2026 Volkswagen Taos S vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred
The Taos S and Encore GX Preferred trade advantages, not trim levels. Key numbers: 174 vs 155 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
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 | 2026 Volkswagen Taos S | 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $28,200 | $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 2026 Volkswagen Taos S and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred starts at $27,900, $300 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S at $28,200. 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 Volkswagen Taos S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S is the stronger pick when 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 want to keep $300 in your pocket and the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S produces 174 hp, 19 more than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at 155 hp. The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 174 lb-ft. The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S is 4.7″ longer at 175.9″ vs 171.2″. The 2026 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
The Taos–Encore GX Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Taos and Encore GX compare. The $-300 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.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 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.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Volkswagen Taos S saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Taos S when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred when you want to keep $300 in your pocket and the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred 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 Buick or any dealership.