2020 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2020 Nissan Sentra near Washington, DC

2020 Volkswagen Jetta shown above with optional equipment.
You can take the reins of a compact sedan that knows no limits when you swing by Pohanka Volkswagen to witness what the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta has in store for you and your crew. Not only does this model boast peak performance, but it also incorporates interior accommodations that outweigh the competition. To prove that notion, we have created a head-to-head matchup with the 2020 Nissan Sentra to show you how the Jetta thrives when put through its paces.
Performance
Let’s get the ball rolling by addressing the engine options idling at the core of these sedans. The Jetta starts things off strong with its 1.4L Turbocharged engine, while the Sentra only provides the opportunity to select from a standard 2.0L naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder system. When you opt for the VW vehicle, you’ll be able to take advantage of a 30/40 MPG city/hwy1 fuel economy rating that will have you spending more time behind the wheel and less time at the pump. As for the Sentra, you’ll have to settle for a 29/39 MPG city/hwy2 fuel rating, which might have you stopping on your road trips down the Capital Beltway. The Jetta also puts its counterpart to shame, since it allows you to choose from a standard 6-speed manual transmission and an available 8-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic® and Sport mode. When you opt for the Nissan you’ll have to stick with the Xtronic CVT® across the board.
Interior
With the Volkswagen Jetta winning round one, let’s hop into the cabins of these vehicles to revel in the interior accommodations that each has to offer. For starters, you’ll be able to set the tone on your night out, because the VW vehicle features an available 10-color ambient lighting system that pulsates to the sound of your music. As for the Sentra, you won’t find anything like this. The Jetta also gives you the opportunity to keep tabs your diagnostics with ease, thanks to the available 10-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. As expected, the Nissan driving option doesn’t offer an instrument cluster of this caliber, and you'll have to settle for an available 7-inch display3. Lastly, the Volkswagen ride provides available heated rear outboard seats to keep your family members nice and toasty on frigid days, while the Sentra forces them to fend for themselves without any sort of heating upgrade.
Dimensions
Compact sedans commonly receive negative feedback for being a bit cramped in the spatial department. The Jetta is quick to shoot down those notions with its cozy cabin that allows you to spread out to your heart’s content. Up front, you and your co-pilot will be able to limit stress on your lower backs, because the Jetta includes 38.5 inches of headroom. You might feel a bit claustrophobic while riding in the Sentra, because it only offers 37.5 inches, which will force you to hunch down a bit more. Your family members sitting in the second row won’t appreciate their time spent in the Nissan either, because it includes 34.7 inches of legroom and 36.7 inches of head space. Once again, the Jetta steals the show, thanks to its 37.4 and 37.2 inches of space for these same respective dimensions.
You can learn more about the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta vs 2020 Nissan Sentra near Washington, DC, today at Pohanka Volkswagen. Then, you can take the clear winner for a test drive during our open hours!



Bottom Photo: 2020 Nissan Sentra with optional equipment.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta
2020 Nissan Sentra
- 30/40 MPG city/hwy
- 10-Color ambient lighting system
- Family Guardian Alerts
- Heated rear outboard seats
- 38.5 inches of front headroom
- 29/39 MPG city/hwy
- Feature unavailable
- Feature unavailable
- Feature unavailable
- 37.5 inches of front headroom
Additional Vehicle Information
Crash-Test Ratings
2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 4 DR FWD
| Overall |
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| Front Crash Overall |
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| Front Crash Driver |
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| Front Crash Passenger |
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| Side Crash Overall |
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| Side Barrier Overall |
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| Side Barrier Driver |
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| Side Barrier Passenger |
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| Side Pole Driver |
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| Side Combined Front |
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| Side Combined Rear |
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| Rollover |
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Sales Hours
240-764-4234
| Monday | 9:00 am - 8:00 pm |
| Tuesday | 9:00 am - 8:00 pm |
| Wednesday | 9:00 am - 8:00 pm |
| Thursday | 9:00 am - 8:00 pm |
| Friday | 9:00 am - 8:00 pm |
| Saturday | 9:00 am - 7:00 pm |
| Sunday | 11:00 am - 5:00 pm |
Awards
Green Score
EPA Green Score
( California LEV-III SULEV30
?
EPA and California-required standards. The names refer to tables of numerical limits for the various air pollutants allowed by the standards.
)
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
|
Air Pollution Score ?
The Air Pollution Score is based on the government emission standards for which the vehicle was certified to comply with and reflects vehicle tailpipe emissions that contribute to local and regional air pollution, creating problems such as haze, and health issues.
|
7
1
7
|
|
Greenhouse Gas Score ?
This score reflects fuel emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases.
|
6
1
6
|
|
Smartway ?
SmartWay is a designation earned by those vehicles that have combined Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Scores that place them in the top tier (approximately the top 20%) of environmental performers. SmartWay Elite is reserved for the best of the best.
|
N/A |
EPA Green Score
( Federal Tier 3 Bin 30
?
EPA and California-required standards. The names refer to tables of numerical limits for the various air pollutants allowed by the standards.
)
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
|
Air Pollution Score ?
The Air Pollution Score is based on the government emission standards for which the vehicle was certified to comply with and reflects vehicle tailpipe emissions that contribute to local and regional air pollution, creating problems such as haze, and health issues.
|
7
1
7
|
|
Greenhouse Gas Score ?
This score reflects fuel emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases.
|
6
1
6
|
|
Smartway ?
SmartWay is a designation earned by those vehicles that have combined Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Scores that place them in the top tier (approximately the top 20%) of environmental performers. SmartWay Elite is reserved for the best of the best.
|
N/A |
Dealership Information
- Features
- Specs
- Packages
Features
Features
- Technology
- Exterior
- Safety
- Mechanical
- Interior
- Comfort
Technology
Audio System
| Premium brand | Beats |
| Radio | voice operated, touch screen display, AM/FM, HD radio |
| Auxiliary audio input | Bluetooth, USB, iPod/iPhone |
| Antenna type | diversity, mast |
| In-Dash CD | single disc, MP3 Playback |
| Subwoofer | 1 |
| Total speakers | 8 |
| Watts | 400 |
| Radio data system | |
| Speed sensitive volume control | |
| Satellite radio | SiriusXM |
Telematics
| Electronic messaging assistance | with read function, voice operated |
| Wi-Fi | hotspot |
| Smart device app function | vehicle location, maintenance status, lock operation, horn/light operation |
| Driver assistance app | roadside assistance |
| Smart device app compatibility | Car-Net, Amazon Alexa |
| Wireless data link | Bluetooth |
| Hands-free phone call integration | voice operated |
In Car Entertainment
| Connected in-car apps | Google POIs, Google search, app marketplace integration |
| Smartphone integration | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Infotainment screen size | 8 in. |
Instrumentation
| Customizable instrument cluster | |
| Instrument cluster screen size | 10.25 in. |
| Warnings and reminders | lamp failure, low oil pressure, coolant temperature warning, low fuel level, low washer fluid, maintenance due |
| Clock | |
| Gauge | tachometer |
| Digital odometer | |
| External temperature display | |
| Multi-function display | |
| Fuel economy display | MPG, range |
| Trip odometer |
Exterior
Roof
| Moonroof / Sunroof | tilt/slide, one-touch open/close, anti-trapping, remotely operated, power glass, sliding sunshade |
Lights
| Daytime running lights | LED |
| Taillights | LED |
| Exterior entry lights | approach lamps |
| Headlights | LED, auto delay off, auto on/off |
Tires and Rims
| Spare tire size | temporary |
| Tire type | all season |
| Spare tire mount location | inside |
| Spare wheel type | steel |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | |
| Wheels | aluminum alloy with painted accents |
Exterior Features
| Ground effects/lower spoilers | |
| Front bumper color | body-color |
| Mirror color | body-color |
| Door handle color | body-color |
| Rear spoiler color | body-color |
| Exhaust tip color | chrome |
| Grille color | black |
| Rear bumper color | body-color |
| Exhaust | dual tip |
| Rear spoiler | lip |
| Window trim | black |
Windows
| Window defogger | rear |
| Front wipers | speed sensitive, variable intermittent, rain sensing |
| Power windows | safety reverse |
Safety
Safety
| Rearview monitor | in dash |
| Cross traffic alert | rear |
| Pre-collision warning system | audible warning, visual warning |
| Automatic emergency braking | rear, front |
| Impact sensor | post-collision safety system, door unlock, fuel cut-off, alert system |
| Child safety door locks | |
| Child seat anchors | LATCH system |
| Safety brake pedal system | |
| Emergency interior trunk release | |
| Camera system | rearview |
| Automatic hazard warning lights | |
| Blind spot safety | sensor/alert |
| Crumple zones | front, rear |
Airbags
| Airbag deactivation | occupant sensing passenger |
| Side airbags | front |
| Front airbags | dual |
| Side curtain airbags | front, rear |
Security
| Anti-theft system | alarm, vehicle immobilizer |
| Power door locks | anti-lockout, auto-locking |
Mirrors
| Side mirrors | integrated turn signals, heated |
| Side mirror adjustments | power, manual folding |
Mechanical
Drivetrain
| Drive mode selector | |
| Axle ratio | 2.62 |
| Limited slip differential | front |
Brakes
| Painted brake calipers | |
| Rear brake type | disc |
| Front brake width | 1.2 |
| Rear brake diameter | 11.8 |
| Rear brake width | 0.5 |
| Front brake diameter | 13.4 |
| Front brake type | ventilated disc |
| Braking assist | |
| Electronic brakeforce distribution | |
| ABS | 4-wheel |
| Power brakes | |
| Electronic parking brake | auto off |
| Cornering brake control |
Suspension
| Front suspension classification | independent |
| Rear suspension classification | independent |
| Front struts | MacPherson |
| Rear suspension type | multi-link |
| Rear spring type | coil |
| Front spring type | coil |
| Active suspension | |
| Front suspension type | lower control arms |
| Suspension control | electronic |
| Tuned suspension | sport |
| Rear shock type | gas |
| Front shock type | gas |
| Front stabilizer bar | diameter 24 mm |
| Rear stabilizer bar | diameter 22 mm |
Stability and Traction
| Stability control | |
| Traction control | |
| Hill holder control |
Engine
| Battery saver | |
| Battery | maintenance-free |
| Alternator | 140 amps |
Interior
Seats
| Upholstery accents | contrast stitching, perforated |
| Driver seat power adjustments | height, 8, lumbar, reclining |
| Driver seat | ventilated, heated |
| Passenger seat | heated, ventilated |
| Rear headrests | 3, adjustable |
| Passenger seat manual adjustments | 4, reclining |
| Rear seat folding | split |
| Front headrests | 2, adjustable |
| Upholstery | leather |
| Rear seat type | 60-40 split bench |
| Front seat type | sport bucket |
Steering
| Steering ratio | 10.3 |
| Turns lock-to-lock | 2.1 |
Seatbelts
| Seatbelt pretensioners | front |
| Seatbelt force limiters | front |
| Emergency locking retractors | rear, front |
| Seatbelt warning sensor | front |
| Rear seatbelts | 3-point |
| Front seatbelts | 3-point |
Comfort
Convenience Features
| Wireless charging station | front |
| Power steering | electric, variable/speed-proportional |
| Cupholders | front, rear |
| Memorized settings | 4 driver, climate control, driver seat, side mirrors, audio system |
| Steering wheel | tilt and telescopic |
| One-touch windows | 4 |
| Reading lights | front, rear |
| Power outlet(s) | 12V rear, 12V front |
| Cargo area light | |
| Cruise control | |
| Multi-function remote | panic alarm, proximity entry system, trunk release |
| Power windows | lockout button |
| Overhead console | front |
| Steering wheel mounted controls | audio, cruise control, phone, multi-function, voice control |
| Vanity mirrors | dual illuminating |
| Assist handle | rear, front |
| Center console | front console with armrest and storage |
| Rearview mirror | auto-dimming |
| Footwell lights | color-adjustable |
| Storage | front seatback, sunglasses holder, door pockets |
| Ambient lighting | color-adjustable |
Comfort Features
| Floor mat material | carpet |
| Shift knob trim | leather |
| Steering wheel trim | leather |
| Interior accents | metallic-tone |
| Armrests | rear center with cupholders |
| Floor mats | rear, front |
| Floor material | carpet |
| Door sill trim | illuminated scuff plate |
| Foot pedal trim | stainless steel |
Air Conditioning
| Front air conditioning | automatic climate control |
| Front air conditioning zones | dual |
| Rear vents | second row |
| Air filtration |
Specs
Specs
Drive Type
| Drive Type | FWD |
Seating
| Standard Seating | 5 |
| Max Seating | 5 |
| Head Room (front) | 38.5 in |
| Head Room (rear) | 37.2 in |
| Shoulder Room (front) | 55.9 in |
| Shoulder Room (rear) | 54 in |
| Leg Room (front) | 41.1 in |
| Leg Room (rear) | 37.4 in |
| Seating Rows | 2 |
Measurements of Size & Shape
| Length | 185.2 in |
| Width | 70.8 in |
| Width (without mirrors) | 70.8 in |
| Height | 56.8 in |
| Wheelbase | 105.6 in |
| Ground Clearance | 5 in |
| Track Width (front) | 60.7 in |
| Track Width (rear) | 60.4 in |
Measurements of Weight
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4299 lbs |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Range | 4001-5000 lbs |
| Curb Weight | 3217 lbs |
Truck Specifications
| Max Payload | 893 lbs |
Interior Dimensions
| Cargo Volume | 14.1 cu ft |
| Passenger Volume | 94.7 cu ft |
Performance Specifications
| Aerodynamic Drag | 0.27 Cd |
| Turning Circle | 36.4 ft |
Fuel Tanks
| Fuel Capacity | 13.2 Gallons |
Wheels and Tires
| Front Tire Type | 225/45R18 91H |
| Front Wheel Diameter | 18.0 x 7.5 in |
| Rear Tire Type | 225/45R18 91H |
| Rear Wheel Diameter | 18.0 x 7.5 in |
Packages
1 Packages Available
Includes 18 In. black alloy wheels with all season tires, black side mirror caps, black roof, and black rear decklid lip spoiler.
Testimonials
“ The staff was very personal and very helpful ”
“ I always have a great experience at Pohanka VW Capital Heights! I appreciate the text videos of my service, the follow up calls, and how the staff really listen to you. Shout out to Andrea for always being friendly and knowledgeable. ”
“ First dealership where I've never had to make an appointment. Great customer service. ”
“ Andrea is great! ”
“ Over the span of several years, I have purchased 6 cars from Pohanka Volkswagen! I think that says it all! ”
“ This was the first visit to have complimentary service oil change. It was very good service and surprisingly fast. I really liked that the mechanic working on my car sent a video of what was done. I have brought different cars over the years and that was never done⭐️ ”
“ I had an amazing experience with this dealership from my saleswoman to the gentleman working in the finance office, they were both very helpful and respectful! ”
“ Great service ”
“ Fixed my vehicle in a less then 2 weeks good time vehicle definitely feels better driving it. ”
“ I’m taken care of every time I have been here I like the video they send while work is in progress ”
“ LJ and team were great! I told him what I wanted and that I didn’t want all the back and forth! He made it happen! Super excited about my purchase! Highly recommend ”
“ I’m not even sure where to begin, but I’ll start with this: I’ve been going through something incredibly difficult. I had to rebuild fast. I researched, I asked questions, and I walked into Pohanka VW hoping for even a small win. What I got was three people who treated me with respect, patience, and genuine care. DeMarco was the first person who didn’t rush me, pressure me, or dismiss me when I was nervous and overshared for 2 days prior. He listened. He slowed things down. He made space for me to breathe. LJ was calm, steady, and kind — even when I tried to haggle (not my strength!). He never made me feel silly or out of place. He just guided me through it. And Zach in finance… he worked magic. He showed me my real credit score, walked me through every detail, and somehow got me the best VW package and LoJack. He made sure my kids and I were protected and set up for success. These three didn’t just make a sale. They went above and beyond because they could see I genuinely needed support. They could have let me walk away, but instead they worked to get me the best outcome possible. To LJ, DeMarco, and Zach — thank you. Truly. The time you spent with me before the purchase and today meant more than you realize. My kids and I are safe, stable, and back on our feet because of the way you showed up. Blessed and grateful. 10 outta 5 Stars ”
“ I worked with John Pinkney on identifying the right fit for me and my family. He was thorough in sharing the best of what VW has to offer. Great sales consultant! ”
“ Very personable and accommodating staff, from sales, to manager, to finance manager. We were able to find a car that fit our needs and style. Would recommend. ”
“ The staff at Pohanka Volkswagon were amazing! This was my first time purchasing a car and they all made it a breeze. LJ even went above and beyond staying late to help make sure everything was finalized and we got to drive our new car off the lot. Denario was efficient and helpful and they even filled the gas up and gave it a was before we drive away. The last stop was with Joann in finance who made everything a breeze. All in all a wonderful experience that we would happily recommend to others! Thanks Pohanka Volkswagon. ”
“ Fast and efficient! My experience was great. Just go there and see for yourself. ”
“ It was a beautiful day at the Park cleaning my VW Tiguan. Thanks Pohanka technicians at Pohanka for great work on my 2018 Tiguan. It drives like it's brand new. Thanks Team. 💞 ”
“ She was very detailed and she made sure that I understood what was going on ”
“ My experience at Pohanka VW @ Ritchie Station was definitely amazing! From the time I walked in until the time I left. We all know going to a car dealership is an all day process smh! But my team made it totally painless. I was 1st greeted by Keyshawn who instantly became my salesman, his welcoming personality is what drew me in and his knowledge of the inventory. Lamar was the manager overseeing my application, he really did everything in his power to get me the right number/ financed, he got me right at the number I needed to be! Zach in finance made my signing process a breeze, no issues and a very personable guy! All in all my experience was great, 0 complaints. I’m happy to be officially apart of the VW family! P.S. I love my new 2026 Jetta! Her name is Graycee😍 ”
“ Nice place and the lounge was phenomenal. The zero gravity chair was the best part too. ”
“ I bought a 2026 Volkswagen Sport. The sales rep was terrific and guided me into the right direction. ”
“ Courtesy, made a priority! ”
“ Marcos and Keshawn were very helpful and knowledgeable. Keyshawn was my salesman. They made my experience a pleasant one. Zachary, the finance person help me sort out the different warranties. I would recommend this dealership. ”
“ The salesman was very helpful and understanding. He was able to meet my needs and found a great vehicle that was fitting for me. Lastly, he was patient kind and informational. ”
“ Good services but when I got the car back after the tire change all the caps were missing and had to tell them to put them back on. Other than that everything was good. ”
“ Recently, we purchased our second car from Pohanka VW. The financing process could have been quicker and a bit more transparent. However, our sales consultant, John Pinkey, was fantastic. He made the experience as stress free as car shopping can be. He will definitely be our first stop the next time we are in the market for a vehicle. ”
“ It’s a nice place,the only thing I don’t like,they don’t wash or clean the car after an oil change or any maintenance,I used to go to other place they always was your car for you after any maintenance. ”
“ Brutal experience. Was working with a salesperson (and apparently a manager) who put an offer in on my vehicle. Drive the 40 minutes to the dealership for a full appraisal, only to told they don't purchase vehicles there and I had wasted my time coming down. ”
“ The drop off and evaluation was extremely long The took an hour to verify my warranty Had to leave the car I was not able to get a rental or loaner to get home Had to get an uber to get home Car was promised for Monday and was not ready until Thursday Not a pleasant experience ”
“ On Saturday, I visited your dealership to view a Ford Bronco. Upon arrival, I was informed that an associate had taken the vehicle off the lot. I was confused as to why a dealership vehicle would be taken during business hours, making it unavailable to potential customers. I was later advised by Manager Lamar that he had authorized this. As a result of this experience, my confidence and interest in purchasing this vehicle were significantly diminished. ”
Current Inventory
There are currently no 2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn 4dr Sedan 6M for Sale in inventory
Disclaimer
We make every effort to provide accurate information but please verify options and price with management before purchasing. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. All financing is subject to approved credit from participating lender. Dealer installed options are additional. Stock photo colors, options and trim levels may vary. Dealer not responsible for typographical errors. Published price subject to change without notice to correct errors and omissions or in the event of inventory fluctuations. Vehicle offers/prices expire at the end of each business day. Vehicles may be in transit to dealer. Vehicle photos may not match exact vehicle. Please call to confirm availability status. All prices exclude taxes, title, tags, and electronic titling fee. All prices include a $800 dealer processing fee (Not required by law). MSRP includes destination and handling.
NHTSA Government 5-Star Safety Ratings are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s New Car Assessment Program (www.nhtsa.gov/ratings). Model tested with standard side airbags (SAB).
**Based on model year EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery pack age/condition, and other factors.
1. Based on EPA estimates. See www.fueleconomy.gov for details. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.
2. 2020 EPA fuel economy estimates for Sentra®: • 29 city MPG / 39 hwy MPG / 33 combined MPG for 2020 Sentra S and SV • 28 city MPG / 37 hwy MPG / 32 combined MPG for 2020 Sentra SR Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions – use for comparison only.
3. Driving is serious business and requires your full attention. If you have to use the feature while driving, exercise extreme caution at all times so full attention may be given to vehicle operation.
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“ When I arrived, I was greeted by Lavelton, who was respectful throughout the process. He made sure I was comfortable with my selections. The staff was courteous, and Zachary was great for the short time we spent together. ”