Jetta vs. Passat: A Volkswagen Comparison
Volkswagen's Jetta and Passat sedans offer customers an affordable and reliable alternative. Find out more about the differences between the Jetta and Passat.
Read time
9 minutes
Date
02.08.2024
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Key takeaways
- The Volkswagen Jetta and Passat cater to different preferences, with the Jetta offering greater fuel efficiency and manual transmission options, whereas the Passat is known for its more powerful engine and spacious interior.
- Interior features vary between models, with the Passat featuring more luxurious options and the Jetta offering modern tech and safety features.
- Choosing between them depends on personal preference for size, features, and whether looking for a new (Jetta) or used (Passat) vehicle.
The Volkswagen Passat predates the Jetta platform by seven years but recently passed the torch after nearly half a century in production. Although the Jetta and Jetta GLI midsize sedans bring the competition, many point to the upcoming electrified ID.7 as the next generation of Volkswagen sedans. Still, Volkswagen occupies a key spot among affordable family sedans, and the Jetta and Passat nameplates are no exception.
If you’re having difficulty choosing between the Volkswagen Jetta and Passat, a FINN car subscription offers the flexibility to pick your poison and sample some time behind the wheel without a long-term commitment. Your FINN subscription fee includes insurance, registration, depreciation, and maintenance. Plus, FINN delivers to your door for the ultimate convenient transportation solution.
What’s the difference between the Volkswagen Jetta vs. Passat?
Unfortunately, Volkswagen discontinued the Passat model in 2022. Indeed, it commemorated the last year with a Limited Edition trim. However, the Volkswagen Jetta model continues strong. Check out the differences between these two models in the table below:
Volkswagen Jetta | Volkswagen Passat |
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Keep reading to dig further into the main differences between these Volkswagen sedans, from their price and size to engine, fuel efficiency ratings, and safety features.
Jetta vs. Passat price
The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta’s original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) was $28,570. Up $2,000 from the base SE model was the R-Line. The Limited Edition model, exclusive to the 2022 model year, cost $31,570.
In contrast, the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta has a starting price of $21,435 for the base S model. Sport variants cost $22,585, while SE models tip the scales at $24,875. The top-of-the-line SEL is $28,825.
Jetta vs. Passat size
The VW Passat and Jetta both seat up to five passengers. These two-row sedans offer similar wheelbases, although the Jetta is shorter at 105.7 inches versus the Passat’s 110.4 inches. The Passat is also longer, at 193.6 inches, compared to the Jetta’s 186.5 inches. The Passat is 72.6 inches wide and 58.7 inches tall, slightly larger than the Jetta’s 70.8 inches of width and 57.7 inches of height.
Jetta vs. Passat interior features
The 2024 Jetta includes several modern interior features, from an eco-leather steering wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, and leather shift knob in the S trim to the heated front seats in the Sport variant. Cooled seats, a panoramic sunroof, and driver seat memory are optional, depending on your chosen trim. You can also order the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta with a 10-color ambient lighting function.
Alternatively, the 2022 Passat included several standard features on all trim levels:
- Push-button start
- Keyless entry
- Heated front seats
- Simulated leather seats
- Power sunroof
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Automatic LED headlights
- A leather steering wheel
- A self-dimming rearview mirror
The Limited Edition model featured heated front and rear seats and a Fender audio system. The 2022 Passat offered 39.1 inches of rear legroom and 15.9 cubic feet of trunk space. Comparatively, the 2024 Jetta’s legroom measures 37.4 inches, and its cargo capacity maxes out at 14.1 cubic feet.
Jetta vs. Passat exterior and towing capacity
From a distance, the Volkswagen Jetta and Passat look incredibly similar. The body lines follow a striking pattern extending from the headlights to the taillights. Volkswagen has updated some of the badging and grille work since the days of the Passat, but the two models share a modern look.
The Jetta and Passat aren’t necessarily known for their towing abilities. However, the Passat can handle a higher payload than the Jetta. The Passat’s payload capacity tops out at 948 pounds, while the Jetta can only handle 926 pounds.
Jetta vs. Passat engine and fuel economy
The 2022 Passat had a more powerful engine than the 2024 Jetta. However, the Jetta offers an eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission, which is unheard of in more sedate platforms. The Passat harnessed 174 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque within the block of a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2024 Jetta features a 1.5-liter turbo engine with 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
To its credit, the 2022 Passat holds its own among higher-performing 2024 Jetta variants regarding fuel-efficiency ratings. The 2022 Passat achieved 24 city and 36 highway miles-per-gallon (MPG) for 28 combined MPG. Base automatic Jetta S models achieve 30 city and 41 highway MPG, while Sport, SE, and SEL models lose a point in the city and on the highway. Manual transmission Jettas achieve 29 city and 42 highway MPG.
Should you lease and then buy a car? Can you get a car loan without a job? These are questions to ask before leasing a car, but the following are common questions surrounding the differences between the Volkswagen Jetta and Passat.
Do the Passat and Jetta have the same engine?
The Volkswagen Passat and Jetta don’t share the same engine. The 2022 Passat featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 174 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission was the only option available, compared to a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission on the 2024 Jetta. The Jetta also has a smaller 1.5-liter engine, similarly turbocharged.
Is the Jetta a reliable car?
The Jetta is more or less reliable. According to RepairPal, the Jetta ranks 21st out of 36 compact cars, with a four-out-of-five-star reliability rating. Annual repairs average $609. The Jetta visits the shop an average of 0.3 times annually, with a 10% chance of a severe repair.
Which has more interior space, the Jetta or the Passat?
The 2022 Passat offered more interior space than the 2024 Jetta. The Passat was longer, wider, and taller, with more cargo capacity and rear legroom available. If you visit a VW dealership for a test drive, you can also test out the cargo space of both models.
What is the fuel efficiency of the Volkswagen Passat compared to the Jetta?
The 2022 Volkswagen Passat doesn’t measure up to the 2024 VW Jetta in fuel efficiency. However, the two are relatively close, considering the difference in engine displacements. The 2022 Passat achieved 24 city and 36 highway MPG for 28 combined MPG, while the 2024 Jetta achieved 6 MPG more in the city and on the highway in its most fuel-efficient form.
Jetta vs. Passat technology and safety features
The difference of two years feels like 20 when you consider the safety features standard on the 2022 Passat and 2024 Jetta. The 2022 Passat’s safety features included:
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection
- Lane-keeping assistance
- Adaptive cruise control
R-Line and Limited Edition models featured adaptive headlights. The Limited Edition model also had a steering assistance function when parking and front and rear parking sensors. Technological features included Bluetooth, a 6.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and hands-free trunk opening.
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
Technology features on the 2024 Jetta include the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, complete with a 10-inch display and a half-dozen customizable profiles. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available via the Volkswagen Car-Net system. A BeatsAudio system is optional, along with wireless charging, remote start, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
The NHTSA and IIHS had good things to say about both VW models. The 2022 Passat earned a four-out-of-five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and “Good” ratings in all categories from the IIHS. The 2024 Jetta received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA but stumbled slightly with the IIHS tests. The model received “Good” ratings in most categories, but did poorly in the “Moderate overlap front: updated test” and average in the “Side: updated test.”
Who is a Volkswagen Jetta for?
A Volkswagen Jetta is an excellent choice for families looking to spend less on a sedan without making any sacrifices. The Jetta and Jetta GLI models cater to multiple audiences and offer modern technology, safety features, and fuel-efficiency ratings. The 2024 VW Jetta is also available in a six-speed manual, delighting enthusiasts who prefer to shift at their own speed.
Who is a Volkswagen Passat for?
If you’re not worried about how to choose between a hybrid versus an electric vehicle, the Volkswagen Passat makes an excellent used car choice. While you’ll have a hard time finding any Limited Edition models, used Passats make a great commuter or first car for new drivers. The Passat is also larger, longer, and broader than the Jetta, which can mean much as a grocery-getter.
Which is better: Volkswagen Jetta or Volkswagen Passat?
On a basic level, choosing between the Volkswagen Jetta and Passat is simple if you’re looking for a new cars versus used cars. The Passat is no longer available for sale, but it’s an appropriate choice for growing families or those with an eye on their budget. Then again, the Jetta offers a manual transmission, updated tech and safety features, and the confidence of driving a more modern vehicle. The ultimate decision rests on your personal preference.
With a FINN car subscription, you don’t have to choose between these two capable Volkswagen models. Subscribe to FINN, and you can drive the VW Jetta and Passat for six months up to two years. FINN offers a monthly payment that includes insurance, registration, depreciation, and maintenance. You can also choose from flexible terms to fit your lifestyle.
Which is better: Volkswagen Jetta or Volkswagen Passat?
On a basic level, choosing between the Volkswagen Jetta and Passat is simple if you’re looking for a new cars versus used cars. The Passat is no longer available for sale, but it’s an appropriate choice for growing families or those with an eye on their budget. Then again, the Jetta offers a manual transmission, updated tech and safety features, and the confidence of driving a more modern vehicle. The ultimate decision rests on your personal preference.
With a FINN car subscription, you don’t have to choose between these two capable Volkswagen models. Subscribe to FINN, and you can drive the VW Jetta and Passat for six months up to two years. FINN offers a monthly payment that includes insurance, registration, depreciation, and maintenance. You can also choose from flexible terms to fit your lifestyle.
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