2026 Toyota Camry SE vs 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE
On paper, the 2026 Toyota Camry SE wins on 12 MPG better, 74 more hp, AWD. The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 232 vs 158 hp, 46 vs 34 MPG.
The Camry SE leads on 12 MPG better, 74 more hp. The Jetta SE leads on $6,140 less. 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 | 2026 Toyota Camry SE | 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,125 | $26,985 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 hybrid | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 232 hp | 158 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 46 | 29 |
| Highway MPG | 46 | 40 |
| Combined MPG | 46 | 34 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.0 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,300/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,627 lbs | 3,058 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 105.7" |
| Length | 193.5" | 186.5" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.8" |
| Height | 56.9" | 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 2026 Toyota Camry SE and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE starts at $26,985, $6,140 less than the 2026 Toyota Camry SE at $33,125. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $108/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Camry SE?
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $322/year less on fuel; the extra 74 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 SE?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,140 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Camry SE or 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE?
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE rates 46 combined MPG, 12 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Camry SE or 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE?
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE produces 232 hp, 74 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE at 158 hp. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Toyota Camry SE, FWD on the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE.
Is the 2026 Toyota Camry SE bigger than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE?
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE is 7.0″ longer at 193.5″ vs 186.5″. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE has a 5.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Toyota Camry SE and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE comes with AWD, while the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE 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
- 2026 Toyota Camry SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Camry vs Jetta: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE and 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-6,140 gap adds up to $108/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE has 74 more hp (232 vs 158). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE comes with AWD; the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Camry vs Jetta
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE saves roughly $322/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,610.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE has a 5.5″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE weighs 569 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Toyota Camry SE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $322/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE when you want to keep $6,140 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SE 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.