Volkswagen Jetta vs Toyota Camry

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta underwent a significant transformation, addressing previous design criticisms with new front and rear styling, revised wheel designs, and fresh paint colors like Monterey Blue Pearl. These changes enhanced the car's visual appeal, giving it a more premium appearance despite the excessive rear overhang. Inside, the Jetta received an upgrade with improved materials and a redesigned dashboard. Standard features included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and dual-zone automatic climate control, though the latter's touch-sensitive controls were frustrating. The Jetta was available in S, Sport, SE, and SEL trims, with prices ranging from $21,995 to $29,000, excluding destination charges. The SEL trim offered leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and upgraded digital instrumentation, making it a more comfortable and stylish choice.

The 2026 Toyota Camry, available in LE, SE, Nightshade Edition, XLE, and XSE trims, featured prices from $30,595 to $36,995, including destination charges. Our test vehicle, the Nightshade Edition, sported Supersonic Red paint and included several packages, bringing the MSRP to $36,478. The Camry retained its lineage from the 2018 model, evident in its proportions and design. The Nightshade Edition stood out with satin black 19-inch wheels and gloss-black detailing. Inside, it mirrored the Camry SE with a black interior, SofTex artificial leather upholstery, and stylish fabric accents. While the Camry's interior had some inexpensive plastic, it was less noticeable, creating a more pleasant environment.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta retained its turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque at 1,750 rpm. An eight-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with no all-wheel drive option. The Jetta's EPA fuel economy rating was 33 mpg combined, though our testing averaged 31.8 mpg in hot conditions. The Sport driving mode improved the driving experience by reducing turbo lag, while the lowered, sport-tuned suspension enhanced handling. The Jetta SEL's 18-inch wheels and firmer suspension made it enjoyable on winding roads, though it wasn't as sporty as the GLI. Despite the firmer settings, the Jetta remained a comfortable commuter, achieving up to 38 mpg on the highway.

The 2026 Toyota Camry transitioned to a hybrid-only powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors for 225 horsepower in front-wheel-drive models and 232 hp in all-wheel-drive versions. Fuel economy ranged from 43 to 51 mpg, depending on the trim and drivetrain. Our FWD Nightshade test car averaged 44.5 mpg on a mixed driving loop. The Camry's TNGA platform contributed to a balanced ride and handling, though it didn't match the Honda Accord Hybrid's communication and sophistication. The hybrid system's eCVT transmission was less satisfying than a traditional automatic, but the Camry's performance was commendable, especially on challenging roads.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta offered a roomy interior with comfortable front and rear seats and a 14.1 cubic-foot trunk. The SEL trim featured leather seats, power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated and ventilated front seats. The dual-zone automatic climate control system and ventilated seats effectively managed extreme temperatures, though the touch-sensitive controls were cumbersome. The Jetta's interior was practical and comfortable, but the new climate control panel detracted from its usability.

The 2026 Toyota Camry provided comfortable front seats with power height adjustment and SofTex artificial leather upholstery. The back seat offered adequate legroom and support, though it wasn't as spacious as the Honda Accord's. The Nightshade Edition included rear air-conditioning vents, USB ports, and a center armrest with cupholders. Storage space was limited in the back, but the front offered ample storage options. The Camry's trunk measured 15.1 cubic feet, smaller than some competitors, and lacked a grab handle for the lid.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8-inch digital instrumentation panel. The SEL trim offered a 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro display. The Jetta SE and above included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and wireless smartphone charging. The infotainment system's user experience was hindered by proximity-sensing menus and inconsistent knob functions. Voice recognition required a subscription, and Apple CarPlay connectivity issues arose during testing.

The 2026 Toyota Camry's Nightshade Edition came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The Multimedia Upgrade Package added a 12.3-inch touchscreen and Drive Connect subscription with cloud-based navigation and voice recognition. The Intelligent Assistant performed well, though it occasionally struggled with the wake phrase. The Camry lacked a radio tuning knob, but drivers could use virtual buttons, steering wheel controls, or voice commands. Several connected services plans were available, with Safety Connect offering essential safety features.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta came equipped with IQ.Drive, a suite of driver assistance systems and safety features. Notable features included active collision avoidance with blind-spot monitoring and Emergency Assist, which could bring the car to a safe stop if the driver became unresponsive. The Jetta received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, but the IIHS rated it "Acceptable" in the updated side crash test.

The 2026 Toyota Camry featured Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Predictive Driving Assist monitored following distances and helped avoid obstacles. A stopping assist system engaged during testing, slowing the car if the driver became unresponsive. The Camry received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.