2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2020 Volkswagen Passat

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a master of understatement, presenting itself as a modest 5-door hatchback that belied its true performance potential. Its design was subtle, with a 2-box structure, honeycomb grille, and red accents, which only hinted at the power within. The Rabbit Edition, a nod to GTI heritage, added unique touches like gloss black 18-inch wheels and a rear roof spoiler, though some found the gloss-black trim and bunny badge a bit excessive. Inside, the GTI maintained a straightforward and quality-focused design, with a dashboard and controls that were both functional and stylish. The Clark Plaid cloth upholstery added a playful touch to an otherwise serious interior.

In contrast, the 2020 Volkswagen Passat carried a familiar design, reminiscent of its predecessors and the Jetta. While the exterior might not have been groundbreaking, the interior was spacious and comfortable, designed with American sensibilities in mind. The dashboard retained a traditional layout, with a smaller 6.3-inch touchscreen that lacked the latest VW technology. Despite the use of glossy plastic, the Passat was easy to maintain and offered a straightforward, user-friendly experience. The R-Line trim added a sporty flair, but overall, the Passat prioritized practicality and ease of use over flashy design elements.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a thrill to drive, thanks to its turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivered 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The VAQ limited-slip differential enhanced traction and handling, making the GTI a joy on twisty roads. Its 6-speed manual transmission offered smooth gear changes, and the car's progressive steering and adaptive suspension provided a dynamic driving experience. However, the ride could be stiff, and road noise was noticeable at higher speeds. Fuel economy was decent, with an EPA rating of 27 mpg combined, though real-world results varied.

The 2020 Volkswagen Passat, while not as powerful, offered a reliable and straightforward driving experience. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine produced 174 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Passat's steering was light yet precise, and its brakes were effective, though the suspension tuning left something to be desired. The ride was firm over bumps but could feel floaty on undulating roads. Despite these quirks, the Passat managed to deliver a predictable and comfortable drive, with a fuel economy rating of 27 mpg combined.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI was a versatile choice for families and driving enthusiasts alike. Its interior featured height-adjustable front seats with robust bolsters, ample storage options, and a clear view of the road. While backseat space was limited, the GTI offered a practical trunk with a maximum cargo capacity of 52.7 cubic feet. The car's design allowed for easy loading and unloading, making it suitable for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.

The 2020 Volkswagen Passat excelled in interior space and comfort, with wide seats, large door openings, and room for five passengers. The trunk offered 15.9 cubic feet of space, easily accommodating luggage and strollers. The Passat's design prioritized utility, with features like rear air conditioning vents and available seat heaters enhancing passenger comfort. Its spacious interior made it an attractive option for families seeking a practical and affordable sedan.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI's infotainment system varied by trim, with the Rabbit Edition featuring a basic 6.5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration. Higher trims offered an 8-inch display, HD Radio, and a Fender premium sound system. While the system was functional, it lacked some modern features, and connectivity issues were noted with certain apps. The GTI also included adaptive LED lighting and optional parking assistance on higher trims.

The 2020 Volkswagen Passat's infotainment system was simple, with a 6.3-inch touchscreen, App Connect, and a standard 6-speaker sound system. SEL trim added navigation and a Fender sound system. The Passat's system was straightforward, reminiscent of older designs with physical buttons and knobs. Additional features like remote engine start and parking assist were available, enhancing convenience.

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The GTI Autobahn added adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The car received a 5-star NHTSA rating, though some areas were rated slightly lower. The IIHS also gave the GTI high marks, with some room for improvement in specific tests.

The 2020 Volkswagen Passat came equipped with comprehensive safety systems, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The SE trim added adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, while SEL included parking sensors and adaptive headlights. The Passat earned a top rating of Good from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.