Compare The Volkswagen Taos to The Kia Seltos

Energetic and Efficient Performance

The new Volkswagen Taos comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces a robust 158 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft of torque. This potent powerplant delivers a seven-speed automatic transmission and achieves up to 28 mpg city/36 mpg highway, helping Portsmouth, NH drivers save at the pump.

In contrast, the Kia Seltos' base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine outputs only 146 horsepower and 132 lb.-ft of torque, resulting in more sluggish performance compared to the Taos. The Seltos' available 1.6-liter turbo upgrade improves acceleration somewhat, but still falls short of the Taos' standard powertrain. The Seltos' fuel economy also lags behind the Taos, with ratings of 27 mpg city/31 mpg highway for the base engine and 25 mpg city/30 mpg highway for the turbo.

Exciting Technology

Step inside the Volkswagen Taos and you'll be greeted by one of the most advanced and user-friendly infotainment systems in the subcompact SUV class. An eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android comes standard, allowing Dover, NH drivers to connect their devices to the car's speakers. Higher trims feature an expansive 10.25-inch display that replaces the conventional instrument cluster with a customizable high-resolution screen. Wireless device charging and a premium eight-speaker BeatsAudio sound system are also available for tech-savvy buyers. While the Kia Seltos offers a larger standard 10.25-inch touchscreen, it still doesn't offer a gauge cluster that matches the Volkswagen Taos.

Uncompromising Safety

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos' exceptional safety credentials indicate top-notch performance in crash tests and accident avoidance. Every Taos comes standard with essential driver aids such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist are also offered, providing an extra layer of convenience and security for Epping, NH drivers.

Although the Kia Seltos has many similar standard safety technologies as the Taos, its driver assistance features are not as robust as those found in the Taos. York, ME drivers who prioritize safety will find more peace of mind with the Taos.

Spacious and Versatile Interior

Despite its subcompact dimensions, the Volkswagen Taos boasts a surprisingly roomy and accommodating interior. With 99.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, the Taos offers ample headroom and legroom for occupants in both rows. Rear seat passengers will appreciate the Taos' sliding and reclining bench, a rare feature in this class. Cargo capacity is another strong suit, with 27.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 65.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, providing ample space for luggage, groceries, or gear.

The Kia Seltos provides 98.0 cubic feet of passenger volume, slightly less than the Taos. While the Seltos' rear seats are also reasonably spacious, they lack the sliding and reclining functionality of the Taos. The Seltos offers similar cargo capacity to the Taos, with 26.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 62.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, the Taos' interior materials and overall fit and finish feel more upscale and refined compared to the Seltos.