Jetta vs. Passat
First of all, it is better to describe what a Jetta and a Passat really are. Both car models are actually two different cars made by Volkswagen. For the sake of discussion, it is best to describe the two models at a time when they were at their peak (2006). This article also specifically details the differences between the Jetta GLI and a Passat 2.0T.
The Volkswagen Jetta was originally launched to fit the sedan market, but it falls just above the niche of the smaller family car type. To date, this car model has been marketed in different generations, such as Atlantic, Jetta City, Fox and Vento, among others. There was actually a time when Volkswagen named their cars after different winds, and that’s why Jetta is actually a Germanic term meaning “jet stream.”
Second, the Passat is another car model from Volkswagen. Unlike the Jetta (a compact family car or something small), the Passat actually belongs to the middle or larger class of family cars. That’s why many car lovers call this model the “stretched Jetta.” As for the origin of the name of the car model, the Passat is another Germanic term, which literally translates as “wind of trade”.
Styling-wise, the Passat boasts a “not-so-impressive” instrument panel. Truly, this is a major plus for the Jetta’s block panel setup. Also, it is said that more drivers judge the Passat to be aesthetically more beautiful than the Jetta, especially its newer version, which looks sleeker and more modern than its classy predecessors.
In terms of passenger accommodation, the Jetta may be the winner. Due to the size of the car, the Passat has a larger trunk, but its rear seats are said to be inferior to the Jetta’s. It’s because the Jetta’s rear seats aren’t mounted as close to the floor of the car. The result is a better view out front for those sitting in the back and more comfortable legroom. By contrast, the Passat’s rear seat is mounted a bit too low to the floor, making for poorer thigh support, and the car’s front-seat headrests block the view. Lastly, with all these features, it’s pretty obvious that the Passat is more expensive; A couple thousand dollars more than the Jetta.
In summary, although the Jetta and Passat are two of Volkswagen’s boldest cars, they are very different from each other for the following reasons:
1. Etymologically, Volkswagen’s Jetta means “jet stream,” while the Passat translates to “wind of commerce.”
2. The Jetta is relatively smaller, or slightly shorter, than the Passat (stretched Jetta, about 9 inches longer).
3. The Passat doesn’t have an imposing instrument panel, while the Jetta has a blocky panel.
4. The Passat has better accommodation for its rear passengers due to the position of its rear seats, compared to its Jetta counterpart.
