2025 Volkswagen Taos S vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred
On paper, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S wins on $705 less. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $705 price gap, 174 vs 155 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
The Taos S leads on $705 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 Volkswagen Taos S | 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,195 | $27,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 174 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,441 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.5" | 102.0" |
| Length | 175.9" | 171.2" |
| Width | 72.5" | 71.4" |
| Height | 65.1" | 64.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S starts at $27,195, $705 less than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at $27,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $12/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $705 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred is the stronger pick when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S produces 174 hp, 19 more than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at 155 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 174 lb-ft. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S is 4.7″ longer at 175.9″ vs 171.2″. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S has a 3.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Volkswagen Taos comes with 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. The Buick Encore GX offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Taos trims, Buick trims, Buick Encore GX trims
How the Taos and Encore GX Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S ($27,195) and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred ($27,900) solve similar problems in different ways. The $705 gap is about $12/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Taos vs Encore GX
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 19 hp difference (174 vs 155) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S when you want to keep $705 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment. At $12/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 Volkswagen or Buick or any dealership.