2013 Volkswagen Jetta vs. Its Competition

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan 4-door Auto S Front Exterior View

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Our expert editors build comparisons like this one to make it easy for you to understand the small handful of cars you should compare to whatever car you are already looking at. You get general thoughts on each car you should consider plus an easy way to compare basic information for yourself.

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May 1, 2013

The latest Jetta outsizes most of its competition and earns better fuel economy in some models, while it misses out on some key new features when compared with other compacts like the Ford Focus, our 2012 Best Car To Buy.

The Focus is entertaining to drive, a bit small inside, but laden with all sorts of features that advance its safety and entertainment without cutting into its zest for the road.

The Hyundai Elantra is another award-winning compact with great value and space, with less a reputation for handling than for great fuel economy in all versions--and now, with coupe and five-door GT models.

The Chevy Cruze also has a high-economy model, clean and elegant looks, and a refined drivetrain, while the new Dodge Dart plays up more racy looks and big interior room over ultimate refinement.

The Kia Forte soldiers on with value and body styles while it awaits a 2014 makeover, but it's still a well-priced offering that's unfortunately a cut below even the Elantra in handling.

2013 Volkswagen Jetta	2013 Chevrolet Cruze Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Dodge Dart Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Ford Focus Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Hyundai Elantra Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Kia Forte Get FREE Price Quote
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7.6 The Jetta draws drivers looking for a taut driving feel and delivers superior interior space; we'd pass on the low-cost base models, and aim for the standout TDI and GLI editions.	8 The 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is one of the smartest picks for anyone wanting practicality, comfort, and safety in a compact sedan—although it's missing the fun-to-drive edge of some other models.	8.2 Remember the Neon? The 2013 Dodge Dart brings some of the same passion back to Chrysler's compact-car lineup, with a 41-mpg version yet to come.	8.8 Whether or not you consider the exciting new ST performance model, the 2013 Ford Focus lineup is evidence that small cars don't have to feel so appliance-like.	8.4 Civic who? Corolla what? The Hyundai Elantra's one of the new standard bearers in the compact class, with 38-mpg fuel economy, better safety, and class-leading standard features.	7.4 It's a family affair: the Kia Forte lineup is more comfortable, more eager, and better finished than ever, and a step up from what its sticker price might suggest.
MSRP From
N/A	$17,130	$15,995	$16,200	$16,695	$15,400
Gas Mileage
	22 MPG City / 42 MPG Hwy	25 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy	23 MPG City / 38 MPG Hwy	28 MPG City / 38 MPG Hwy	22 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy
Engine
N/A	Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4	Gas I4
EPA Class
N/A	Midsize Cars	Compact	Compact	Midsize cars	Compact Cars
Style Name
N/A	4dr Sedan Man LS	4dr Sedan SE	4dr Sedan S	4dr Sedan Man GLS (Ulsan Plant) Ltd Avail	4dr Sedan Man LX
Drivetrain
N/A	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity
N/A	5	5	5	5	5
Passenger Doors
N/A	4	4	N/A	4	N/A
Body Style
N/A	Sedan	Sedan	Sedan	Sedan	4 Door Sedan
Transmission
N/A	Manual	Manual	Manual	Manual	Manual