2020 Toyota Corolla vs 2021 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, with its redesigned exterior, was not considered particularly attractive, often compared to a menacing alien. However, when equipped with the SE or XSE trim and the Celestite paint colour, it presented a more appealing look. The interior quality saw significant improvements, with soft-touch surfaces replacing the previously cheap plastics. Despite these enhancements, the Corolla's economy car roots were evident in the transmission shifter's lack of solidity. The base model started at $18,990, with the XSE trim reaching $28,490 before fees.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta offered a more upscale presence with its longer and wider dimensions. The design featured a dramatic, wide grille inspired by the VW Arteon, which some found excessive for a compact sedan. Inside, the Jetta maintained a spacious and functional cabin with a blend of soft-touch surfaces and comfortable seating. The base Comfortline trim was well-equipped, including features like 16-inch alloy wheels and a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Car-Net App-Connect. The Highline and Execline trims added more luxury features, such as leatherette seating and a digital instrument cluster.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla offered a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine with 139 horsepower for the L, LE, and XLE trims, paired with a CVT. The SE and XSE trims featured a more powerful 169-horsepower, 2.0-litre engine, and a sophisticated CVT with paddle shifters. The XSE trim provided a sporty driving experience with a smooth ride, thanks to its independent rear suspension. However, the lack of a turbocharger limited its acceleration capabilities. Fuel efficiency was rated at 7.7 L/100 km in the city and 6.1 on the highway, with a combined rating of 7.0 L/100 km.

The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta came with a 1.4-litre turbo inline four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The 8-speed automatic transmission improved power delivery and efficiency. A 6-speed manual was available for the Comfortline and Highline trims. The Jetta excelled in both city and highway driving, with well-weighted steering and minimal body roll. Fuel consumption was efficient, with the manual transmission rated at 6.9 L/100 km combined and the automatic at 7.1 L/100 km.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla, while smaller than a Camry, provided adequate space for a family of four. However, the lack of rear air-conditioning vents and USB ports, along with the low seating position, were drawbacks. The 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat was comfortable, and the climate control system was effective. The trunk offered 371 litres of space, accommodating several bags and a compact stroller.

The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta's front seats were praised for comfort on long trips, with adequate rear-seat legroom and headroom. The trunk provided 399 litres of space. The interior layout was practical, with a well-placed touchscreen and a larger centre tray. The combination of touchscreen functions with real buttons and dials enhanced usability.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla featured the Entune 3.0 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay but lacked Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with a high-mounted touchscreen and familiar controls. Higher trims offered an 8-inch display and additional features like HD Radio and SiriusXM.

The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Car-Net App-Connect, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard. The Execline trim featured Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit, a customizable digital display. This setup allowed drivers to use navigation apps without needing a top-tier trim.

The 2020 Toyota Corolla came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including features like low-light pedestrian detection and Lane Tracing Assist. The NHTSA awarded it a 5-star rating, and the IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick for 2019. Blind-spot monitoring was standard on all but the base trims.

The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta offered a comprehensive safety suite, with features like automatic post-collision braking and blind-spot monitoring standard on higher trims. The Execline added advanced driver-assistance systems. The IIHS rated it Good in crash tests, but its headlights prevented a Top Safety Pick designation. The NHTSA gave it a five-star rating.