2016 Volkswagen Jetta vs Honda Accord Comparison

Powertrain and Performance

Most compact or mid-size sedans offer two different engines, the smaller of which promises good gas mileage while the other offers better acceleration. The 2016 Volkswagen Jetta comes in a standard base trim with either a peppy 1.4L, 4-cylinder engine or a hybrid version that combines this engine with an electric motor.

Buyers can also choose a larger, 1.8L engine that delivers a total of 170 horsepower. For those who really want the comfort of good acceleration and smooth cruising, an available 2.0L engine with 210 horsepower is offered on the Jetta GLI 2.0T. The Accord, meanwhile offers only a base trim with a 4- cylinder, 185-horsepower engine or a larger V6 that compromises on the fuel efficiency.

Interior Features

Compact or mid-size vehicles are basically split into two categories, economy and semi-luxury. The 2016 Volkswagen Jetta offers the best of both. Although this model is affordably priced, buyers get plenty of convenience features, even on the base trim.

Standard features include a composition color touchscreen sound system, multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, and Bluetooth® with audio streaming. If one of the up-level trims is chosen, add-ons include a rearview camera, leatherette seating surfaces, the Car-Net App-Connect, and the exciting Discover Media touchscreen navigation.

Compare this with the base trim 2016 Honda Accord, which comes with a rather confusing dual-screen infotainment system, an 8-inch iMID® display, and dual-zone climate control. Buyers will pay more for the features on the Honda Accord LX base trim than for the Jetta mid-level trims in order to get basically the same amenities.

Fuel Efficiency

The smallish 1.4L engine found on the base trim Jetta actually performs well during acceleration. Buyers can expect about 39 mpg on the highway. If the larger 1.8L engine is chosen - on the Sport trim - the fuel efficiency is still good, about 37 mpg highway. The hybrid version boasts a remarkable 48 mpg on the highway, better than average for a hybrid sedan.

The 2016 Honda Accord gets around 36 mpg on the highway for the base trim with its 4-cylinder engine, while the larger, more powerful V6 can only promise 35 mpg highway driving. Again, buying the Accord means shelling out more dollars in order to get slightly poorer fuel mileage. Of course, one can expect some of the standard convenience features to be a little more advanced on the Honda, but if fuel consumption is really important, the Accord cannot compete with the less expensive Jetta.