2025 Hyundai Kona Limited vs 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL
$2,300 less vs 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,300 price gap, 190 vs 174 hp, 26 vs 28 MPG.
The Kona Limited leads on $2,300 less. The Taos SEL leads on 2 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited | 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,600 | $35,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.6L I4 Turbo | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 174 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 14.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,505 lbs | 3,441 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 105.5" |
| Length | 171.3" | 175.9" |
| Width | 71.9" | 72.5" |
| Height | 63.6" | 65.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited and 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited starts at $33,600, $2,300 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL at $35,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $40/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,300 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited or 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited or 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited produces 190 hp, 16 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL at 174 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited also leads in torque at 195 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited runs a 1.6L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL is 4.6″ longer at 175.9″ vs 171.3″. The 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL has a 0.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Kona comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Volkswagen Taos offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Kona trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Taos trims
Kona vs Taos: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited and 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL sit in the subcompact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $2,300 gap is about $40/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited runs a 1.6L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 16 hp difference (190 vs 174) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Kona vs Taos
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited when you want to keep $2,300 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel. At $40/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Volkswagen or any dealership.