Volkswagen Jetta GLI vs. Volkswagen Passat

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Volkswagen Jetta GLI and Volkswagen Passat 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 Jetta GLI and the Volkswagen Passat.

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

Pricing: A used 2022 Volkswagen Jetta GLI ranges from $24,975 to $30,990 while a used 2022 Volkswagen Passat is priced between $17,888 to $26,226.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI loses 36.2 percent of its value and the Volkswagen Passat loses 43.1 percent of its value. This means the Volkswagen Jetta GLI retains 6.8 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Volkswagen Passat.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI’s base engine makes 228 horsepower, and the Volkswagen Passat base engine makes 174 horsepower. The Jetta GLI is rated to deliver an average of 30 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 488 miles. The Passat is rated to deliver an average of 28 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 666 miles.This gives the Volkswagen Jetta GLI the advantage in fuel efficiency and the Volkswagen Passat the advantage in maximum range. Both models use regular unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: The Volkswagen Passat, a midsize car, has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front shoulder room, front leg room, rear head room, rear shoulder room, rear leg room, and cargo space. The Volkswagen Jetta GLI, a compact car, has the advantage in the area of front head room.

Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI has higher safety ratings than the Volkswagen Passat, with an average rating of 5 out of 5 Stars compared to 4.86 out of 5 Stars.