There was a time when compact cars were a compromised and lesser way to get from point A to point B. Before long however, car manufacturers realized that improving content and design in these cars would draw a whole new clientele. Volkswagen was among the first to blend performance and luxury features in their compact Jetta and Golf. Today, it has become the norm.

The new 2020 Volkswagen Jetta is a perfect example of the limitless possibilities provided by today’s modern small cars. The new 2020 Mazda3 is another fine example of how a small car really can be and do anything. Despite their similarities in intent, there are considerable differences between the two cars.

Volkswagen’s approach hasn’t always been “Autobahn for all” by accident. This is why the Jetta comes standard with a powerful yet extremely frugal turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. It generates 147-horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque from an incredibly low 1,500 rpm, which makes all the difference.

The Mazda3’s base engine is a naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter 4-cylinder which produces 155-horsepower and 150 lb.-ft. however at much higher rpm. In order to achieve the performance provided by the VW’s 1.4-liter, Mazda3 buyers must move up the trim ladder and select a model with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. Although it offers 186-horsepower, its torque figure is of only 186 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm.

Now, even though both cars can be equipped as standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, it's the more popular automatic transmission that display the 1.4-liter’s true advantage. The Jetta’s optional and efficient 8-speed automatic that enables some superior fuel efficiency numbers. Consuming as little as 5.9L/100km on the highway, the Jetta out-performs the Mazda3’s 6-speed automatic transmission’s 6.4L/100km highway fuel average. The available 2.5-liter downs 6.6L/100km highway.

Styling-wise, both cars are visually appealing. And although they are considered compacts, they deliver plenty of room for five occupants however the Volkswagen Jetta’s trunk is more capacious at 399 liters vs 345 liters for the Mazda3 sedan.

Safety and infotainment technologies abound in both cars but only one feels and drives like a Volkswagen. Furthermore, the Jetta includes as standard 16-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting and much more.

You need to come and try one out for yourself.