Volkswagen Jetta GLI
The 2026 Jetta is available in four attractive trims: the S, Sport, SE, and SEL. All trims share the same 1.5L turbo-charged 4-cylinder engine producing 184 ft.-lbs. of torque at a mere 1400 RPM. A choice of two transmissions is available, a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic. Horsepower is 158 with an astounding 40 miles per gallon highway rating.
The Jetta GLI is available in only one trim, the Autobahn powered by as 2L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic transmission. The Jetta GLI produces 228 horsepower and 258 ft.-lbs. of torque.
Base S trim models come very nicely equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity and automatic LED headlights. On the inside there is a 6-way adjustable cloth driver's seat, cruise control, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and an 8-inch infotainment system with 4 USB ports, plus Apple CarPlay/Android Auto/MirrorLink smartphone integration.
The SE trim adds passive entry, push-button start, a leather steering wheel, heated seats, 17-inch wheels, black exterior mirror caps, and V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces.
Stepping up to SEL trim buyers are treated to a BeatsAudio stereo system, a sunroof, 10-color interior ambient lighting, VW Digital Cockpit, wireless phone charging, a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, heated wiper jets, and a remote starter.
The GLI Autobahn features 18-inch alloy wheels, a power sunroof, push-button start, LED headlights, a 10.25-inch instrument display, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, driver seat memory, automatic dual-zone climate control, HD satellite radio with 9 premium speakers, an 8-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, wireless device charging, and 4 USB ports.
Standard and available safety features are plentiful on the Jetta, Volkswagen offers standard features for the S trim that include electronic stability control, engine brake-assist, front and side thorax airbags, curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring, and its Intelligent Crash Response System. Available features for higher trims include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, rear traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring.