Audi A4 vs Volkswagen Jetta

The 2022 Audi A4 was a model of understated elegance, offering a range of options from the A4 sedan to the performance-tuned S4. Our test vehicle, a Prestige 45 TFSI, was nearly as expensive as an A4 could get without stepping up to the S4. It featured Tango Red paint, the Black Optic Plus package, and 19-inch wheels, with an MSRP of $55,890. The A4's design was simple and conservative, yet the Tango Red paint and Black Optic detailing elevated its appearance to something sensational. Inside, the A4 maintained a restrained aesthetic with high-quality materials and a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit. However, the tablet-style touchscreen seemed like an afterthought in an otherwise cohesive design.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SEL, priced at $29,480, was dressed in Platinum Gray Metallic paint with a Volcano Brown over Titan Black interior. While the Jetta's appearance was bland compared to its predecessors, it was visually inoffensive and aimed for a conservative look that would age gracefully. Inside, the Jetta SEL channeled a touch of luxury with ambient lighting, genuine leather upholstery, and a large sunroof. The interior felt upscale, offering emotional value at a reasonable price, though the design lacked the flair of its competitors.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered two engine options: the 40 TFSI with 201 horsepower and the 45 TFSI with 261 horsepower. Our test car, the 45 TFSI, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro Ultra AWD. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds and achieved 27 mpg in combined driving. The A4's driving experience was joyful, with refined engine performance, outstanding tire grip, and a quiet cabin. The Quattro Ultra system provided efficient power distribution, enhancing the car's dynamic capabilities.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SEL was powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering a Sport mode and manual shifting. The Jetta's driving experience was characterized by zippy acceleration and nimble handling, though the automatic transmission exhibited a delay in response. The Jetta SEL averaged 30 mpg in combined driving, slightly below its EPA rating of 33 mpg. Despite its quirks, the Jetta delivered a rewarding drive with accurate steering and predictable handling.

The 2022 Audi A4's low stance made entry and exit challenging, but once inside, it offered exceptional comfort in the front seats and adequate comfort in the rear. The A4 featured a three-zone automatic climate control system and intuitive controls. However, interior storage was limited, with a small center console bin and a 13 cubic-foot trunk. The trunk was well-finished, with enclosed hinges and storage nets for added convenience.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SEL provided ample space for four adults, with generous interior storage and a cavernous trunk offering 14.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The Jetta's eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats ensured comfort, though the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The rear seats were spacious, with heated cushions and padded front seatbacks. The Jetta's trunk was easy to load, accommodating full-size suitcases and longer items with its 60/40-split folding back seat.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured the MIB3 version of Audi's Multi-Media Interface, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Audi Connect services. The test car included a navigation system, wireless charging, and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. The MMI was intuitive, with separate climate controls and useful voice recognition technology.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SEL came with a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and Car-Net connected services. However, the infotainment system required multiple inputs for tuning and lacked advanced voice recognition. The Jetta SEL featured a Beats Audio premium sound system, though it was less satisfying than previous Fender systems.

The 2022 Audi A4 Prestige was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Audi Pre Sense, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The A4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The driver assistance tech was effective, though the adaptive cruise control occasionally required manual intervention.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SEL featured IQ.Drive, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and Emergency Assist. The Jetta's driver-assistance suite performed well, though it occasionally issued inaccurate warnings. Emergency Assist was a standout feature, offering added safety in medical emergencies. The Jetta received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA but earned lower ratings for frontal-impact protection and headlights from the IIHS.