Volkswagen Taos vs. Hyundai Kona

Every trip starts with the roar of the engine coming to life. Creating a masterful motor that powers many years' worth of travel takes countless hours of engineering work. The VW Taos and the Hyundai Kona have similar engine styles, complementing their compact size. What those engines are capable of is another story.

The extra horsepower—upgraded for the most recent model year—from its turbocharged engine gives the VW Taos a mighty kick when you press the accelerator. Its substantial increase in torque lets you rev up into high gear and accelerate briskly down the highway.

A powerful energy source is just the beginning of what makes your drive so satisfying. Having optimal control over your SUV will make driving more confident. Both models come standard with traditional front-wheel drive for predictable handling. However, if you plan on tackling more demanding surfaces like gravel and dirt, you'll need a more versatile system.

Each SUV offers an all-wheel drive (AWD) system for improved handling on tricky terrain. The Volkswagen Taos, however, has a unique upgrade in the form of its 4MOTION® all-wheel drive system. This Volkswagen-exclusive system distributes power between the front and rear wheels based on detected traction and stability needs. It’s an overhauled drivetrain made to handle whatever road you take.

Having accessible tech lets you take command of your drive in many ways. Both models offer the modern amenities you’ve become accustomed to, such as seamless phone pairing and intuitive controls. However, the VW Taos will give you a better view of your most vital driving information. Its 8-inch digital instrument cluster easily stretches beyond the Kona and its 4.2-inch screen.

Both vehicles offer app-based platforms that let you use your smartphone to remotely lock or unlock the doors, locate your parked car, and access other connected services. Likewise, they each come standard with push-button engine start, allowing you to get going the moment you take your seat.

Peace of mind is priceless, and that’s especially true when you’re out in the world. Enhanced safety will help prepare you for the unexpected, and that’s exactly what driver-assistive technologies provide. The Volkswagen Taos includes IQ.DRIVE®, a suite of systems that help keep you alert and aware of your surroundings. It shares several similar features with the Kona, including:

• Forward Collision Warning
• Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring
• High Beam Control
• Lane Assist
• Rear View Camera System

Despite these similar standard features, the VW Taos still comes out on top with additional native tech. Its standard Adaptive Cruise Control adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance behind traffic ahead. You’ll also have added awareness with the standard Blind Spot Monitor, making lane changes even easier.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as having more room. If you’re packing up for an epic solo adventure or getting your gear together to work an event, you’ll need the most space for your equipment. Cargo volume is essential for times like these, and the VW Taos stretches further to fit more of your must-haves.

The Volkswagen Taos gives you more space to pack, whether you’re loading up luggage for a trip with friends or folding down the rear seats for a big weekend away. The VW Taos also offers more room for everyone to get comfortable, with 39.8 inches of rear headroom compared to just 38.3 inches in the Kona!

Since you’ll be spending lots of time in the cabin of your next SUV, it should be a place you look forward to seeing—and being. Choosing between seating materials and color schemes gives you more room to explore and find a layout that fits your tastes. The VW Taos offers five unique looks and three comfortable materials, giving you more ways to make your model unique:

• Gray & Black Cloth
• Black CloudTex
• Gray CloudTex
• Gray & Black Leather
• Night Blue Leather

Opting for either smooth CloudTex or luxurious leather will make your cabin more inviting and comfortable for you and your passengers. The Kona only offers two colors, Black and Gray, and only cloth, a polyester blend, or leatherette upholstery. Freedom of expression comes from having more opportunities, and the VW Taos offers more.