2024 Toyota Camry XSE vs 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL
47 more hp and awd vs $3,125 less and 6 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 205 vs 158 hp, 28 vs 34 MPG.
The Camry XSE leads on 47 more hp, AWD. The Jetta SEL leads on $3,125 less, 6 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2024 Toyota Camry XSE | 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,120 | $29,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 205 hp | 158 hp |
| Torque | 185 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 29 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 40 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 34 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,300/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,580 lbs | 3,058 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 105.7" |
| Length | 192.7" | 186.5" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.8" |
| Height | 57.1" | 57.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL starts at $29,995, $3,125 less than the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE at $33,120. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $55/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE?
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE is the stronger pick when the extra 47 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,125 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $265/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE or 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL rates 34 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE or 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE produces 205 hp, 47 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL at 158 hp. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE also leads in torque at 185 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE, FWD on the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL.
Is the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE is 6.2″ longer at 192.7″ vs 186.5″. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE has a 5.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE comes with AWD, while the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Toyota Camry comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Jetta offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota Camry trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Jetta trims
- 2024 Toyota Camry XSE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Camry–Jetta Decision
Shopping midsize sedans means the Camry and Jetta will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $-3,125 gap adds up to $55/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE has 47 more hp (205 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE comes with AWD; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL saves roughly $265/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,325.
Living With the Camry vs the Jetta
The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE has a 5.5″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2024 Toyota Camry XSE weighs 522 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2024 Toyota Camry XSE when the extra 47 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL when you want to keep $3,125 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Toyota or Volkswagen or any dealership.