2022 BMW i4 vs 2022 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2022 BMW i4's design closely mirrored the gasoline-powered 4 Series Gran Coupe, featuring a polarizing oversized grille and a "Gran Coupe" label that might confuse some, as it was essentially a four-door sedan with a rear hatch. Despite its resemblance to its gasoline sibling, the i4 boasted improved aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient of 0.24 for the base eDrive40 and 0.25 for the M50 model. This was achieved through various design tweaks, including a smooth underbody and an active grille flap. The i4 also featured lighter alloy wheels and a battery pack mounted below the floor, enhancing structural rigidity. The interior balanced minimalism with traditional BMW elements, featuring a freestanding screen and familiar controls, though leather upholstery was not standard.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta maintained its status as Volkswagen's best-selling vehicle, even amidst declining overall sales. In 2022, the Jetta accounted for a significant portion of VW's U.S. sales, with a mild makeover that included an engine update, exterior styling tweaks, and improved infotainment. The Jetta's design changes were subtle, with chrome accents on the grille and bumper, and new wheel designs. The interior updates included a new rhombus pattern on cloth seats and contrast stitching for a premium look. The Jetta offered a comfortable cabin with ample passenger space and a driver-centric layout, featuring buttons for essential controls and usable storage space.

The 2022 BMW i4 offered impressive performance with its base eDrive40 model producing 335 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The M50 model, with its two-motor powertrain, delivered 536 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. Despite its weight, the i4's handling was commendable, thanks to its low center of gravity and advanced suspension systems. The Dynamic Handling Package further enhanced the driving experience, providing a smooth ride and precise steering. The i4's regenerative braking system, while innovative, had mixed reviews regarding its adaptive recuperation feature.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta was powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It offered a choice between a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Jetta excelled in fuel economy, with impressive EPA ratings and real-world performance during long drives. However, its powertrain had some drawbacks, including a touchy throttle and turbo lag. The Jetta's drive modes offered varying experiences, with Sport mode providing a slight improvement in dynamics. Overall, the Jetta delivered adequate acceleration and a comfortable ride, though it lacked the excitement of more performance-oriented vehicles.

The 2022 BMW i4 featured a low seating position despite its battery pack, with limited headroom due to its fastback roof. While the interior felt open, the seats were flat and hard, lacking the expected bolstering. The i4 offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, less than some competitors. The absence of a front trunk was notable, but the hatchback design allowed for easier loading and unloading.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta provided ample passenger space for four adults, with comfortable seats and a driver-centric cabin layout. Ergonomics were well thought out, with buttons for essential controls and convenient storage options. The center console bin, while not large, was functional, though the lack of a latch on the compartment cover was unusual. Overall, the Jetta's interior was practical and user-friendly.

The 2022 BMW i4 was equipped with the latest iDrive8 infotainment system and BMW Curved Display, featuring a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, with options for a head-up display and premium audio. The user experience was intuitive, with a rotary controller and effective voice recognition system.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta received technology upgrades, including the Digital Cockpit digital instrument cluster. The Jetta SEL featured a 10.25-inch display with customizable views and widgets. Infotainment options included a 6.5-inch MIB2 system for lower trims and an 8-inch MIB3 system for the SEL, offering navigation, wireless connectivity, and premium audio. While the touchscreen was responsive, voice activation had limitations, requiring specific prompts for accurate results.

The 2022 BMW i4 came with standard driver-assist features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree camera system. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta featured IQ.Drive, with standard blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward-collision warning. Higher trims included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. While crash-test ratings for 2022 were unavailable, the 2021 Jetta received high marks from NHTSA and IIHS, with some areas for improvement in headlight performance and LATCH use.