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2017 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2017 Volkswagen Golf

Sometimes, the biggest competition for your attention isn’t just between different brands, but within the same lineup. Volkswagen offers a variety of options that are efficient and attractive, but the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2017 Volkswagen Golf are particularly competitive because they are both affordable and have great reputations. Deciding isn’t easy, but when you consider some of the key differences it’s easier to define your own needs and which one best meets them.

The 2017 Volkswagen Jetta is the entry into the VW lineup, which means that inexpensive trim options exist to make it somewhat more affordable than the base trim of the Golf. One thing to take note of, however, is that the base engine for the Jetta isn’t as powerful as the 1.8T found in the Golf. Those seeking to match the power figures of the Golf would have to jump all the way up to the SEL trim for the Jetta, which would be more expensive, but also include many more luxury features.

View Golf Inventory

$19,895

2017 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2017 Volkswagen Golf

$17,895

 28 city/40 hwy
28 city/40 hwy MPG 25 city/36 hwy
94.1 cu. ft. Interior 93.5 cu. ft.
15.7 cu. ft. Cargo 22.8 cu. ft.
1.4-liter 4-cylinder; 150hp, 184 lb-ft Base Engine 1.8-Liter 4-cylinder; 170hp, 199 lb-ft

Why pick the 2017 Jetta vs Golf?

When it comes right down to it, choosing between these two compact models comes down to a variety of factors. The Jetta comes in many more trims than the Golf, offering up four trims compared to two for the Golf. It also offers three engine options, the 1.4T, the 1.8T and the 2.0T, with the latter found in the sporty Jetta GLI. The Golf comes with just two trims, though savvy shoppers know it’s part of an entire family of models that also include the SportWagen, GTI and Golf R.

Keeping things to the basics, you might opt for the Jetta if you’re looking for a small and efficient option with a low starting price. Moving up trims means gaining impressive available features for less many than you’d have to invest in a Golf for the same options.

On the other hand, the 2017 Volkswagen Golf earns high praise because its balance of fuel economy and power is hard to beat for its segment. It remains affordable, while still displaying a peppy driving style that’s fun and practical. Then, of course, there’s the fact that driving a hatchback is frequently more convenient than driving a sedan because it starts off with plenty of cargo space, but when you fold the rear seats back you open up the entire rear for bulkier purchases. Need a new big screen TV? What might not fit in your Jetta most likely will transport easily in a Golf.

Which model is best for you ultimately comes down to your budget, which features you’re looking for and how much space you need. Then, of course, there’s the driving style. Find out which one feels better when you stop by Compass Volkswagen and take a test drive. We’ll let you perform your own comparison for yourself.