Volkswagen Golf R vs. Volkswagen Jetta

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Volkswagen Golf R 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 Volkswagen Golf R and the Volkswagen Jetta.

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

Pricing: A used 2025 Volkswagen Golf R ranges from $49,999 to $54,806 while a used 2025 Volkswagen Jetta is priced between $19,997 to $27,587. For a new model, the Volkswagen Golf R's price is between $49,189 and $54,972, with the Volkswagen Jetta priced between $22,865 and $30,186.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Volkswagen Golf R loses 40.8 percent of its value and the Volkswagen Jetta loses 40.2 percent of its value. This means the Volkswagen Jetta retains 0.5 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Volkswagen Golf R.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Volkswagen Golf R’s base engine makes 328 horsepower, and the Volkswagen Jetta base engine makes 158 horsepower. The Golf R is rated to deliver an average of 25 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 450 miles. The Jetta is rated to deliver an average of 33 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 499 miles. This gives the Volkswagen Jetta the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the Volkswagen Golf R. The Golf R uses premium unleaded, and the Jetta uses regular unleaded.

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

Safety Ratings: The Volkswagen Jetta has an average safety rating of 5 out of 5 Stars based on NHTSA's crash test ratings.