2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Toyota Matrix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Toyota Matrix would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 2011 Toyota Matrix (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2011 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 2011 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
| Model | Jetta | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1482 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2651 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
