Volkswagen Jetta vs. Toyota Corolla vs. Honda Civic

Continuing to set the benchmark for the segment, the Volkswagen Jetta builds on its reputation for being one of the world's most successful sedans. Offering a stylish exterior design paired with enhanced performance — the Volkswagen Jetta was designed not to just 'contend with' but to surpass the best compact sedans in the segment — including the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla.

Compact sedans have remained popular with buyers for decades thanks to their efficiency, value, and fun-to-drive nature. Two of the best-selling vehicles in this segment are the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. Each of these rivals has rightfully earned its reputation, but let's see how they measure up to the impressive Volkswagen Jetta.

Volkswagen Jetta vs Toyota Corolla vs Honda Civic

2023 Volkswagen Jetta	Model	2023 Toyota Corolla LE (CVT)	2023 Honda Civic Sport (CVT)
$20,655	Starting MSRP	$21,550	$25,050
31 / 41 / 35	City/Hwy/Combined MPG	31 / 40 / 34	30 / 37 / 33
184 @ 1,750 RPM	Torque	151 @ 4,400 RPM	138 @ 4,200 RPM
8-Speed Automatic	Transmission	CVT	CVT
Tiptronic	Sequential Shift Control	N/A	N/A
Aluminum	Wheel Material	Steel with Wheel Covers	Aluminum
4 Years / 50,000 Miles	Warranty Coverage	3 Years / 36,000 Miles	3 Years / 36,000 Miles

At first glance, these three vehicles may appear to have some commonalities. All 3 have similar starting MSRPs and fuel economy numbers, but that's where the similarities end and the Jetta distinguishes itself from the competition.

In terms of performance, the Volkswagen Jetta shines in comparison to the Corolla and Civic. The Jetta delivers 184 lb-ft of torque for superior response and agility, while the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic trail behind. Jetta drivers will also enjoy a far more sophisticated 8-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic sequential shift control for crisp, lightning-fast gear changes. The Corolla and Civic each come standard with a CVT automatic transmission which is built more for fuel economy than it is performance or driving enjoyment. Superior fuel economy numbers allow Jetta drivers to spend less time and money at the pump.

While these three competitors share similar starting MSRPs, the Civic doesn’t have an entry-level trim to match the other two, and is only competitive when comparing higher trims. The Volkswagen Jetta delivers outstanding value in terms of standard amenities in addition to a lower price tag. For example, the Jetta comes standard with aluminum wheels which provide a stylish touch to the exterior. The Civic has these too, but can’t compete with the Jetta’s price point, and the Corolla comes with less attractive steel wheels with wheel covers.

Lastly, both the Toyota Corolla and the Honda Civic are unable to compete with the 4-Year / 50,000-Mile Volkswagen Basic Warranty. For greater peace of mind and confidence behind the wheel, smart shoppers continue to choose Volkswagen over the competition.