2019 volkswagen jetta vs hyundai elantra: the battle for sedan dominance

The compact sedan segment is filled with capable and competitive options, and the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta and Hyundai Elantra stand out as two of the most compelling choices. With their sleek designs, advanced features, and efficient powertrains, these vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, practicality, and value. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of each vehicle to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Exterior Design:

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta and Hyundai Elantra both sport modern and eye-catching designs. The Jetta features a sharp and angular exterior with a prominent grille, sleek LED headlights, and a sloping roofline that gives it a sporty stance. The Elantra, on the other hand, has a more fluid and sculpted design with a cascading grille, dynamic curves, and a panoramic sunroof that adds a touch of elegance.

Interior Space and Comfort:

When it comes to interior space, both the Jetta and Elantra offer ample room for passengers and cargo. The Jetta has a slightly larger cabin with generous legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. The Elantra, however, has a more spacious trunk with 14.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity compared to the Jetta’s 14.1 cubic feet.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy:

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta comes standard with a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that produces 147 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Hyundai Elantra offers a choice between a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, or a more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. In terms of fuel economy, the Jetta has a slight edge with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 30 mpg city and 41 mpg highway, while the Elantra with the base engine gets up to 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway.

Technology and Features:

Both the Jetta and Elantra come well-equipped with a range of advanced technology and convenience features. The Jetta features a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a variety of driver-assistance systems such as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The Elantra offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen with similar smartphone integration, along with a more comprehensive suite of safety features including lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control.

Safety Ratings and Reliability:

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta and Hyundai Elantra have both received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Jetta earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS, while the Elantra received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from IIHS. In terms of reliability, both vehicles have comparable track records with J.D. Power and Associates awarding the Jetta a score of 83 out of 100 in its 2019 Vehicle Dependability Study and the Elantra a score of 82 out of 100.

Price and Value:

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta has a starting price of $18,545, while the Hyundai Elantra starts at a slightly lower $17,900. As you move up the trim levels, both vehicles offer a range of additional features and options, with the top-of-the-line Jetta SEL Premium costing around $27,000 and the Elantra Limited coming in at just under $26,000. Ultimately, the best value for your money will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

The Verdict:

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta and Hyundai Elantra are both excellent choices in the compact sedan segment. The Jetta offers a more spacious cabin, better fuel economy, and a slightly more upscale interior. However, the Elantra has a more powerful turbocharged engine option, a more comprehensive suite of safety features, and a slightly lower starting price. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual priorities and budget.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Which vehicle offers the most advanced safety features?
A: The Hyundai Elantra offers a more comprehensive suite of safety features including lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control.

Q: Which vehicle has the best fuel economy?
A: The Volkswagen Jetta has a slight edge in fuel economy with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 30 mpg city and 41 mpg highway.

Q: Which vehicle is more spacious?
A: The Volkswagen Jetta has a slightly larger cabin with more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats.

Q: Which vehicle has the lower starting price?
A: The Hyundai Elantra has a slightly lower starting price of $17,900 compared to the Jetta’s $18,545.

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine option?
A: The Hyundai Elantra offers a more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.