2021 Toyota Corolla vs 2021 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in its SE and XSE trims, presented a more attractive design than its predecessors. Sporting features like sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, and 18-inch aluminum wheels, the Corolla aimed to appeal to those seeking a sportier look. The Celestite metallic paint added a unique blue undertone, enhancing its visual appeal. However, some design elements, such as the hood shut line and the over-styled rear bumper, detracted from its overall aesthetic. The Corolla offered a range of trims, including the L, LE, and XLE, for those preferring a more understated appearance. The Corolla Hybrid provided an economical option with the same powertrain as the Prius. Pricing for the Corolla ranged from $19,350 to $30,771 CAD, depending on the trim and options.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta featured a longer and wider body than its predecessor, giving it a more upscale presence. The wide, angular grille, inspired by the VW Arteon, added a dramatic flair to its design. Inside, the Jetta continued the angular design language, creating a cohesive look. The cabin was spacious and functional, with comfortable seats suitable for long drives. The Jetta's trim levels included Comfortline, Highline, and Execline, each offering a range of features. The base Comfortline trim was well-equipped, showcasing VW's confidence in the model. The Jetta's design and layout emphasized practicality, with a blend of touchscreen functions and physical controls, making it user-friendly.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE models were equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a Dynamic Shift CVT, paddle shifters, and a Sport driving mode. The XSE's CVT was noted for its smooth operation, using a mechanical first gear to eliminate typical CVT drawbacks. The Corolla's TNGA platform contributed to its low centre of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics. Despite its modest power, the Corolla XSE offered predictable handling and was engaging enough for spirited driving. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with an average of 7.6 L/100 km in mixed driving conditions.

The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta featured a 1.4-litre turbo inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 147 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Despite having slightly less power than its predecessor, the engine felt more responsive, thanks to its tuning and the new 8-speed automatic transmission. The Jetta's transmission allowed for efficient power delivery across various speeds. A 6-speed manual transmission was also available on select trims. The Jetta excelled in both city and highway driving, with well-weighted steering and minimal body roll. Its ride quality was refined, offering a smooth experience over rough roads. Fuel efficiency was impressive, with the manual transmission achieving 6.9 L/100 km and the automatic 7.1 L/100 km.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE offered several interior upgrades over the SE trim, including SofTex leatherette seats, heated rear seats, and an eight-way power driver's seat. These features enhanced comfort and provided a commanding driving position. The rear seats offered good support, though headroom and legroom were somewhat limited. The Corolla's trunk provided 371 litres of cargo space, which was average for the class.

The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta's interior was spacious and comfortable, with front seats that were supportive even on long trips. Rear-seat legroom and headroom were adequate, and the trunk offered 399 litres of cargo space. The Jetta's layout emphasized practicality, with a well-placed touchscreen and a larger centre tray. The combination of touchscreen functions and physical controls made the Jetta user-friendly and functional.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla came standard with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth. The SE trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen, while the XSE added Service Connect and Safety Connect. Remote Connect was free for a year, offering features like remote engine start and vehicle finder. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy navigation.

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 that could project navigation information. This feature added a premium touch to the Jetta's technology offerings.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Corolla also added rear side-impact airbags and a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert. The 2020 model received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta offered a range of safety features, including front and side airbags, a reversing camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Highline trim added blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, while the Execline included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Jetta received a Good rating in IIHS crash tests but did not earn a Top Safety Pick due to its headlights. The NHTSA awarded the Jetta a 5-star safety rating.