2022 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2023 Chrysler 300

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta received a subtle makeover, featuring an updated engine, minor exterior styling tweaks, and enhanced infotainment options. The Jetta Highline trim, in particular, showcased these changes with a more aggressive profile, thanks to its redesigned front fascia and grille adorned with chrome accents. The exterior updates were so understated that they required a keen eye to notice, yet they contributed to a slightly more dynamic appearance. Inside, the Jetta's interior updates were equally subtle but effective, with new upholstery patterns and contrast stitching adding a touch of sophistication. The Highline trim offered a two-tone leather interior option, and the standard 8-inch Digital Cockpit instrument cluster provided a modern touch to the driving experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler 300 maintained its classic and bold design, reminiscent of its Bentley-inspired origins. Despite its age, the 300's styling remained appealing, with blacked-out appearances and large 20-inch wheels adding a touch of modernity. The 300C trim, in particular, stood out with its exclusive V8 engine and performance enhancements. However, the interior quality did not quite match the exterior's promise of luxury. While the 300C featured premium materials like carbon-fibre trim and Laguna leather upholstery, the overall interior design felt dated. The rear seats were less accommodating, and storage space was limited, reflecting the car's age and lack of modern conveniences.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta was powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine replaced the previous 1.4-litre turbo-four, offering a slight increase in horsepower. The Jetta was available with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 8-speed automatic, both paired with front-wheel drive. The Jetta's performance was adequate for city commuting, with impressive fuel economy figures of 8.0 L/100 km city and 5.5 highway for the manual, and 7.7 L/100 km city and 5.7 highway for the automatic. However, the powertrain exhibited some turbo lag and surge, and the driving dynamics were not particularly engaging. The Jetta offered various drive modes, but the overall experience was somewhat lacklustre, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

The 2023 Chrysler 300C, on the other hand, boasted a powerful 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, delivering 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing a thrilling driving experience with a 0-100 km/h time of approximately 4.5 seconds. The 300C featured an adaptive damping suspension, performance-oriented Brembo brakes, and performance tires, enhancing its handling capabilities. However, the powerful engine came at the cost of fuel economy, with an official rating of 13.1 L/100 km combined. The 300C's driving modes allowed for customization, but the car's age showed in its handling dynamics, reminiscent of older German sedans.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta, despite its compact size, offered ample passenger space for four adults, with the option to accommodate a fifth. The seats were comfortable, though the front seat cushions had a slight incline that might not suit everyone. The cabin was driver-centric, with well-placed controls for climate, audio, and driving-related functions. Storage space was practical, with various compartments for stowing items, although the centre storage bin lacked a latch. Overall, the Jetta's interior was functional and user-friendly.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler 300, while technically a full-size car, felt spacious only in the front seats. The 300C's front seats offered power adjustments, premium leather, and heating and ventilation, but the rear seats were less accommodating, with limited legroom and a slouched seating position. Storage space was lacking, with no dedicated smartphone slot or wireless charging. The trunk, however, offered a generous 461-litre cargo area. The 300's interior design showed its age, with limited modern conveniences and storage options.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta featured an upgraded technology suite, with the Digital Cockpit digital instrument cluster standard across all models. The Highline trim boasted a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro with customizable views and widgets. The infotainment system included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration, Bluetooth, and USB-C ports. The Jetta Highline also offered premium Beats Audio and a remote start system, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2023 Chrysler 300, on the other hand, was equipped with the previous-generation Uconnect infotainment system, featuring an 8.4-inch touchscreen. While the system offered basic functionality, it showed its age with dated graphics and limited connectivity options. The 300C included SiriusXM, navigation, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. However, the lack of a surround-view camera and modern tech features highlighted the car's aging design.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta came with standard forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian recognition. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Jetta received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA but fell short of a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS due to an Acceptable side crash test rating and Marginal to Poor headlight performance.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler 300 offered limited standard safety features, with most advanced systems available only as options. The SafetyTec Plus Group included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and other features, but was not available on the base Touring trim in Canada. The 300's adaptive cruise control was less sophisticated, and the car's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a Marginal rating in the IIHS moderate-overlap frontal-impact test.