The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI includes some of the performance elements of the Golf GTI and Golf R, presenting an attractive balance of sportiness and value. Volkswagen imbued this small sedan with smart styling, a potent turbocharged engine, and ample standard features.
The 2019 Jetta GLI is an all-new model, part of the seventh-generation Jetta line launched this year (sixth for the GLI). An updated powertrain and more in-car and safety technologies highlight the changes.
The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is a five-passenger, front-wheel-drive compact performance sedan. It shares the same platform as other Jetta sedan models but adds performance features including a multi-link rear suspension, a limited-slip rear differential, and Golf R brakes.
The Jetta GLI has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Buyers have a choice of either the standard six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for $800. This model makes an EPA-estimated 25 miles per gallon city, 32 mpg highway, and 28 combined, regardless of the transmission pairing.
There are three trims available:
The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI S starts at $26,890 (all prices include the $895 destination charge). The list of standard equipment includes automatic LED projector headlights with LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, heated side mirrors, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler. Inside, the GLI S has keyless entry with push-button start, full power accessories, cloth seats, heated front seats, air conditioning, and an electronic parking brake.
This model also has a six-speaker audio system, a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and one USB port. On models equipped with the dual-clutch transmission, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters are included.
As for driver-assist technologies, Volkswagen includes a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and an automatic post-collision braking system.
The special 35th Anniversary Edition is a $1,000 upgrade, bringing this model’s starting price to $27,890. Volkswagen dresses this trim with dark grey aluminum-alloy wheels with a red stripe. A black roof, black mirror caps, black tail spoiler, and anniversary badging inside and out are also found here. A DCC adaptive damping system is exclusive to this model.
Topping the GLI range is the Autobahn at $30,090. This trim includes a panoramic power tilt-and-slide sunroof, leather-trimmed seats, an eight-way power driver’s seat, and remote start on models equipped with the automatic transmission. Volkswagen also includes an eight-speaker Beats audio system, a CD player, two USB ports, and an 8-inch color touchscreen. A 10.25-inch digital cockpit and satellite radio round out the upgrades.
The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI supplies ride comfort rivaling luxury cars. The special 35th Anniversary Edition adds decorative treatments and an advanced damping system, all for a cost-effective $1,000 upgrade over the base price.
