It’s the age-old question, should you buy a Jetta or Passat. At Cherry Hill Volkswagen, we put together this comprehensive 2021 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2021 Volkswagen Passat evaluation to help you decide. Our Jetta vs. Passat review examines the pricing, performance and features of both sedans.
The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta S MSRP is $18,995 and there are five trims to choose from. If you prefer the 2021 Volkswagen Passat S trim, you are looking at a base price of $23,995 with three trims to choose from.
The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta includes a 147-horsepower 1.4-liter turbocharged motor with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. In comparison, the new Passat includes a 174-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four and six-speed automatic transmission.
Either transmission helps the Jetta return 30/40 mpg, while the 2021 Volkswagen Passat is rated at 24/36 mpg.
Both Volkswagen sedans have space for five occupants. However, there is slightly more room in the Passat because it is a larger model. With the 2021 Jetta models, you have 94.7 cubic feet of passenger volume, compared to the 102 cubic feet of space in the new Passat. Plus, the Jetta has a 14.1 cubic foot trunk, while the Passat contains a 15.9 cubic foot trunk, but both offer a 60/40-split rear seat for longer items.
Both models contain a lot of standard equipment. For example, the Jetta comes standard with Bluetooth, a 6.5-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hot spot, a four-speaker sound system and two USB ports. In comparison, all Passat models include HD Radio, a 6.5-inch touch screen, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, one USB port, a six-speaker sound system and Bluetooth. However, there are tons of other options available, such as a premium stereo system, a navigation system, wireless device charging and more.
The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta dimensions measure 185″ L x 71″ W x 57″ H, with the option of 16-, 17- or 18-inch wheels and seven exterior paint colors. The 2021 Volkswagen Passat dimensions measure 194″ L x 72″ W x 58″ H with 17-, 18- or 19-inch wheels and six exterior paints.
Not only did the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta receive a perfect five-star rating from the NHTSA, but it scored “Good” in all IIHS crashworthiness tests. Additionally, the 2021 Volkswagen Passat has not been evaluated by the NHTSA but also earned a “Good” rating in all IIHS crashworthiness tests.
Both Volkswagen sedans contain safety equipment that protects your family. For example, the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta comes standard with a rearview camera, while the Passat models include forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, rear cross traffic alert, pedestrian detection and blind spot monitoring with that rear view camera. Consider adding some additional safety equipment, such as lane keep assist, rain-sensing windshield wipers and high-beam assist.
If you are looking for a smaller sedan at a budget-friendly price, the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta is going to be your top choice. However, if you need a little more room or want updated features, the 2021 Volkswagen Passat might suit you better. We suggest you compare them side by side to see all of the differences. You can browse our online inventory from home and check out the latest Volkswagen lease deals or financing offers. Schedule your test drive at Cherry Hill Volkswagen today.