2026 Honda Civic LX vs 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Jetta S starts at $24,440, $510 less. Civic LX leads with 35 MPG. Jetta S makes 158 hp (+8).
| Spec | 2026 Honda Civic LX | 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $24,950 +$510 | $24,440 Save $510 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 1.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 150 hp 8 hp less | 158 hp +8 hp |
| Torque | 133 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 31 +1 | 30 1 less |
| Hwy MPG | 40 1 less | 41 +1 |
| Combined MPG | 35 +1 | 34 1 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 14.8 cu ft | 14.1 cu ft |
| Screen | 7.0" | 8.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | No | No |
| Heated Seats | No | No |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,952 lbs | 3,054 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.7" | 105.6" |
| Length | 184.0" | 187.1" |
| Wheels | 16" Alloy | 16" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Honda Sensing | IQ.DRIVE |
Civic LX or Jetta S?
Both are competitive. Jetta S has a lower entry price, Civic LX leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda Civic LX and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Civic LX or Jetta S?
Should I buy a 2026 Honda Civic or Volkswagen Jetta?
Which is more reliable, the Honda Civic or Volkswagen Jetta?
Is the Honda Civic bigger than the Volkswagen Jetta?
What is the cost of insurance for the Civic LX vs Jetta S?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Honda Civic LX?
Who Should Choose the Civic LX
The 2026 Honda Civic LX appeals to buyers who prioritize what Honda does best: refinement and reliability. At $24,950, it positions itself as the more feature-rich option.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 35 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Honda ownership comes with strong reliability and excellent driving dynamics. Compare more: Civic LX vs Civic Sport, Civic LX vs Civic Sport Hybrid, Civic LX vs Civic Sport Touring Hybrid.
Who Should Choose the Jetta S
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. With 158 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.
Volkswagen's approach to this sedan emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Jetta S deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $510 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Civic LX is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Jetta S makes 8 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen also contribute. Both are competitive within the sedan market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these sedans will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Sedans Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe sedans with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Honda and Volkswagen often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.