The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta regained its hotness at the Chicago Auto Show on Thursday. The Golf GTI-inspired Jetta GLI will arrive at dealerships in the spring of this year with three trims: two regular levels and a 35th anniversary edition.
Starting with the engine, the GLI goes full GTI with a 228-hp, 258-lb-ft turbocharged 2.0-liter four. A six-speed manual is standard, and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is optional. The familiar mill features variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides, as well as variable exhaust valve lift. All that makes for more efficient and precise burning of fuel and air.
Like the base Jetta, the GLI rides on VW’s MQB platform but sits more than a half inch lower. McPherson struts keep the front planted while a new multilink setup holds down the rear. The brakes are shared with the Golf GTI and R, measuring 13.4 inches in front. It also has a front limited slip differential and variable ratio electric steering. The anniversary models comes standard with VW’s adaptive damper setup.
Driving modes include normal, sport, eco and custom. Predictably, normal is a balanced setting, sport “is tuned for a more dynamic throttle and shift response,” eco improves fuel economy and custom allows the driver to tailor the steering, throttle, front differential and engine note. On anniversary models, the dampers are also affected. They also get a comfort driving mode.
Exterior changes start with standard LED projector headlights and a honeycomb grille. The brake calipers are red, while new 18-inch wheels are exclusive to the hot Jetta.
Inside we can see more cues from the Golf GTI with black perforated seats, red accents, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and sport displays. The GLI also comes standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, ambient lighting, keyless entry, heated seats, dual-zone climate control and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Options include VW’s digital cockpit display, sunroof, Beats Audio, satellite radio, ventilated seats and more. Standard safety features consist of forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitor, rear traffic alert and the automatic post-collision braking system.
No pricing yet, but the Golf is generally a few grand more than the Jetta, so we estimate $25,000 or so. We’ll know more by spring.
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