2026 Volkswagen Jetta S vs 2025 Honda Accord LX
$4,300 less and 2 mpg better vs 34 more hp and 9.2″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,300 price gap, 158 vs 192 hp, 34 vs 32 MPG.
The Jetta S leads on $4,300 less, 2 MPG better. The Accord LX leads on 34 more hp, 9.2″ longer. 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 Volkswagen Jetta S | 2025 Honda Accord LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $23,995 | $28,295 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 192 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 192 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 | 29 |
| Highway MPG | 40 | 37 |
| Combined MPG | 34 | 32 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 14.8 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,300/yr | $1,350/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,998 lbs | 3,239 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.7" | 111.4" |
| Length | 186.5" | 195.7" |
| Width | 70.8" | 73.3" |
| Height | 57.7" | 57.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S and 2025 Honda Accord LX?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S starts at $23,995, $4,300 less than the 2025 Honda Accord LX at $28,295. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $75/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,300 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $77/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Accord LX?
The 2025 Honda Accord LX is the stronger pick when the extra 34 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S or 2025 Honda Accord LX?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S rates 34 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S or 2025 Honda Accord LX?
The 2025 Honda Accord LX produces 192 hp, 34 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S at 158 hp. The 2025 Honda Accord LX also leads in torque at 192 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S bigger than the 2025 Honda Accord LX?
The 2025 Honda Accord LX is 9.2″ longer at 195.7″ vs 186.5″. The 2025 Honda Accord LX has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Volkswagen Jetta comes with 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. The Honda Accord offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Jetta trims, Honda trims, Honda Accord trims
- 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Honda Accord LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Jetta–Accord Decision
Shopping compact cars means the Jetta and Accord will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $4,300 gap adds up to $75/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
Both run the same 1.5L I4 Turbo engine. The 2025 Honda Accord LX has 34 more hp (192 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use FWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S saves roughly $77/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $385.
Living With the Jetta vs the Accord
The 2025 Honda Accord LX has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S when you want to keep $4,300 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Honda Accord LX when the extra 34 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $75/month more, the 2025 Honda Accord LX needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Volkswagen or Honda or any dealership.