo area fits all your gear depends on two key factors:
1. How much “gear” are you talking about?
- Everyday errands: With 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats (FWD models), the Taos offers ample space for groceries, luggage for weekend trips, or sports equipment like backpacks and soccer balls.
- Bulkier cargo: Folding the rear seats expands the cargo area to 65.9 cubic feet (FWD) or 60.2 cubic feet (AWD), which is larger than many competitors in its class. This accommodates strollers, camping gear, or even disassembled bikes.
- Heavy-duty hauling: The payload capacity is 937 pounds, suitable for most everyday cargo loads. However, for heavier items or frequent large hauls, a larger SUV might be more appropriate.
2. What kind of “gear” is it?
- Shape and size: The cargo area layout is relatively square, providing good flexibility for fitting various items. However, if you have particularly bulky or oddly shaped gear, measuring the available space beforehand is crucial.
- Hidden compartments: The Taos offers hidden under-floor storage compartments to stash smaller items and maximize usable space.
How Comfortable Are The Seats For Long Drives?
Comfort perception is subjective, but here’s a summary of factors influencing the 2023 Taos seat comfort for long drives:
Pros
- Supportive: Both front and rear seats offer supportive cushions and good bolstering, minimizing fatigue on long journeys.
- Space: Headroom and legroom are ample even for taller passengers, reducing cramped feelings.
- Features: Adjustable seats (manual or power depending on trim) with optional heating and ventilation further enhance comfort.
Cons
- Firmness: Some users find the seats a bit firm, especially for long drives.
- Lumbar support: Lumbar support is not standard and only available in higher trims.
- Rear seat recline: Rear seats lack adjustable recline, which can impact comfort for some rear passengers.
Does The Taos Have The Latest Infotainment System?
Yes, the 2023 Taos offers the latest generation Volkswagen infotainment system, depending on the trim level:
- S trim: 6.5-inch touchscreen with basic features like AM/FM radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- SE and SEL trims: 8-inch touchscreen with advanced features like navigation, HD radio, wireless App-Connect (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and multiple USB-C ports.
How Does The Digital Cockpit Work?
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos offers two Digital Cockpit options, depending on trim level:
Standard Digital Cockpit (available on SE and SEL models)
- An 8-inch digital instrument cluster replaces traditional gauges with a customizable display.
- Show essential driving information like speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, trip information, and more.
- Use steering wheel buttons to cycle through different layouts and information views.
- Offers limited customization compared to the upgraded option.
Digital Cockpit Pro (available on SEL and R-Line models)
- A larger 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster provides a more expansive and customizable experience.
- Displays navigation, media information, driver assistance features, and personalized layouts alongside traditional gauges.
- Offers various themes and color options to personalize the display.
- Controlled through steering wheel buttons and touch gestures on the screen.
Are There Enough USB Ports For Everyone?
Yes, the 2023 Volkswagen Taos has enough USB ports for most users, but the number varies depending on trim level:
S Trim:
- Two USB-C ports in the front center console.
SE & SEL Trims:
- Two USB-C ports in the front center console.
- One USB-C port in the rear center console.
SEL R-Line Trim:
- Two USB-C ports in the front center console.
- Two USB-C ports in the rear center console.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Front passengers: All trims have at least two USB ports up front, which should be sufficient for most scenarios.
- Rear passengers: S trim lacks rear ports, but SE and above provide at least one, potentially enough for basic phone charging.
Is The 2023 Taos Interior Worth The Price Tag?
Whether the 2023 Taos interior justifies its price tag depends on your priorities and budget:
Pros
- Spacious and comfortable: Offers surprisingly good legroom and headroom for its size, suitable for most passengers.
- Modern and stylish design: Interior layout and materials reflect a contemporary and upmarket feel.
- Tech-savvy features: Depending on trim, offers advanced infotainment systems, digital cockpits, and driver assistance technologies.
- Practicality: Cargo space is impressive for its class, expanding further with folded seats.
Cons
- The base price might seem high: The starting price can be higher than some competitors in the subcompact SUV segment.
- Base trim lacks features: Standard S trim has basic materials and limited features compared to higher trims.
- Some materials feel budget-oriented: While the design is modern, some plastic components might not feel as premium as in pricier rivals.
What Unexpected Features Does 2023 Volkswagen Taos The Taos Offer?
While some surprises could be subjective, here are two unexpected features the 2023 Volkswagen Taos offers:
1. Hidden Storage Compartments
Beyond the standard glovebox and console compartments, the Taos cleverly hides several smaller storage areas:
- Passenger-side dashboard compartment: Opens via a button, perfect for valuables or sunglasses.
- Under-floor cargo compartments: Accessible from the rear cargo area, ideal for stashing smaller items.
- Rear seatback pockets: Not standard across all trims, but offer additional storage in some models.
These compartments provide unexpected space solutions, enhancing practicality and organization.
2. Customizable Ambient Lighting (higher trims)
While ambient lighting might not be entirely unheard of, the Taos offers a unique twist:
- Multiple color options: Choose from a wide range of colors to personalize the cabin mood.
- Adjustable intensity: Control the brightness to create a subtle or vibrant atmosphere.
- Illuminated footwells: Add an extra touch of sophistication and style.
How Does The Taos Compare To Other Compact Suvs In Terms Of Interior?
Here’s a quick comparison of the 2023 Volkswagen Taos interior to its main competitors in the compact SUV segment:
Pros
- More rear legroom: Compared to the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and Toyota C-HR, the Taos boasts better rear legroom, offering more comfort for passengers.
- Spacious cargo area: With the seats folded, the Taos cargo space surpasses most competitors, except for the Hyundai Kona, making it ideal for bulky cargo.
- Modern design: The Taos interior presents a clean and modern aesthetic, appealing to those who prefer a contemporary feel.
- Tech options: Depending on the trim, the Taos offers advanced tech features like a digital cockpit and wireless connectivity, matching or exceeding some rivals.
Cons
- Base trim materials: The standard S trim has basic materials that might feel less premium compared to competitors’ starting trims.
- Rear seat comfort: Although spacious, the Taos rear seats lack features like adjustable headrests or reclining options, found in some rivals.
- Headroom for tall drivers: While most passengers find headroom ample, taller drivers might find the front seats slightly tighter than in some competitors.
Overall
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos interior offers an impressive balance of space, tech, and modern design within the compact SUV segment. However, base trim materials and limited rear seat comfort might be drawbacks for some. To choose the perfect fit, consider your priorities:
- Space: Prioritize rear legroom and cargo space. Taos excels.
- Tech: Value advanced features and digital displays? Taos offers competitive options.
- Luxury: Seek premium materials and comfort features. Some competitors might be a better fit.
Should You Choose The Taos Over Its Competitors Based On Interior Features?
Unfortunately, recommending or choosing one car over another depends on individual needs and priorities. While I can highlight the 2023 Volkswagen Taos’s interior features compared to competitors, the decision ultimately rests on what matters most to you.
Here’s a brief overview of the Taos’s interior features and how it compares to some competitors:
Pros
- Spaciousness: Impressive rear legroom and decent cargo space, surpassing some rivals like the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-30.
- Modern design: Clean and contemporary aesthetics compared to some competitors.
- Tech options: Higher trims offer advanced features like digital cockpit and wireless connectivity, matching or exceeding rivals.
Cons
- Base trim materials: Standard S trim’s materials might feel less premium than competitors’ starting trims.
- Rear seat comfort: Lacks adjustable headrests and reclining options compared to some rivals.
- Headroom for tall drivers: Might be slightly tighter in front compared to some competitors.
Here are some questions to consider before deciding
- What are your priorities? Do you value space, technology, design, or premium materials the most?
- Which features are essential for you? Do you need a digital cockpit, ample cargo space, or specific comfort features?
- What is your budget? Higher trims with more features will cost more.
How Much Is The 2023 Taos?
The starting price of the 2023 Volkswagen Taos depends on the trim level you choose:
- S Trim: Starts at $25,450
- SE Trim: Starts at $30,220
- SEL Trim: Starts at $35,830
- SEL R-Line Trim: Starts at $38,230
Is Taos Better Than Tiguan?
Unfortunately, determining definitively whether the Taos is “better” than the Tiguan is impossible without understanding your specific needs and priorities. Both are SUVs from Volkswagen, but they cater to different segments and offer distinct features.
Here’s a breakdown of key differences to help you decide:
Size & Space
- Taos: Compact SUV, suitable for 5 passengers and moderate cargo needs.
- Tiguan: Mid-size SUV, offers more legroom, headroom, and cargo space, ideal for families or frequent outdoor adventures.
Price
- Taos: Starts at $25,450, offering a more budget-friendly option.
- Tiguan: Starts at $32,795, slightly more expensive but potentially offering more value depending on desired features.
Features & Technology
- Taos: Base models have basic features, but higher trims offer modern options like a digital cockpit and wireless connectivity.
- Tiguan: Offers more standard features and advanced technology options even in base trims.
Performance
- Taos: Smaller engine offers good fuel economy, suitable for city driving.
- Tiguan: More powerful engine options (including hybrid) cater to diverse driving needs and offer more towing capacity.
Important: What Are The 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI Configurations?
What Is The Volkswagen Taos Comparable To?
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos is comparable to other subcompact SUVs, specifically those offering a balance of space, features, and performance. Here are some key competitors:
Similar Size & Interior Space
- Honda HR-V: Offers slightly more rear legroom but less cargo space, known for reliability and fuel efficiency.
- Mazda CX-30: Stylish design, upscale interior feel, but less rear legroom and cargo space compared to Taos.
- Toyota C-HR: Funky design, good fuel economy, but cramped rear seat and limited cargo space.
Focus on Technology & Features
- Hyundai Kona: Packed with standard features and technology, offers hybrid and electric options, but slightly smaller cargo space.
- Kia Seltos: Similar interior space and feature offering to Taos, with competitive pricing and a longer warranty.
- Chevrolet Trailblazer: More tech features in base trims, sportier design, but smaller cargo space and less refined driving experience.
Driving Performance & Cargo
- Nissan Kicks: Excellent fuel economy, spacious cargo area, but lacks power and some standard features.
- Subaru Crosstrek: All-wheel drive standard, good ground clearance, spacious interior, but less fuel-efficient.
- Ford EcoSport: Unique cargo options, competitive pricing, but cramped rear seat and less refined driving experience.
How Many Models Of Taos Are There?
There are four different models of the 2023 Volkswagen Taos available:
- S Trim
- SE Trim
- SEL Trim
- SEL R-Line Trim
How Much Is The 2023 Vw Taos In Canada?
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos starts at CAD 26,995 in Canada for the base Trendline FWD model. Here’s a breakdown of the starting prices for each trim level:
- Trendline FWD: CAD 26,995
- Trendline 4MOTION: CAD 29,595 (limited availability)
- Comfortline FWD: CAD 31,395
- Comfortline 4MOTION: CAD 33,995
- Highline 4MOTION: CAD 37,695
What Are 2023 Volkswagen Taos Interior Colors?
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos offers a limited selection of interior color options depending on the trim level you choose:
S Trim
- Gray and black: This is the only interior color option available on the base S trim. The seats are gray cloth with black accents, and the dashboard and carpeting are black.
SE Trim
- Gray and black: Similar to the S trim, this option features gray cloth seats with black accents, a black dashboard, and black carpeting.
- Black: This option features black cloth seats, a black dashboard, and black carpeting for a more monochromatic look.
SEL Trim
- Gray and black: Similar to the lower trims, this option continues the gray cloth seats with black accents, black dashboard, and black carpeting.
- French Roast and black: This upscaled option introduces brown leatherette seats with black accents, a black dashboard, and black carpeting, offering a more premium feel.
SEL R-Line Trim
- French Roast and black: This continues to be the only interior color option on the top-of-the-line R-Line trim, featuring brown leatherette seats with black accents, a black dashboard, and black carpeting.
Also Read: What Is The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Towing Capacity?
Conclusion
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos interior is more than just a comfortable and spacious cabin.
It is also a smart and innovative space that offers a surprise feature that sets it apart from other compact SUVs.
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos interior has a hidden storage compartment under the rear seat, where you can stash your valuables, tools, or extra luggage.
This feature adds more versatility and convenience to the 2023 Volkswagen Taos interior, making it a great choice for any adventure.
We hope you enjoyed this complete guide to the 2023 Volkswagen Taos interior.
If you want to experience the surprise for yourself, book a test drive today.
