Volkswagen Jetta vs Cadillac CT5

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 retained its blend of appealing aesthetics and driving comfort, characteristics that have been part of its identity since its introduction in 2020. Over the years, it gained power and cutting-edge technology, although it still lacked the sophistication of some competitors and had a small trunk. The refreshed lineup offered various trims, with our test car being a Premium Luxury variant, featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine and all-wheel drive. The CT5's new design included vertically stacked headlights and a bold front fascia, while the interior boasted a 33-inch display and upscale climate control icons. Despite some inexpensive materials, the cabin's luxury was enhanced by carbon fibre trim and Sedona Sauvage leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta underwent significant styling improvements, addressing previous design issues with new front and rear styling, wheel designs, and paint colours. The interior received upgrades with nicer materials and a redesigned dashboard, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen and dual-zone climate control. The Jetta offered Trendline, Comfortline, and Highline trims, with the Highline boasting leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and digital instrumentation. Despite some plastic elements, the Jetta's interior was comfortable and practical, although the touch-sensitive climate controls were frustrating. Overall, the Jetta's styling changes and interior enhancements made it a more appealing and premium compact sedan.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered a choice between a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 237 horsepower and a more powerful twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 335 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as an option. The V6 engine provided ample power for highway driving and city manoeuvres, although it came at a cost to fuel economy, averaging 12.6 L/100 km during testing. The CT5's platform, shared with the Chevrolet Camaro, ensured a lively drive, although the Premium Luxury trim felt softer compared to sportier variants.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta retained its turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission sent power to the front wheels, with no all-wheel drive option. The Jetta's fuel economy was rated at 7.4 L/100 km, but testing in hot conditions resulted in an average of 8.9 L/100 km. The Sport driving mode improved the driving experience by reducing turbo lag, while the sport-tuned suspension and larger wheels enhanced handling on twisty roads. Despite its firmer suspension, the Jetta remained a comfortable commuter, achieving 7.4 L/100 km on the highway.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered a comfortable road-tripping experience, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. However, the front seats lacked side bolsters, and the cabin was noisier than expected. Rear-seat passengers had good legroom but limited headroom, and the CT5's cargo space was tight at 337 litres, with an uneven trunk floor. Interior storage was adequate, with a wireless smartphone charger conveniently located.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta provided ample space for a compact sedan, with comfortable front and rear seats and a 399-litre trunk. The Highline trim featured leather seats, power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated and ventilated front seats. The dual-zone climate control system effectively managed extreme temperatures, although the touch-sensitive controls were distracting. The Jetta's interior was practical and comfortable, despite the frustrating climate control panel.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 featured a new 33-inch panoramic display with three screens, including a trip computer panel, digital instrumentation, and a wide infotainment touchscreen with Google Built-in technology. The system offered Google Assistant, Google Maps, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The CT5's technology was user-friendly, with multiple interaction methods, and included a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and Teen Driver technology.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and digital instrumentation panel, with the Highline trim offering a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro display. Standard features included Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless versions available on higher trims. The infotainment system's user experience was hindered by a proximity-sensing menu and changing knob functions. Voice recognition required a subscription, and wireless Apple CarPlay experienced connectivity issues during testing.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 was equipped with a comprehensive set of driving assistance systems, including a surround-view camera system and active blind-spot monitoring. The standout feature was Super Cruise, offering hands-free driving on approved roads. The CT5 performed well in crash tests, earning top five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta featured IQ.Drive, a suite of driver assistance systems, including active collision avoidance and Emergency Assist. The Jetta's safety features worked with precision, although Lane Assist occasionally issued unnecessary warnings. The Jetta received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, but the IIHS rated it lower in some crash tests.