The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI model marks 35 years of power packed fun. The first Volkswagen Jetta GLI was created in 1984 on the idea of pairing a four-door, affordable compact sedan designed for everyday usability with the engine and handling prowess of a hot hatchback.
The original formula still stands today. The 2019 GLI has more power, technology and more handling prowess than its predecessor, in a package that’s within reach of the compact-sedan market.
“Volkswagen has long been synonymous with small, sporty cars,” said Scott Keogh, CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “The 2019 GLI takes the redesigned Jetta foundation and adds performance features from the Golf GTI to give buyers a true
The Power
The 2019 GLI borrows the GTI’s 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI engine, good for 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel, an increase of 18 horsepower and 41 lb-ft from the previous GLI. That power gets to the road through a choice of either a six-speed manual or an advanced seven-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission – a type of transmission usually reserved for high-end performance vehicles.
The GLI uses a strut front suspension and a new multilink independent rear suspension to keep the 18-inch wheels planted. Volkswagen took the same brakes that are used on the Golf R and upgraded the rears from the regular Jetta. And the GLI also employs the VAQ torque-sensing limited-slip differential, a key part of the GTI performance package that helps to mitigate understeer while powering through corners.
The New Design
The 2019 Edition gets a bit of a tweak in the design department. Starting with a 0.6-inch drop in ride height. The red GTI-themed lined in the grille to the red brake calipers and integrated spoiler, finned diffusor and dual chrome exhaust tips. The GLI is packed with more performance under the hood to keep it sophisticated to give it a more grown-up look for those who aren’t going for the boy racer look.
Hot Features Include: *
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- App-Connect Cellphone Connectivity
- 10-color Ambient Lighting
- Automatic Climate Control
- Keyless Access
- Heated Front Seats
If you are looking for some additional upgrades, GLI options include 400-watt BeatsAudio system, a sunroof, ventilated seats and the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit.
This year there will also be a Jetta GLI 35th anniversary edition, with unique, dark gray-painted wheels, a black roof, mirror caps and spoiler, and badging. Inside the 35th Anniversary edition has unique seat tags, floormats and sill kickplates. This model also features the DCC adaptive damping system.
New standard Drive Mode Selection
The GLI will a new standard Drive Mode Selection which allows drivers to pick their GLI’s dynamic behavior. Including four modes of “Normal,” “Sport,” “Eco,” and “Custom.”
Normal mode allows a balanced experience, while Sport gives a dynamic throttle and shift response, tighter steering, and more exhaust note. Eco mode optimizes shift points, throttle response and climate control settings for improved fuel economy.*
The pricing hasn’t yet been revealed, but the new Jetta GLI is scheduled to hit dealerships this spring. So, keep watch on The Reed Factor for the new Volkswagen Jetta GLI to land at ReedHasIt.com.
*Driver Assistance features are not substitutes for attentive driving. See Owner’s Manual for further
Always pay careful attention to the road, and do not drive while distracted. Not all features available on all operating systems. Standard text and data usage rates apply. App-Connect features require
33See Owner’s Manual for further details and important warnings about the keyless ignition feature. Do not leave
*44Your fuel economy will vary and depends on several factors including your driving habits and vehicle condition. See fueleconomy.gov for details.
