The 2024 Volkswagen Taos features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that generates up to 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, it achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. In contrast, the Honda HR-V comes with a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, but it is less efficient, with an EPA rating of 26 MPG city and 32 MPG highway.

Both models offer optional all-wheel drive, but the VW Taos's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system stands out. It can distribute power between the front and rear wheels for optimal traction and includes four driving modes: Snow, On-Road, Off-Road, and Off-Road Custom Mode. Additionally, the Taos's 4MOTION AWD is paired with a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, ensuring dynamic performance with quick, smooth, and efficient shifting.

The 2024 Volkswagen Taos is loaded with practical technology for everyday driving. It features the standard VW Digital Cockpit with an 8-inch fully digital instrument cluster and the MIB2 Composition Color unit with a 6.5-inch capacitive touchscreen display. In comparison, the Honda HR-V offers a 7-inch Audio Display touchscreen with Apple CarPlay compatibility and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, while select trims have a 9-inch Display Audio touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration.

The 2024 VW Taos can be upgraded to the advanced VW Digital Cockpit Pro, which includes a 10.25-inch fully configurable display that allows customization of displayed information, such as speed, travel time, route guidance, and driver assist features. Higher trims of the Taos offer the MIB3 infotainment system with 8-inch glass-covered displays and Discover Media with navigation for an enhanced experience. Additionally, the Taos includes App-Connect for wireless connectivity, wireless charging, and the BeatsAudio system, which features 8 speakers, a subwoofer, and a 12-channel, 400-watt amplifier.

All 2024 Volkswagen Taos models are equipped with IQ.DRIVE, a comprehensive suite of driver assist technologies designed to make driving easier. The Taos includes features such as Travel Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, Front Assist, Emergency Assist, and Lane Assist. In comparison, the Honda HR-V's Honda Sensing suite offers features like Collision Mitigation Braking System™, Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Traffic Sign Recognition System.

In addition, the 2024 VW Taos incorporates intuitive driver assist features that alleviate driving stress, including Light Assist, Dynamic Road Sign Display, and Park Distance Control with Maneuver Braking. This system can automatically apply the brakes to help prevent collisions with stationary objects while reversing, and it alerts you when you're too close to obstacles. The Taos also includes a Rear View Camera System, Intelligent Crash Response System, Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and six stability-enhancing systems for added safety.

The 2024 Volkswagen Taos boasts a spacious interior with the flexibility you expect from a compact SUV. It features a heated, leatherette-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel for added comfort and easy access to various vehicle functions. The all-new VW Taos offers seating options including two-tone cloth, CloudTex and cloth, or available ventilated leather seats with contrast stitching. In comparison, the Honda HR-V includes heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, body-stabilizing front seats with lumbar and side supports, and available perforated leather on the EX-L trim.

The Honda HR-V provides 24.4 cubic feet of trunk volume and 55.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity. However, the 2024 VW Taos offers more storage, with 27.9 cubic feet behind the second row and an impressive 65.9 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. Enhancing the overall experience, the VW Taos features modern cabin amenities such as an available panoramic sunroof, a 10-color LED ambient lighting system, and the Climatronic system with electronic controls that adjust the level of cool air based on factors like the position and intensity of the sun and the outside temperature.