2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI First Look

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI First Look By Auto Critic Steve Hammes

Coming this spring is the feistiest version of the all-new Jetta; the small, sporty GLI.

Marking its 6^th generation, the 2019 GLI swaps the Jetta’s 1.4-liter engine for the GTI’s 2.0-liter turbo, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque – increasing its power over the previous generation.

And yes – a 6-speed manual is still available while a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic is optional.  Its brakes are shared with VW’s other performance cars as is the limited slip differential that helps to improve traction and further performance by reducing understeer.

A fully independent, lowered sport suspension is made even more sophisticated on the special 35^th Anniversary model by adding an adaptive damping system which includes a Comfort setting to the 4 standard drive modes: Normal, Sport, Eco and Custom.

In addition to a more dynamic throttle and shift response and tighter steering, Sport mode includes a more spirited exhaust note.  The black interior can be specified with either cloth or leather depending on trim while available features like the Digital Cockpit display, 400-watt Beats Audio system and 10-color customizable ambient lighting add pizzazz.

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is available in 2 regular trim levels and a 35^th Anniversary Edition.  Pricing has yet to be announced.