Toyota Corolla Hatchback vs. Volkswagen Jetta

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Toyota Corolla Hatchback and Volkswagen Jetta contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Toyota Corolla Hatchback and the Volkswagen Jetta.

When comparing the Toyota Corolla Hatchback's and the Volkswagen Jetta's specifications and ratings, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback has the advantage in the areas of fuel efficiency, resale value, interior volume and base engine power. The Volkswagen Jetta has the advantage in the areas of new vehicle base pricing and typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars. Based on this comparison of the Toyota Corolla Hatchback's and the Volkswagen Jetta's specifications and ratings, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback is a better car than the Volkswagen Jetta.

Pricing: A used 2024 Toyota Corolla Hatchback ranges from $23,927 to $29,432 while a used 2024 Volkswagen Jetta is priced between $21,495 to $29,945. For a new model, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback's price is between $24,534 and $29,657, with the Volkswagen Jetta priced between $23,088 and $30,451.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback loses 28 percent of its value and the Volkswagen Jetta loses 36 percent of its value. This means the Toyota Corolla Hatchback retains 8 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Volkswagen Jetta.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback’s base engine makes 169 horsepower, and the Volkswagen Jetta base engine makes 158 horsepower. The Corolla Hatchback is rated to deliver an average of 35 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 541 miles. The Jetta is rated to deliver an average of 34 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 554 miles.This gives the Toyota Corolla Hatchback the advantage in fuel efficiency and the Volkswagen Jetta the advantage in maximum range. Both models use regular unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: While both models are compact cars, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front leg room, rear head room, rear shoulder room, and cargo space. The Volkswagen Jetta has the advantage in the areas of front head room, front shoulder room and rear leg room.

Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, both the Toyota Corolla Hatchback and the Volkswagen Jetta have the same average safety rating of 5 out of 5 Stars. When comparing IIHS evaluations, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback has the advantage with a Top Safety Pick award.