“Compact” SUVs have gotten awfully big. They’ve also gotten awfully expensive, with the Honda CR-Vs and Toyota RAV4s of the world quickly approaching $40,000. For families or those simply looking for an ample amount of space and utility, that might mean going the used route,
but before you do, there is a smart alternative: the 2024 Volkswagen Taos. Technically, it’s a subcompact SUV, but it has a genuinely family-friendly back seat and a cargo area that can fit more inside it than plenty of SUVs one price category above.
That size alone equates to strong value for the VW Taos, with most trim levels costing just over $30,000. It doesn’t stop there. Feature content is ample, interior quality is well above-average and you should be able to get 30 mpg. We also think the Taos looks pretty cool, too, with its of-the-moment body cladding, black wheels and available contrast roof.
All of this adds up to one of our top-recommended small SUVs along with the Buick Envista, Chevy Trax and Kia’s Seltos and Niro hybrid. The Ford Bronco Sport and Subaru Crosstrek should also be considered by those attracted to the Taos’ extra utility and quasi-rugged vibe.
