2026 Hyundai Kona SE vs 2025 Volkswagen Taos S
On paper, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S wins on 27 more hp, 52 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $195 price gap, 147 vs 174 hp, 28 vs 28 MPG.
The Taos S leads on 27 more hp, 52 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 | 2026 Hyundai Kona SE | 2025 Volkswagen Taos S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,000 | $27,195 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 174 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 14.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,441 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 105.5" |
| Length | 171.3" | 175.9" |
| Width | 71.9" | 72.5" |
| Height | 63.2" | 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 2026 Hyundai Kona SE and 2025 Volkswagen Taos S?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE starts at $27,000, $195 less than the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S at $27,195. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $195 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S is the stronger pick when the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2025 Volkswagen Taos S?
Both achieve 28 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2025 Volkswagen Taos S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S produces 174 hp, 27 more than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at 147 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S is 4.6″ longer at 175.9″ vs 171.3″. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S 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
- 2026 Hyundai Kona SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Volkswagen Taos S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Kona vs Taos: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE and 2025 Volkswagen Taos S sit in the subcompact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $195 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S has 27 more hp (174 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Volkswagen Taos S adds 52 more lb-ft of torque (184 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Kona vs Taos
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE when you want to keep $195 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S when the 2025 Volkswagen Taos S is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
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.