Updated Jetta GLI hits its groove
Calling all commuters. Volkswagen, after hitting an owner-trustworthiness low with the endless dieselemissions controversy, hits the nail on the head with its redesigned, sleek and sporty sedan, the Jetta GLI.
Jetta, German for “jet stream,” provides a powerful 2.0-liter TSI turbocharged, 228-horsepower, four-cylinder engine producing 258 lb.-ft. of torque while producing up to 32 mpg. Our test returned 29.1 mpg overall at highway and city speeds.
I took this “sports sedan” to the Catskill Mountains of New York, where the picturesque background along with steep mountain roads are a good test for the glitzy GLI. The tornado red GLI stood up to the test and handled great. The pep and ability to lead the pack on the highway, city and all roads in between, including mountain roads, was phenomenal. The comfort of the GLI is worth mentioning as well. VW is known for lackluster frills and thrills, but the GLI
was fairly comfortable and quite roomy.
In 1979, VW searched for a way to enter the economical market yet attract families and commuters who needed something a bit larger than the Beetle. It’s 40 years later, and the automaker still has that same outlook. In 1984, the GLI hit the market. This year offers its 35th Anniversary edition.
The GLI is a gem for commuters and small families, offering pep great for quick starts and more-than-capable cruising. Roomy for passengers without sacrificing cargo, the GLI has become a workhorse in the lineup.
The anniversary edition enhances the Jetta to an even sportier model than others, with a sporty black roof, blacked-out wheels and red pinstripe wheel trim to set itself apart.
Known for endless model options and configurations, VW offers 13 Jetta models beginning at $18,745, and six GLI models topping out at $29,995.