2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL vs 2026 Nissan Kicks SR
33 more hp and 44 more lb-ft torque vs $7,035 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 174 vs 141 hp, 28 vs 30 MPG.
The Taos SEL leads on 33 more hp, 44 more lb-ft torque. The Kicks SR leads on $7,035 less, 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 Volkswagen Taos SEL | 2026 Nissan Kicks SR |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,195 | $28,160 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 174 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 30 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.5 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | $1,450/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,441 lbs | 3,253 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.5" | 104.9" |
| Length | 175.9" | 171.9" |
| Width | 72.5" | 70.9" |
| Height | 65.1" | 64.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL and 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR starts at $28,160, $7,035 less than the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL at $35,195. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $124/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL is the stronger pick when the extra 33 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR is the stronger pick when you want to keep $7,035 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $100/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL or 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR rates 30 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL or 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL produces 174 hp, 33 more than the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR at 141 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 140 lb-ft. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL bigger than the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL is 4.0″ longer at 175.9″ vs 171.9″. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL has a 0.6″ 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 Nissan Kicks 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, Nissan trims, Nissan Kicks trims
- 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Nissan Kicks SR Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Taos and Kicks Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL ($35,195) and 2026 Nissan Kicks SR ($28,160) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-7,035 gap adds up to $124/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Taos vs Kicks
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR uses a 2.0L I4. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL has 33 more hp (174 vs 141), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL adds 44 more lb-ft of torque (184 vs 140), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR saves roughly $100/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $500.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos SEL when the extra 33 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR when you want to keep $7,035 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR covers your needs.
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 Nissan or any dealership.