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Subaru Forester vs Volkswagen Jetta - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (180 HP vs 158 HP), trunk space and price (30,000 $ vs 22,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Subaru Forester or Volkswagen Jetta?

Subaru Forester vs Volkswagen Jetta: Key differences

Subaru Forester

  • a bit more power

Volkswagen Jetta

  • visibly cheaper
  • a bit more efficient
  • slightly lighter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Forester

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Volkswagen Jetta is visibly cheaper – starting at 22,000 $ , while the Subaru Forester costs 30,000 $ . That’s a price difference of around 8,000 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Volkswagen Jetta performs a bit better – achieving 30 mpg, compared to 26 mpg for the Subaru Forester. That’s a difference of about 4 mpg.

Jetta

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Subaru Forester offers a bit more power – delivering 180 HP compared to 158 HP. That’s roughly 22 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Volkswagen Jetta delivers marginally more torque with 184 lb-ft compared to 178 lb-ft. That’s about 6 lb-ft more.

Forester

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Volkswagen Jetta is slightly lighter – 3,012 lbs compared to 3,510 lbs. The difference is around 498 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Volkswagen Jetta holds a slight edge in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $22,000
Jetta

Volkswagen Jetta

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel
  • Power HP : 158 HP
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View detailed analysis

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View detailed analysis

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View detailed analysis

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is the outdoorsy family SUV that shrugs off muddy trails and bad weather as easily as it handles school runs. With airy visibility, a practical cabin, and unflappable all-wheel-drive confidence, it delivers no-drama comfort during the week and genuine adventure vibes on the weekend without trying too hard.

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Volkswagen Jetta

The Volkswagen Jetta offers a smooth blend of practicality and style, making it a popular choice among compact sedans. Its interior boasts a modern design with user-friendly features, ensuring a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers. With its balanced performance and fuel efficiency, the Jetta easily adapts to both city commutes and longer road trips.

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Subaru Forester
Volkswagen Jetta

Costs and Consumption
Price
30,000 - 40,300 $
Price
22,000 - 29,000 $
FuelEconomy City
25 - 26 mpg
FuelEconomy City
29 - 30 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
32 - 33 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
40 - 41 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
16.6 gal
Fuel tank capacity
13.2 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Sedan
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,510 - 3,664 lbs
Curb weight
3,012 - 3,071 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
14.1 cu. ft.
Length
183.3 in.
Length
186.5 in.
Width
72 in.
Width
70.8 in.
Height
68 in.
Height
57 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
All Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Power HP
180 HP
Power HP
158 HP
Torque
178 lb-ft
Torque
184 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Engine Displacement
1.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,025
Brand
Subaru
Brand
Volkswagen
What is the price of the Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester starts at 30,000 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.