Jan 26, 2022
2021 Volkswagen Jetta Vs. 2021 Hyundai Elantra

2021 Volkswagen Jetta Vs. 2021 Hyundai Elantra

The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta and 2021 Hyundai Elantra offer plenty of passenger space and a variety of engine options from economical to sporty. The Jetta offers European sophistication and luxury along with a spacious cabin and excellent driving dynamics. In comparison, the Elantra offers everything from hybrid to track-specifically tuned variants. Here’s a closer look at the two, across different parameters:

  1. Fuel Economy– The 2021 Jetta proves to be the less frugal of the two sedans, offering a combined fuel economy of 34 MPG. Buyers can expect the 2021 Elantra to deliver a combined figure of 37 MPG.
  2. Warranty– Hyundai scores better than Volkswagen (VW) in terms of both standard and powertrain warranties. Here are the figures for the two cars:
VehicleStandard WarrantyPowertrain Warranty
2021 VW Jetta4 years or 50,000 miles5 years or 60,000 miles
2021 Hyundai Elantra4 years or 50,000 miles10 years or 100,000 miles
  • Cargo Space– There’s virtually nothing to choose between available cargo volumes for the two sedans. While the Jetta offers 14.1 cubic feet, the Elantra is marginally better at 14.2 cubic feet.
  • Updates for 2021– The Jetta was updated for 2019, but there weren’t many changes after that. Their trim levels have been updated a bit, with the S getting new 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels and the SE getting a 6-way driver’s seat and contrasting stitching on the steering wheel and shifter. The MIB3 infotainment system is now standard on the SEL trim, while adaptive cruise control is now available on the GLI Autobahn. Compared to before, 2021 sees a completely new design of the Hyundai Elantra. The Elantra just keeps getting better as time goes by, offering strong standard equipment and a range of engines to choose from, all at a fair price. The N-Line with its 4-cylinder turbo is at the top of the range. Some improvements were also made in the interior.
  • Trim Levels– Buyers will be able to choose from the following five trim levels of the 2021 VW Jetta:
  • SE
  • S
  • SEL
  • SEL Premium
  • R-Line

Relatively speaking, the 2021 Hyundai Elantra has lesser options, in terms of four trims- SEL, SE, N-Line, and Limited.

  • Engine Options– The 2021 Jetta is available with a single engine and the 2021 Elantra offers two. Expect a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine producing 147 hp and 132 lbs.-ft of torque here, mated to either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. There is one other engine available for GLI models, which is a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 228 hp and 258 lbs.-ft of torque. Customers can choose either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission). Overall, the Jetta is very sophisticated and a lot of fun to drive. A hybrid option is also available for the 2021 Elantra.
  • Interiors– Although the VW Jetta is a compact sedan, it offers plenty of space inside. The seats are very comfortable and high quality materials have been used. Elantra’s sloping roofline doesn’t restrict rear-seat headroom; The vehicle’s facelift has increased leg and shoulder room in the rear seats.