2023 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback

2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
$23,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2023 Volkswagen Jetta
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
$20,655MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
$23,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
$20,655MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta scores 6.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback is the better choice, offering superior safety, functionality, and driving enjoyment.

Overview

MSRP

$23,550

MSRP

$20,655

Average price

$25,258

Average price

$20,964

Listings

744

Listings

509
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

6.8 out of 10
Pros
  • Manual transmission available
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Spacious
Cons
  • Poor value for money
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Stereo is lacking
Pros
  • Great ride and handling
  • Comfortable
  • Impressive safety features
Cons
  • Uninspired styling
  • Sluggish performance
  • All-wheel drive not available

2022 Honda Civic Hatchback Reviews Summary

The very first Honda Civic was a hatchback. In fact, except for the period between 2006 and 2016, a hatch was almost always a part of the Honda Civic lineup. Now in its 11th generation, redesigned for 2022, the Honda Civic is again available as a hatchback, and the automaker expects it to be more popular than at any time since the 1990s. There is good reason for this optimism, as we discovered while testing two versions of the new 2022 Civic hatchback.

2023 Volkswagen Jetta Reviews Summary

The popularity of sedans such as the Jetta might have tumbled as buyers flock to big SUVs and even bigger pickups, but there's still plenty to like about VW's family car.

The base 1.5-litre gas engine's 158 horsepower is plenty for a front-drive family car, and can be paired with either manual or automatic transmission. And for those who get a kick from driving, there's the sportier Jetta GLI with retuned suspension and a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine pumping out 228 horsepower.

All 2023 Jettas feature a pleasant if not very exciting interior design. To make it as smart as possible, we recommend going for SEL trim or above to get VW's upgraded 10.25-inch digital dials and an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 158 hp I4

Engine

1.5L 158 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

158 hp @ 6500 rpm

Horsepower

MPG City

30

MPG City

31

MPG Highway

38

MPG Highway

41
2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
$23,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
$20,655MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
$23,550MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
$20,655MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta scores 6.8 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback is the better choice, offering superior safety, functionality, and driving enjoyment.

Overview
MSRP
$23,550
$20,655
Average price
$25,258
$20,964
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.5
4.0
Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

6.8 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Manual transmission available
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Spacious
Cons
  • Poor value for money
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Stereo is lacking
Pros
  • Great ride and handling
  • Comfortable
  • Impressive safety features
Cons
  • Uninspired styling
  • Sluggish performance
  • All-wheel drive not available
Summary
The very first Honda Civic was a hatchback. In fact, except for the period between 2006 and 2016, a hatch was almost always a part of the Honda Civic lineup. Now in its 11th generation, redesigned for 2022, the Honda Civic is again available as a hatchback, and the automaker expects it to be more popular than at any time since the 1990s. There is good reason for this optimism, as we discovered while testing two versions of the new 2022 Civic hatchback.

The popularity of sedans such as the Jetta might have tumbled as buyers flock to big SUVs and even bigger pickups, but there's still plenty to like about VW's family car.

The base 1.5-litre gas engine's 158 horsepower is plenty for a front-drive family car, and can be paired with either manual or automatic transmission. And for those who get a kick from driving, there's the sportier Jetta GLI with retuned suspension and a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine pumping out 228 horsepower.

All 2023 Jettas feature a pleasant if not very exciting interior design. To make it as smart as possible, we recommend going for SEL trim or above to get VW's upgraded 10.25-inch digital dials and an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.0L 158 hp I4
1.5L 158 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
158 hp @ 6500 rpm
MPG City
30
31
MPG Highway
38
41
Look and feel
2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
9/10
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
7/10

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback aimed to capitalize on the declining popularity of hatchbacks in the U.S. market. With several automakers discontinuing their hatchback models, Honda saw an opportunity to capture a significant share of the remaining market. The redesigned Civic hatchback, produced in Indiana, was one of the few compact cars still made in the U.S. It was also expected to serve as the foundation for the revived 2023 Acura Integra, potentially sparking a hatchback renaissance. The Civic hatchback was available in LX, Sport, EX-L, and Sport Touring trims, with prices ranging from $22,900 to $29,400, plus a $1,015 destination charge. The Sport Touring trim, which was tested, featured a CVT and a six-speed manual transmission, with prices around $30,415 and $30,810, respectively.

The new Civic hatchback shared its front-end design with the Civic sedan but had a unique grille pattern and wheel designs. From the front doors to the rear, it was a different vehicle. While Honda attempted to address the visual weight distribution issue common in small hatchbacks, the Civic hatchback still suffered from a "stubby butt" appearance. Inside, the Civic hatchback's Sport Touring trim offered sophisticated digital instrumentation and infotainment displays, along with high-quality controls and metal honeycomb dashboard detailing. However, the CVT shifter operation detracted slightly from the overall sense of sophistication.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta, while affordable, faced competition from alternatives offering more utility or style within its price range. Volkswagen offered the Jetta in S, Sport, SE, SEL, and GLI trims, with prices ranging from $20,665 to $31,585, excluding a $1,095 destination charge. The GLI was a sport-tuned model with added power and driving dynamics, but this review focused on the standard Jetta. The test car was a Jetta SEL in Platinum Gray Metallic paint with a Volcano Brown over Titan Black interior, priced at $29,480 with the destination charge.

The Jetta's conservative design aimed for timeless appeal, but the current generation lacked the symmetry and balance of previous models. While the Jetta's appearance was inoffensive, it didn't stand out. The SEL trim's interior channeled the VW Group's Audi luxury brand, featuring ambient lighting, genuine leather upholstery, a power sunroof, and larger digital instrumentation and infotainment screens. The Jetta SEL's interior felt upscale and offered good value for its price.

Performance
2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
8/10
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
7/10

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback offered two engine options. The LX and Sport trims featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque. The LX came with a CVT, while the Sport offered a choice between the CVT and a six-speed manual transmission. The EX-L and Sport Touring trims had a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, available with either a CVT or a six-speed manual transmission. The Civic hatchback was front-wheel drive, with no all-wheel-drive option. The Sport and Sport Touring trims had 18-inch aluminum wheels with 235/40 Continental all-season tires, while the LX had 16-inch wheels, and the EX-L had 17-inch wheels.

The CVT worked well with the turbocharged engine, providing smooth and quiet operation. Paddle shifters on the Sport and Sport Touring models added a more traditional transmission feel. The six-speed manual transmission in the Sport Touring trim was praised for its short throws, fluid gear engagement, and excellent clutch modulation. The turbocharged engine provided quick and effortless acceleration, while the suspension offered a balance between firmness and comfort. However, the all-season tires and brakes were not ideal for aggressive driving on winding roads. The Civic hatchback delivered good fuel economy, with the CVT achieving 33 mpg in combined driving and the manual transmission averaging 31 mpg.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The S and Sport trims came with a six-speed manual transmission, while the SE and SEL had an eight-speed automatic transmission, which was optional for the S and Sport trims. The Jetta was front-wheel drive, with no all-wheel-drive option. The automatic transmission had a Sport mode and a manual shifting mode, but there was a noticeable delay in acceleration, which could be irritating. The manual transmission likely provided better control over this behavior.

The Jetta SEL's fuel economy was rated at 33 mpg in combined driving, but real-world testing averaged 30 mpg. Despite the powertrain's quirks, the Jetta SEL offered a rewarding driving experience with accurate steering, faithful brakes, and predictable handling. The all-season tires provided good grip and communication about the road surface.

Form and function
2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
8/10
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
8/10

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback excelled in functionality, with a trunk measuring 24.5 cubic feet and a two-piece cargo shade that didn't need to be removed for loading. The back seat had a 60/40-split folding design, though the load floor wasn't flat. All seating positions were comfortable, but the front passenger seat lacked a height adjuster, and there were no rear air conditioning vents. The driver enjoyed an eight-way power-adjustable seat, and both front seats were heated. The Civic hatchback offered black fabric seats in LX and Sport trims, while the EX-L and Sport Touring had black leather upholstery. Automatic climate control was standard, with a dual-zone system in the EX-L and Sport Touring trims.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta was spacious, accommodating four adults comfortably and a fifth passenger for short trips. The interior storage space was generous, and the trunk offered 14.1 cubic feet of cargo space, nearly as much as some midsize sedans. The Jetta SEL featured an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel. The front passenger seat lacked a height adjuster, but the Jetta's higher seating position made entry and exit easier. The back seat had large doors and a tall, supportive seat cushion, with plenty of legroom and heated rear seats. However, rear air conditioning vents were absent.

The Jetta had ample storage options, including a large bin under the center armrest, a sizable glove compartment, and storage areas in the door panels. The trunk's shape and size made it easy to load luggage, and the 60/40-split folding back seat allowed for carrying longer items.

Technology
2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
8/10
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
7/10

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback featured a new infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, physical power/volume and tuning knobs, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in LX, Sport, and EX-L trims. The Sport Touring trim added a 9-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, navigation, and a 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint 2 surround-sound audio system. The inclusion of physical knobs addressed previous criticisms of Honda's infotainment systems. The voice recognition system worked well, and digital instrumentation was standard, with a 10.2-inch display panel in the Sport Touring trim.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SEL had a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrumentation panel and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with proximity sensing, knobs for volume and menu functions, and shortcut tiles. The infotainment system allowed for vehicle settings configuration, phone calls, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L premium satellite radio. However, the tuning process required more inputs than expected, and the voice recognition system was limited without Car-Net connected service upgrades. Car-Net provided access to a Wi-Fi hotspot and several remote and safety features for five years. The Jetta SEL's Beats Audio premium sound system was not particularly satisfying.

Safety
2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
9/10
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
7/10

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback came with the Honda Sensing suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, Road Departure Mitigation, and Lane Keeping Assist. New features included low-speed following capability and Traffic Jam Assist, available only with the CVT. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning were available in EX-L and Sport Touring trims. The Sport Touring with CVT also had Low-Speed Braking Control. All Civics had a rear-seat reminder system, rear seatbelt reminder, automatic high-beam headlights, new frontal-impact airbags, and Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) for better crash energy absorption. The Civic hatchback earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SE and SEL came with the IQ.Drive package, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, Travel Assist, and Emergency Assist. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, working well on winding roads. Emergency Assist could identify an unresponsive driver and brake the car to a safe stop. The Jetta received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA but earned four stars for frontal-impact protection. The IIHS rated the Jetta's safety as Poor in a new moderate overlap frontal-impact crash test and was unimpressed with the car's headlights.

Cost Effectiveness
2022 Honda Civic Hatchback
4/10
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
5/10
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