Compare Volkswagen Passat vs Jetta Comparison
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Volkswagen Passat Vs Jetta - Head-to-Head
 Feature     Volkswagen Jetta  Volkswagen Passat  Size     Smaller footprint and size  larger dimensions  Wheelbase  105.7 inches  110.4 inches  Length  186.5 inches  193.6 inches  Width  70.8 inches  72.6 inches  Height  57.7 inches  58.7 inches  Interior Features  Modern interior features  Standard features like push-button start and keyless entry  Cargo Capacity     14.1 cubic feet  15.9 cubic feet  Rear Legroom  37.4 inches  39.1 inches  Engine  1.5-liter turbo engine with 158 horsepower     2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 174 horsepower  Transmission  Eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual  Six-speed automatic  Fuel Efficiency  Up to 30 city and 41 highway MPG  Up to 24 city and 36 highway MPG  Safety Features  Rear Traffic Alert, Active Blind Spot Monitor Blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control  Technology Features  Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, Apple CarPlay  Bluetooth, infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, hands-free trunk opening  Price Range     See Price  See Price
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What's the difference between the Volkswagen Jetta vs. Passat?
The Volkswagen Passat predates the Jetta by seven years, but recently passed a half century of production. While the Jetta and Jetta GLI midsize sedans remain competitive, many look to the upcoming electrified ID.7 as the next generation of Volkswagen sedans. Despite this shift, Volkswagen maintains a strong presence in the affordable family sedan market, with the Jetta and Passat being prime examples.
If you're having difficulty choosing between the Volkswagen Jetta and Passat, you will find this Volkswagen Jetta vs Passat comparison helpful.
Unfortunately, Volkswagen discontinued the Passat model in 2022, commemorating its final year with a Limited Edition trim. However, the Volkswagen Jetta continues to thrive.
Before delving deeper into Volkswagen Jetta vs Volkswagen Passat comparison, here's a brief overlook
Volkswagen Jetta vs Volkswagen Passat specs & Highlights
Volkswagen Jetta
Smaller footprint and size
Higher fuel efficiency ratings
Available six-speed manual transmission
Smaller engine size
Available cooled seats
Higher safety ratings from the NHTSA
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Volkswagen Passat
No all-wheel drive option
2022 was the last model year
Higher payload capacity
More horsepower and torque
Greater cargo capacity and rear passenger legroom
Higher safety ratings from the IIHS
Jetta vs. Passat size
The Volkswagen Passat and Jetta both seat up to five passengers. Both two-row sedans offer similar wheelbases, though the Jetta's is shorter at 105.7 inches, compared to the Passat's 110.4 inches. The Passat is also longer, measuring 193.6 inches in length, while the Jetta measures 186.5 inches. Additionally, the Passat is 72.6 inches wide and 58.7 inches tall, making it slightly larger than the Jetta, which is 70.8 inches wide and 57.7 inches tall.
Jetta vs. Passat interior features
The 2024 Jetta boasts several modern interior features. The S trim includes an eco-leather steering wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, and leather shift knob. The Sport variant adds heated front seats. Depending on the trim, optional features include cooled seats, a panoramic sunroof, and driver seat memory. Additionally, the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta offers a 10-color ambient lighting function.
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In contrast, the 2022 Passat came with several standard features across all trim levels, including:
Push-button start
Keyless entry
Heated front seats
Simulated leather seats
Power sunroof
Rain-sensing wipers
Automatic LED headlights
Leather steering wheel
elf-dimming rearview mirror
The Limited Edition model added heated front and rear seats and a Fender audio system. The 2022 Passat provided 39.1 inches of rear legroom and 15.9 cubic feet of trunk space. In comparison, the 2024 Jetta offers 37.4 inches of rear legroom and a maximum cargo capacity of 14.1 cubic feet.
Jetta vs. Passat exterior and towing capacity
From a distance, the VW Jetta and Passat appear quite similar, with body lines that create a striking pattern from the headlights to the taillights. While Volkswagen has updated the badging and grill work since the Passat's days, both models share a modern aesthetic.
Neither the Jetta nor the Passat are particularly renowned for their towing capabilities. However, the Passat has a higher payload capacity, handling up to 948 pounds compared to the Jetta's 926 pounds.
Jetta vs. Passat engine and fuel economy
The 2022 VW Passat boasts a more powerful engine compared to the 2024 VW Jetta. However, the Jetta offers an eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission, which is rare. The Passat features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 174 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. In comparison, the 2024 Jetta has a 1.5-liter turbo engine with 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
Despite the performance difference, the 2022 Passat holds its own against the higher-performing 2024 Jetta variants in terms of fuel efficiency. The 2022 Passat achieved 24 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway, with a combined rating of 28 MPG. The base automatic Jetta S models achieve 30 city and 41 highway MPG, while the Sport, SE, and SEL trims drop slightly to 29 city and 40 highway MPG. Manual transmission Jettas achieve 29 city and 42 highway MPG.
Jetta vs. Passat technology and safety features
The difference of two years feels like 20 when considering the standard safety features on the 2022 Passat compared to the 2024 Jetta. The 2022 Passat came equipped with:
Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection
Lane-keeping assistance
Adaptive cruise control
Additionally, the R-Line and Limited Edition models included adaptive headlights. The Limited Edition model also offered steering assistance for parking and front and rear parking sensors. Technological features included Bluetooth, a 6.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a hands-free trunk opening.
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Volkswagen fits the 2024 Jetta with several additional safety systems, including:
Rear Traffic Alert
Active Blind Spot Monitor
Front Assist
Adaptive Cruise Control
Lane Assist
Rear View Camera System
Safety Cage
Emergency Assist
Intelligent Crash Response System
Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
Travel Assist
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The 2024 Jetta comes equipped with advanced technology features such as the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, featuring a 10-inch display and six customizable profiles. Connectivity options include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through the Volkswagen Car-Net system. Optional features include a BeatsAudio system, wireless charging, remote start, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Both VW models received positive feedback from safety authorities. The 2022 Passat achieved a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings across all categories from the IIHS. On the other hand, the 2024 Jetta received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA but faced challenges in IIHS tests, particularly in the "Moderate overlap front: updated test" and scored an average in the "Side: updated test" category.
Jetta vs. Passat price
The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta had an original Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $28,570. The R-Line, priced $2,000 higher than the base SE model, was also available. The Limited Edition model, exclusive to the 2022 model year, cost $31,570.
On the other hand, the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta has a starting price of $21,435 for the base S model. Sport variants are priced at $22,585, while SE models are $24,875. Lastly, the top-of-the-line SEL model costs $28,825.
Who is a Volkswagen Jetta for?
The Volkswagen Jetta is a compelling option for families seeking affordability in a sedan without compromising on quality. Both the Jetta and Jetta GLI models cater to diverse audiences by offering modern technology, advanced safety features, and impressive fuel efficiency. Additionally, the 2024 VW Jetta is available with a six-speed manual transmission, catering to enthusiasts who prefer manual shifting.
Who is a Volkswagen Passat for?
For those unconcerned with choosing between hybrid and electric vehicles, the Volkswagen Passat emerges as a top choice among used cars. While Limited Edition models may be scarce, pre-owned Passat serve as excellent commuter vehicles or first cars for new drivers. The Passat's larger dimensions compared to the Jetta make it a practical option for grocery runs and daily errands.