2023 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI presented a familiar yet subtly refreshed design, with its longer and lower body maintaining the same wheelbase as its predecessor. This eighth-generation model retained the classic GTI styling, featuring a smooth hood and a subtle honeycomb-patterned air intake. The signature red accent line extended between the LED headlights, with an optional light bar adding drama to the front end. Aerodynamic enhancements included redesigned side-view mirrors and underbody paneling. The GTI came with red brake calipers and wheel sizes varying by trim, with the Autobahn trim offering 19-inch wheels. Color options included staple shades like silver, black, and white, with fun additions like Atlantic Blue Metallic and Kings Red Metallic. Inside, the GTI offered plaid cloth seats as standard, with leather upholstery available on higher trims, and retained the classic golf-ball shifter knob for manual transmission models.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta, while affordable, faced competition from more stylish and utility-focused alternatives. The Jetta was available in multiple trims, with prices ranging from $20,665 to $31,585, excluding destination charges. The Jetta's design was conservative, lacking the symmetry and balance of previous generations, though it remained visually inoffensive. The SEL trim offered an upscale feel with ambient lighting, leather upholstery, and a large sunroof. The interior featured a spacious cabin with a focus on comfort, though the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The Jetta's trunk was generous, providing ample cargo space, and the car's design allowed for easy entry and exit.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This power was delivered to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The GTI's fuel economy was estimated at 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with the manual transmission, slightly improving with the automatic. The GTI's handling was enhanced by a retuned suspension, with a lighter front assembly and stiffer rear springs. Various drive modes allowed for customization, and the electronic torque-sensing limited-slip differential improved cornering. The Autobahn trim featured adaptive dampers for even better handling.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta, equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, delivered 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The Jetta offered a six-speed manual transmission for S and Sport trims, while the SE and SEL trims came with an eight-speed automatic. The automatic transmission had a noticeable delay in response, but the manual mode and Sport mode helped mitigate this issue. The Jetta's fuel economy was rated at 33 mpg combined, though real-world testing showed slightly lower results. Despite its modest power, the Jetta provided a nimble and comfortable driving experience, with accurate steering and reliable brakes. The SEL trim's all-season tires performed well, offering good grip and communication.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI balanced performance and practicality, offering 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 34.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. The driver-centric interior featured a center stack angled toward the driver and a unique "light and sight" panel for adjusting headlights and defogging settings. Rear legroom was surprisingly generous, making the GTI suitable for family use.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta provided ample space for a family of four, with a roomy interior and a large trunk offering 14.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The SEL trim included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Jetta's design allowed for easy entry and exit, and the rear seats offered good legroom and comfort. Interior storage was plentiful, with various compartments and a wireless smartphone charger in the SEL trim.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured a 10.25-inch digital driver information display with customizable gauge layouts and ambient lighting profiles. The infotainment system included an 8.25-inch touchscreen in the S trim and a 10-inch screen with navigation in higher trims. Standard features included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Car-Net system offered remote access and additional features for a fee, such as navigation updates and natural language controls.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SEL came with a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrumentation panel and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system included proximity-sensing, stereo volume knobs, and shortcut tiles for easy navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM 360L premium satellite radio. The Car-Net system provided a Wi-Fi hotspot and complimentary access to remote and safety features for five years, with additional services available for a fee. The SEL trim featured a Beats Audio premium sound system, though it was not as satisfying as previous Fender systems.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI offered advanced driver assistance systems through the IQ.Drive package, including Travel Assist, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, these features were only available on automatic models. Park Distance Control was standard on all trims, with the Autobahn trim offering Park Assist. The GTI had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SE and SEL included the IQ.Drive package, featuring Travel Assist and Emergency Assist. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist, while Emergency Assist could identify an unresponsive driver and bring the car to a safe stop. The Jetta received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA but had lower ratings for frontal-impact protection. The IIHS rated the Jetta's safety as Poor in a new frontal-impact crash test.