2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

The arrival of the all-new 2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI rounds out the Jetta family, offering the sportiest package in the range. The Jetta GLI boasts the award-winning 2.0L TSI turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine that sets the performance benchmark in the iconic Golf GTI. Generating 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, the GLI delivers impressive drivability and acceleration.

The Jetta GLI benefits from a track-tuned independent performance suspension that includes a multilink rear setup, re-tuned spring and damper settings and a 15-mm lower ride height. Volkswagen’s XDS® cross differential system that debuted on the GTI is standard on the Jetta GLI, helping prevent inside wheelspin during hard cornering.

The GLI features a more dynamic look than the regular Jetta, courtesy of a new honeycomb grille, a deeper front spoiler, and GTI-style vertical fog lamps and red-painted brake calipers. At the rear, there are smoked taillights and dual exhaust tips.

Like the exterior, the interior of the Jetta GLI stays true to its performance roots. Side-bolstered sport bucket seats feature bright-red stitching; there’s matching red stitching on the flat-bottom steering wheel; and aluminum pedals, shift knob, dash and door trim.

Wheel design is also important to performance enthusiasts, so the Jetta GLI offers striking 10-spoke 17-inch alloys as the standard wheel, wîth a wide-spoke 18-inch design for the GLI Autobahn model. A stunning 18-inch Motorsport Black rim is available as an option on all GLI models.

Available in three trim levels, the Jetta GLI has a starting MSRP of $23,495. The GLI Autobahn, wîth an MSRP of $25,545, adds 18-inch wheels, a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, heated V-Tex leatherette seats, and the must-hear Fender® Premium Audio System.