
How Fuel Economy, Low MSRP, and Volkswagen Carefree Maintenance Keep Costs Down
If there’s one huge make-or-break factor that affects the decision-making process of purchasing a new vehicle, it’s cost of ownership. Savvy car buyers must think beyond the sticker price and consider all the different ways their vehicle will impact their budget, both monthly and over the full duration of ownership.
Since cars are a depreciating asset, many buyers gravitate towards brands that strike a balance between affordability and overall quality. That’s one of the big reasons why VW vehicles continue to be top sellers. They prioritize cost of ownership while delivering some of the most advanced technology, infotainment, and safety features ever installed in a vehicle.
To illustrate how VW vehicles save drivers money, we’re breaking down the top cars and SUVs that provide the lowest cost of ownership. After we cover that, we’ll provide some info on how to check these vehicles in person at a VW dealership near you in Utah.
2023 VW Jetta
With a starting MSRP of just $20,655, the 2023 VW Jetta is the most affordable vehicle Volkswagen offers. It also happens to get the best fuel economy, delivering an estimated 29 miles per gallon in the city and 42 miles per gallon on the highway. If this all sounds too good to be true, the Jetta also happens to be a Consumer Reports recommended vehicle. Rest assured, this slick sedan is as reliable as it is affordable.
2023 VW Taos
The Volkswagen Taos is a relative newcomer, but it’s managed to find its niche among its SUV brethren and other VW vehicles. It features the body style, storage, and other classic hallmarks of an SUV, but its subcompact build and light curb weight give the Taos a light and nimble feel. With a starting MSRP of $24,155, the VW Taos is the most affordable Volkswagen SUV the automaker sells. It also delivers fantastic fuel economy, yielding an estimated 28 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway.
2023 VW ID.4
The all-electric 2023 VW ID.4 has a starting MSRP of $38,995, which is clearly much higher than the Taos and the Jetta, but true cost of ownership factors in everything. First, since the VW ID.4 runs on battery, it means you won’t have to pay for the duration of ownership. Of course, this begs the question, “How much will I spend on charging?”
Potentially, nothing for the first three years of ownership. The 2023 VW ID.4 comes with unlimited 30-minute DC fast charging sessions at Electrify America stations for the first three years. Additionally, since the 2023 VW ID.4 is manufactured domestically, it qualifies for the $7,500 electric vehicle tax credit. It’s also worth noting that electric vehicles cost less to maintain when compared to vehicles using a combustion engine.
Other Factors that Reduce Overall Cost of Ownership
According to RepairPal, annual Volkswagen maintenance costs are approximately $676 per year on average. However, all new VW vehicles come with one of America’s leading warranties – Carefree Coverage. Included among the coverages is Volkswagen carefree maintenance, which lasts for two years or 20,000 miles (whichever comes first). By having a VW maintenance plan, drivers will save on things like oil changes, filter changes, and other routine services.
Another thing that affects a car’s value is depreciation. Statistically, most of a vehicle’s depreciation occurs within the first year, and may be as much as 20%. However, drivers will be pleased to know Volkswagen is statistically one of the best cars in terms of resale value. According to CarEdge, they rank Volkswagen as the number one vehicle brand for best five-year resale value at 85%.
Where to Go to See VW Vehicles in Person for a Test Drive
VW vehicles offer some of the lowest cost of ownership in the automotive industry. The VW maintenance plan, fuel economy, and high resale value have made the Volkswagen brand synonymous with affordability.
Those who are in the market for a new SUV or sedan are encouraged to drop by VW SouthTowne, your friendly local Volkswagen dealership in Utah. We carry a wide variety of sedans, SUVs, and compacts that are made to suit any driving style and budget.
Not in the market for a new car? No problem! As the leading VW dealership in Utah, VW SouthTowne carries a large selection of used cars and certified pre-owned vehicles that have undergone a 100+ point inspection. Additionally, we’re always running great deals on VW products and services in our specials section.
VW SouthTowne is located at 11000 South 290 West in South Jordan. For questions or to arrange an appointment, use the contact form on our website or call (801) 988-5825.


