2009 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 565 kg more than 2013 Toyota Highlander.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2013 Toyota Highlander (252 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Jetta. 2013 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
| Model | Jetta | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2310 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
