The world of compact sedans offers a wide range of choices to pick from. Notable among the long list are the famous Toyota Corolla and the Volkswagen Jetta. In 2025, these sedans have been equipped with advanced features to enhance driver experience. You will eventually compare the Volkswagen Jetta and Toyota Corolla if you are looking for a stylish, efficient sedan to improve your driving experience. While both models have dynamic performance, high-end comfort, and exceptional fuel efficiency, one may outperform the other in some ways.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2025 Jetta features a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed manual is now exclusively available in the Jetta GLI, while the eight-speed automatic handles gear swaps regardless of trim. The updated model drives similarly to before, with a chassis tuned for quieter, more comfortable rides.
Meanwhile, the Corolla comes with a 169-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a continuously variable automatic transmission, and a hybrid powertrain. The sedan and hatchback have a pleasant ride quality, with controlled body motions and better agility than previous models. The SE and XSE have stiffer sport-tuned suspension and larger 18-inch wheels, respectively. However, the Corolla’s progressive steering is satisfactory but not exemplary compared to competitors like the Mazda 3 and Honda Civic. The Corolla’s brake pedals are dependable and respond naturally to inputs, but not impressive in a 70-mph-to-zero braking test.
Fuel economy
The 2025 Jetta model maintains its efficiency, with the base S with automatic achieving 31 mpg city and 41 mpg highway, while the Sport, SE, and SEL trims have slightly lower ratings due to equipment differences. Previous Jetta models with automatic exceeded EPA Highway estimates in a 75-mph fuel-economy route, returning an impressive 42 mpg.
The Corolla sedan offers a hybrid model with an EPA estimated fuel efficiency of 53 mpg city and 46 mpg highway. The all-wheel drive model is rated for 51 mpg city and 44 mpg highway. The nonhybrid 169-hp 2.0-liter engine can earn up to 41 mpg highway. The all-wheel-drive hybrid achieved 40 mpg on a 75-mph fuel-economy route, while the gas-only Corolla XSE sedan with front-wheel drive achieved 41 mpg. The hatchback is rated up to 32 mpg city and 42 mpg.
Interior and cargo
When choosing between the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta and the 2025 Toyota Corolla, your cargo space and passenger room are frequently decisive variables. One of the key benefits of owning a stylish, little automobile is being able to comfortably stretch out during a commute.
The Jetta offers ample front passenger head, shoulder, and legroom, as well as a spacious rear passenger compartment. The interior design is contemporary and features increase with higher trims, but all cabins cater to the driver and offer excellent visibility. The base S model has cloth upholstery, adjustable seats, door pockets, and a deep console bin. The most expensive models have features like ambient interior lighting, wireless device charging, and ventilated front seats. The Jetta holds seven bags out of sight in its trunk, three extra bags with the back seats folded, making it a great choice for those seeking more cargo space.
The Corolla hatchback and sedan share a streamlined dashboard with soft-touch materials, and most models have passive entry and push-button start. Some models can be upgraded with ambient interior lighting, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats. The sedan offers more legroom behind the front seats, while the hatchback has 18 cubic feet of cargo space. The Enhanced Cargo Space option expands this area by 6 cubic feet. The sedan has 13 cubes of trunk volume, but can only fit eight bags. Both body styles have inferior interior cubby storage compared to more spacious rivals.
Verdict
Whether it is the fuel efficiency, the interior, or the performance that concerns you. If the fuel economy and driving performance is your priority, the Corolla is your best bet. The space the Jetta has makes it the best choice if your priority is enough space and comfort. Either way, both cars are very well-rounded, but your choice will largely depend on where your priorities lie.
