2023 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra presented a diverse lineup catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Starting with the affordable base Elantra SE, it offered a cost-effective entry point, while the SEL and Limited trims provided more upscale options. The Elantra Hybrid variants, with their impressive fuel efficiency of up to 54 mpg, maintained the same sleek design as the standard models, marked only by a subtle "Hybrid" badge. For driving enthusiasts, the turbocharged Elantra N Line and the high-performance Elantra N, with its 276 horsepower, delivered thrilling experiences. Despite its polarizing exterior design, the Elantra's interior, especially in the Limited trim, impressed with its stylish Melange with Gray theme, ambient lighting, and high-tech displays, though it fell short with hard plastic door panels.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta, while affordable, faced competition from more versatile and stylish alternatives within its price range. Available in S, Sport, SE, SEL, and GLI trims, the Jetta's pricing spanned from $20,665 to $31,585, excluding destination charges. Our test vehicle, a Jetta SEL, featured a Platinum Gray Metallic exterior and a Volcano Brown over Titan Black interior. The Jetta's conservative design, though inoffensive, lacked the elegance of its predecessors. Inside, the SEL trim channeled a touch of luxury with ambient lighting, genuine leather upholstery, and a spacious feel. However, the Jetta's interior, while functional, didn't quite match the Elantra's flair.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Limited, with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, didn't promise thrilling performance on paper. However, its driving dynamics exceeded expectations. The Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) and front-wheel drive setup, combined with a torsion-beam rear axle, delivered a surprisingly peppy and efficient ride, achieving 33 mpg during testing. While not as sporty as the Elantra N Line or N, the Limited trim offered a balanced and composed driving experience, with a communicative ride, well-calibrated brakes, and stable handling, even on challenging roads.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta, powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, generated 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This provided zippy acceleration and nimble handling, especially in urban settings. The Jetta offered a choice between a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the latter featuring a Sport mode. However, the automatic transmission exhibited a noticeable delay in response, affecting the driving experience. Despite this, the Jetta's accurate steering, reliable brakes, and predictable handling instilled confidence on mountain roads. The P205/55R17 Nexen Nfera AU7 tires further enhanced its performance, providing excellent grip and communication.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra excelled in practicality and utility, offering ample space for a family of four. The Limited model featured a comfortable six-way power driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats. However, rear-seat passengers faced a slouched seating position, and the absence of rear air conditioning vents and USB ports was a drawback. The Elantra's trunk, with 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, accommodated full-size suitcases, and the 60/40-split folding back seat added versatility.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta, straddling the compact and midsize sedan segments, provided generous interior space for four adults, with the option to fit a fifth passenger for short trips. The SEL trim included an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. While the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment, the Jetta's higher seating position facilitated easy entry and exit. The back seat offered ample legroom and comfort, though rear air conditioning vents were absent. The Jetta's trunk, with 14.1 cubic feet of cargo space, was nearly as spacious as some midsize sedans, and the 60/40-split folding back seat enhanced its utility.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra impressed with its 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment displays, available in the SEL Convenience package and standard in the N Line trim. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and more, though wireless connectivity was limited to Bluetooth. While the voice recognition system performed well in most tests, it struggled with certain commands. The Elantra Limited featured a Bose premium audio system, but its sound quality fell short compared to rivals. Digital Key technology and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert added convenience and safety.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SEL featured a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrumentation panel and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and more. However, the infotainment system's interface required multiple inputs for simple tasks, and the voice recognition system was basic unless upgraded with Car-Net connected services. Car-Net provided valuable features like SOS emergency calling and remote engine starting. The SEL trim included a Beats Audio premium sound system, but it didn't match the quality of previous Fender systems.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Elantra Limited added cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Highway Driving Assist. The driving aids performed smoothly and reliably during testing, instilling confidence in the driver. The Elantra received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars for frontal crash protection.

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SE and SEL came equipped with IQ.Drive, a package of advanced driving assistance systems. Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist, worked impressively on challenging roads. Emergency Assist, a rare feature in this segment, could safely stop the car if the driver became unresponsive. The Jetta received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA but earned four stars for frontal-impact protection. The IIHS rated its safety as Poor in a new moderate overlap frontal-impact crash test.