2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL vs 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line
3 mpg better vs $595 less and 43 more hp. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 158 vs 201 hp, 34 vs 31 MPG.
The Jetta SEL leads on 3 MPG better. The Elantra N Line leads on $595 less, 43 more hp. 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 | 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL | 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,995 | $29,400 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 1.6L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 | 28 |
| Highway MPG | 40 | 35 |
| Combined MPG | 34 | 31 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,300/yr | $1,400/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,058 lbs | 3,020 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.7" | 107.1" |
| Length | 186.5" | 185.4" |
| Width | 70.8" | 71.9" |
| Height | 57.7" | 55.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL and 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line starts at $29,400, $595 less than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL at $29,995. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $10/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $120/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line is the stronger pick when you want to keep $595 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line covers your needs; the extra 43 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL or 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL rates 34 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL or 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line produces 201 hp, 43 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL at 158 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line also leads in torque at 195 lb-ft vs 184 lb-ft. The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line uses a 1.6L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL is 1.1″ longer at 186.5″ vs 185.4″. The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line has a 1.4″ 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 Hyundai Elantra offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Jetta trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Elantra trims
Jetta vs Elantra: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL and 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line are both compact cars competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-595 gap is about $10/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line uses a 1.6L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line has 43 more hp (201 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use FWD.
Running Costs: Jetta vs Elantra
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL saves roughly $120/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $600.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta SEL when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $120/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line when you want to keep $595 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line 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 Volkswagen or Hyundai or any dealership.