When we peeked under the hood of the VW Taos, we found its standard 1.5L 4-cylinder engine can reach 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This provides more muscle than the Kia Seltos. The Kia SUV is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that produces 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque.

As you can see, the VW Taos has more power than the Kia Seltos. Why does this matter? If you’re driving an SUV, more power can help you reach new heights. Increased horsepower and torque provide greater ability to accelerate and climb hills.

These adventurous SUVs both offer available all-wheel drive systems, which helps make even the bumpiest travels feel smooth. However, 4MOTION® all-wheel drive on the VW Taos comes with Active Control: a drive mode select system that helps you adapt to the road via these modes:

• On-Road
• Off-Road
• Custom Off-Road
• Snow

The settings within the On-Road mode can be extended to Normal, Sport, Comfort, and Individual. This allows you to achieve the performance you crave. The Kia’s Drive Mode Select system offers similar modes; however, it goes without Off-Road or Snow settings!

Whether it’s suitcases for an overnight getaway or bags for a camping trip in the wilderness, it’s easier to pack the Volkswagen Taos. Why? The VW Taos has more cargo capacity than the Seltos:

When its rear seats are upright, the VW Taos sports 27.9 cubic feet of storage space. If you need more room, you can fold down the second-row seats to access up to 65.9 cubic feet of cargo volume.

Inside the Seltos, you’ll find just 26.6 cubic feet of storage space. If you need more room than that, you’ll only be able to fit your gear within the 62.8 cubic feet of space when the rear seats are folded down.

The VW Taos and the Kia Seltos seat up to five adults, and each SUV sports over 99 cubic feet of passenger space for them to share! Plus, supple cloth seats come standard on either model, which helps everyone ease into a long commute.

How else can you sink into comfort? Via available CloudTex and cloth seats or leather seats in the VW Taos. On the other hand, you can opt for SynTex seats in the Seltos, which is a leatherette material. So, if you’re looking for a premium experience, choose the VW Taos as it can be upgraded with genuine leather upholstery.

If your family enjoys escaping off the grid for a camping trip, you’ll find the Volkswagen Taos is better prepared for your vacation.

The exterior includes:

• LED headlights
• Roof rails
• 17-inch alloy wheels

Both SUVs are equipped with standard 17-inch alloy wheels. However, thanks to built-in cargo amenities, you’ll be able to roll up to your campsite with everything you need in the VW Taos.

You’ll find more technology with the Volkswagen Taos. Take the available Park Assist feature, for example. This system utilizes cameras to detect potential parking spaces. Then, with the push of a button, the car will steer itself into and out of the space. Navigating crowded parking lots will be a breeze.

Roof rails are not available in every trim of the Kia Seltos, but they are standard on the VW Taos. These convenient rails work with available attachments and accessories like kayak holders, cargo boxes, and more! As a standard feature on the VW Taos, you’ll always have a way to pack more cargo, even when the trunk is already full.