If you've been eyeing a Volkswagen Taos compact SUV, then look no further than the comprehensive 2026 Volkswagen Taos trims! This two-row model is surprisingly spacious for being a compact SUV, providing a total of 65.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. It was redesigned in 2025, which means you're getting the absolute latest in VW tech, safety, and comfort features within the 2026 trims. This guide from Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Kennesaw compares each model side-by-side to help you make an informed choice. Browse them below, then book a test drive with us!
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| 2026 Volkswagen Taos S | 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE | 2026 Volkswagen Taos SE Black | 2026 Volkswagen Taos SEL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L 4-cyl | 1.5L 4-cyl | 1.5L 4-cyl | 1.5L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 174 | 174 | 174 | 174 |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD available) | FWD (AWD available) | FWD (AWD available) | AWD |
| Transmission | 8-spd auto | 8-spd auto | 8-spd auto | 8-spd auto |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Legroom (front / rear) | 40.1 / 37.9 in | 40.1 / 37.9 in | 40.1 / 37.9 in | 40.1 / 37.9 in |
| Standard cargo capacity | 27.9 cu ft | 27.9 cu ft | 27.9 cu ft | 24.9 cu ft |
| Maximum cargo capacity | 65.9 cu ft | 65.9 cu ft | 65.9 cu ft | 60.2 cu ft |
| Maximum towing capacity | Not recommended for towing | Not recommended for towing | Not recommended for towing | Not recommended for towing |
| Key standard features |
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Everything from SE, plus:
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| Standard safety and driver-assistance features |
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The entry-level S trim is far from basic. It starts the lineup off strong with a standard heated steering wheel, App-Connect smartphone integration via USB to use your favorite apps for navigation and media, and comfortable cloth seating is standard. An 8-inch touchscreen sits front and center, and it also has an 8-inch digital driver information display. On the exterior, the S has LED projector headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED taillights with an illuminated rear VW emblem. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and has black roof rails, as well as rain-sensing front wipers. In short, this trim is ideal for drivers who want modern tech and comfort but don't want to pay extra for more frills.

The VW Taos SE builds on the strong foundation that the S started. It has slightly larger 18-inch alloy wheels and upgrades the seating material to CloudTex and cloth. Drivers will be thrilled with a wireless App-Connect system in this trim, as well as wireless device charging and dual-zone automatic climate control. Exterior upgrades include an Adaptive Front Lighting System with dynamic cornering lights, helping illuminate curves as you drive them. The Volkswagen Taos SE is ideal for drivers who want a bit more convenience than the base model, as it comes with a handful of extra creature comforts.

SE Black is exactly what it sounds like: the SE trim with blacked-out styling. It comes with all the standard features from the SE trim, and it adds a couple of extras, including an integrated light bar in the front grille and a power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof. Most features are the same as the SE trim, aside from its exterior and interior blacked-out styling elements. This version is ideal for drivers who want a mid-tier trim with sportier aesthetics. It rides on 18-inch black alloy wheels with all-season tires, giving it a bit of a rugged aesthetic.

Sitting pretty atop the trim range for the VW Taos is the SEL. This configuration packs a lot into one package! Drivers will enjoy a 10.25-inch VW Digital Cockpit Pro information screen, and the 8-inch infotainment system gets a voice control upgrade. The seats are leather, and the front seats get heat and ventilation for year-round comfort. It rides on 19-inch wheels, giving it a more elevated look, and comes with VW Premium Audio, ambient interior lighting, and heated side mirrors. When you want all the amenities the Taos has to offer, this is your trim.
Leasing can make it more affordable to step up to a higher package, and you can lease a VW Taos right here at Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Kennesaw!

Now that you know what each model is equipped with, visit us to tour and test-drive the one that speaks to you in person. Still shopping around? Read our VW Taos vs. Tiguan guide to help you make a decision!
Every Volkswagen Taos trim has available all-wheel drive, and the top-tier SEL model comes with 4MOTION AWD as standard. For the three base models, they start with front-wheel drive, but you can opt for the 4MOTION AWD drivetrain instead if you'd like. Each variant has the same 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission. Visit us for a test-drive today.
The Volkswagen Taos has standard leather seats in the SEL trim level. This trim also provides a host of other premium features, including heated and ventilated front seats for all-season comfort. A 10.25-inch digital driver information screen keeps pertinent information in your line of sight, and you can navigate your 8-inch infotainment system with voice control without taking your hands off the wheel.