2025 Honda Civic LX vs 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S
3 mpg better vs $1,255 less and 51 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 150 vs 158 hp, 36 vs 33 MPG.
The Civic LX leads on 3 MPG better. The Jetta S leads on $1,255 less, 51 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 | 2025 Honda Civic LX | 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $24,250 | $22,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 158 hp |
| Torque | 133 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 32 | 29 |
| Highway MPG | 41 | 39 |
| Combined MPG | 36 | 33 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,350/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,877 lbs | 3,012 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.7" | 105.7" |
| Length | 184.8" | 186.5" |
| Width | 70.9" | 70.8" |
| Height | 55.7" | 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 | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda Civic LX and 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S starts at $22,995, $1,255 less than the 2025 Honda Civic LX at $24,250. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $22/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Civic LX?
The 2025 Honda Civic LX is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $106/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,255 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda Civic LX or 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2025 Honda Civic LX rates 36 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda Civic LX or 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S produces 158 hp, 8 more than the 2025 Honda Civic LX at 150 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 133 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda Civic LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Honda Civic LX bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S is 1.7″ longer at 186.5″ vs 184.8″. The 2025 Honda Civic LX has a 2.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda Civic 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: Honda trims, Honda Civic trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Jetta trims
- 2025 Honda Civic LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Civic and Jetta Stack Up
Two compact cars, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2025 Honda Civic LX starts at $24,250; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S at $22,995. The $-1,255 gap is about $22/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Civic vs Jetta
The 2025 Honda Civic LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 8 hp difference (158 vs 150) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S adds 51 more lb-ft of torque (184 vs 133), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Honda Civic LX saves roughly $106/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $530.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Honda Civic LX when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $106/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S when you want to keep $1,255 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S 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 Honda or Volkswagen or any dealership.