Are you shopping around for a compact car? Two solid choices are from Mazda and Volkswagen, with the Mazda3 and VW Jetta. See how they stack up in this 2022 Mazda3 vs. 2022 VW Jetta comparison.

2022 Mazda3 vs. 2022 VW Jetta

In this 2022 Mazda3 vs. 2022 VW Jetta comparison, we evaluated several areas. This includes performance, efficiency, safety, passenger and cargo space, interior features and technologies, warranty coverage, reliability, and price. The Jetta is available in only a sedan model, while the Mazda3 offers sedan and hatchback versions. We note the differences when applicable.

Mazda3 vs. Jetta: Performance and efficiency

On the performance front, the 2022 Mazda3 outmuscles the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta. It offers three engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (155 hp), a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (186 hp), and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (250 hp). In comparison, the Jetta offers only a 158-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine.

Buyers of the Mazda3 have a choice of either a front-wheel drive system or a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system. However, the Jetta only offers a front-wheel drive system.

For efficiency, the Mazda3 has the advantage. It has an estimated fuel economy of up to 31 city/41 highway mpg, while the Jetta has a gas mileage of up to 28 city/36 highway mpg.

Mazda3 vs. Jetta: Safety

The Mazda3 is a safer car than the Jetta. Unlike the Jetta, the Mazda3 earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.

Mazda3 vs. Jetta: Passenger and cargo space

The Jetta is slightly bigger than the Mazda3, resulting in more passenger space. It has a total passenger volume of 94.7 cu-ft, compared to 92.8 cu-ft for the Mazda3 Sedan and 92.7 cu-ft for the Mazda3 Hatchback. 

For storage space, Jetta has a trunk cargo capacity of 14.1 cu-ft, compared to 13.2 cu-ft for the Mazda3 Sedan. However, the Mazda3 Hatchback has a maximum cargo capacity of 20.1 cu-ft.

Mazda3 vs. Jetta: Interior features and technologies

The Mazda3 and Jetta offer a similar roster of interior features and technologies. This includes a dual-zone climate control system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, satellite radio, and a sunroof/moonroof. However, unlike the Mazda3, the Jetta offers a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Mazda3 vs. Jetta: Warranty coverage and reliability

For warranty coverage, the Mazda3 has the backing of a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. In comparison, the Jetta has a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 4-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The Jetta is a slightly more reliable car than the Mazda3. It earned a J.D. Power reliability rating of 76/100, compared to 74/100 for the Mazda3.

Mazda3 vs. Jetta: Price

Which compact car costs more: the 2022 Mazda3 or the 2022 Jetta? The starting price of the 2022 Mazda3 ranges from $20,800 MSRP for the Mazda3 Sedan 2.0 FWD trim up to $34,400 MSRP for the Mazda3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus AWD trim. In comparison, the starting price of the 2022 Jetta ranges from $20,195 MSRP for the 1.5T S trim up to $27,797 for the 1.5T SEL trim.

Please note: These prices are subject to change, as many automakers are increasing the prices of cars with the high inflation costs.

2022 Mazda3 vs. 2022 VW Jetta: Which compact car is better?

In this 2022 Mazda3 vs. 2022 VW Jetta comparison, each compact car has various advantages. For the 2022 Mazda3, advantages include performance, available all-wheel drive, safety, hatchback cargo space, and powertrain warranty coverage. Conversely, advantages for the 2022 Jetta include efficiency, passenger space, sedan cargo space, a Wi-Fi hotspot, basic warranty coverage, reliability, and a lower price.