What the Volkswagen Configurator Does
The Volkswagen configurator is an online tool on Volkswagen's website that lets you build a car to your specifications before you buy it. You choose the model, exterior color, interior trim, wheels, and optional features, and the tool shows you the price in real time as you make each selection. It does not process a purchase or reserve a vehicle — it is a way to see what your ideal car would cost and what it would look like.
The configurator is free to use and requires no account or personal information. You can start over as many times as you want, save your configurations to review later, and share them with others or bring them to a dealership.
Key Takeaways
- The Volkswagen configurator shows you real pricing as you add options, so you know the exact cost before you talk to a dealer.
- You can save multiple configurations and come back to them later, or email them to yourself or a dealership.
- The tool covers all Volkswagen models sold in the United States, from the Jetta sedan to the ID.Buzz electric van.
- Once you have built a configuration you like, you can use it to start a conversation with a local dealer or to compare against other brands.
How to Start Building a Car
Go to Volkswagen's main website and look for a link labeled "Build and Price" or "Configurator" — the exact wording changes, but it is usually near the top of the page or in a menu under "Shop." Click it to begin.
The first step is to choose which model you want to build. Volkswagen sells sedans (Jetta, Passat), compact cars (Golf), crossovers and SUVs (Taos, Tiguan, Atlas), and electric vehicles (ID.4, ID.5, ID.Buzz). Select the one that interests you, and the tool will move you to the next screen.
If a model comes in multiple generations or body styles — for example, the Tiguan comes as a standard version and a longer "Allspace" version in some markets — you will choose between them at this stage. Take your time here, because switching models later means starting over.
Choosing Trim Level and Exterior Options
After you pick the model, you will see the available trim levels. Volkswagen typically offers three to five trims per model, ranging from a base version with fewer features to a higher trim with more standard equipment. Each trim has a starting price displayed. Click the trim you want to explore.
Next, you will choose the exterior color. The configurator shows you a photo of the car in each color so you can see how it looks. Some colors cost extra — metallic and pearl finishes usually add $300 to $600 to the price, while solid colors are included. The tool updates the price when ready when you select a color.
You will also choose your wheels at this stage. The base trim comes with a standard wheel, but you can upgrade to larger or different designs. Larger wheels and premium designs add to the cost and may affect fuel economy slightly.
Adding Interior Features and Technology
The next section covers the interior. You will see options for upholstery material (cloth, leatherette, or leather depending on the model), seat color, and interior trim finishes. Like exterior colors, some interior options are included with your trim level and others cost extra.
Technology packages come next. These bundles typically include features like a larger touchscreen, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), navigation, premium audio, and driver information features. Volkswagen groups these into packages so you do not have to pick each feature individually — you choose a package level or decline it. The configurator shows what is included in each package before you commit.
Some models also let you add individual options outside of packages, such as a sunroof, heated seats, or a power liftgate. These appear as checkboxes you can toggle on or off.
Understanding the Final Price and Saving Your Configuration
As you make selections, the configurator updates a running total at the top or side of the screen. This total includes the base price of the trim, the cost of any upgrades you selected, and destination charges (the fee Volkswagen charges to ship the car from the factory to a dealer near you). It does not include taxes, dealer fees, or financing costs — those vary by location and dealer.
Once you have built a car you like, you can save the configuration. Most configurators let you save it to your browser, email it to yourself, or generate a link you can share. Some let you save it to your Volkswagen account if you create one. Saving is useful if you want to compare multiple configurations or come back to refine your choices later.
You can also print the configuration or take a screenshot. Many people bring a saved configuration to a dealership to show the salesperson exactly what they want, which can speed up the ordering process.
Using Your Configuration at a Dealership
The configurator is a planning tool, not an ordering system. Once you have decided what you want, you will need to visit or contact a Volkswagen dealership to actually order the car. Bring your saved configuration with you, or show the salesperson the link or printout.
The dealer can tell you how long it will take to build and deliver your car, whether they have that exact configuration in stock, and what financing or lease options are available. Dealer pricing and incentives may differ slightly from the configurator's base price, so confirm the final cost before you commit.
If you are not ready to order, the configurator also helps you compare Volkswagen models against each other or to think through what features matter most to you before you visit a dealership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the configurator show me the exact price I will pay?
The configurator shows the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for your configuration, which includes the base price, options, and destination charges. It does not include taxes, dealer documentation fees, or any incentives or discounts your dealer might offer. Your actual out-the-door price will be different.
Can I order a car directly from the configurator?
No. The configurator is a design and pricing tool only. To order a car, you must contact a Volkswagen dealership. You can use your saved configuration to show the dealer what you want, but the dealer handles the actual order and paperwork.
What if I want a color or option combination the configurator does not show?
The configurator shows all combinations that Volkswagen offers for that model and year. If a color or option does not appear, it is not available for that trim level. A dealer can tell you whether a different trim level offers what you want, or whether you can special-order something outside the standard options.
Can I save multiple configurations and compare them?
Yes. You can build as many configurations as you want and save each one. Most configurators let you open a new configuration without losing the previous one, so you can compare side by side or email multiple versions to yourself or a dealer.
Does using the configurator commit me to anything?
No. Saving or sharing a configuration is completely free and creates no obligation. You can use it to think through your options, compare prices, or show a dealer what interests you without any commitment to buy.