2025 Volkswagen Taos SE vs 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE

On paper, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE wins on $865 less. The 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $865 price gap, 174 vs 174 hp, 28 vs 28 MPG.

The short answer

The Taos SE leads on $865 less. The spec table compares 0 specifications head to head.

$865
Price Gap
Same
HP Diff
Same
Efficiency Diff
Lower price
2025 Volkswagen Taos SE
Starts at $30,095
VS
Higher price
2026 Volkswagen Taos SE
Starts at $30,960

What's Actually Different

These two vehicles differ in 0 specifications.

MSRP
$30,095Taos SE
$30,960Taos SE

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.

Spec2025 Volkswagen Taos SE2026 Volkswagen Taos SE
Pricing
MSRP$30,095$30,960
Powertrain
Engine1.5L I4 Turbo1.5L I4 Turbo
Horsepower174 hp174 hp
Torque184 lb-ft184 lb-ft
Transmission8-speed shiftable automatic8-speed shiftable automatic
DrivetrainAWDAWD
Fuel Economy
City MPG2525
Highway MPG3333
Combined MPG2828
Fuel Tank14.5 gal14.5 gal
Annual Fuel Cost (EPA)$1,550/yr$1,550/yr
Dimensions
Curb Weight3,441 lbs3,441 lbs
Wheelbase105.5"105.5"
Length175.9"175.9"
Width72.5"72.5"
Height65.1"65.1"
Safety
NHTSA Overall4/5 stars4/5 stars
Warranty
Bumper-to-Bumper4yr/50k4yr/50k
Powertrain4yr/50k4yr/50k
Corrosion12yr/unlimited12yr/unlimited
Roadside Assistance4yr/50k4yr/50k

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price difference between the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE and 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE?

The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE starts at $30,095, $865 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE at $30,960. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $15/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.

Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE?

The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $865 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE covers your needs.

Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE?

The 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE is the stronger pick when the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.

Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE or 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE?

Both achieve 28 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.

Which is more powerful, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE or 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE?

Both produce 174 hp.

Is the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE?

Both measure 175.9″ in overall length.

Explore more: Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Taos trims

Official sources

The Taos–Taos Decision

Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Taos and Taos compare. The $865 gap is about $15/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.

What Powers Each Vehicle

Both run the same 1.5L I4 Turbo engine. Both produce 174 hp. Both use AWD.

The Ownership Math

Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.

The Decision

Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE when you want to keep $865 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE when the 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $15/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 any dealership.

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