2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI review

1. Inspired performance 

A thrilling ride experience comes as standard with the 2019 Jetta GLI. The sole engine option is a turbocharged 2.0L engine, good for 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and paired to a six-speed manual, or seven-speed automatic transmission. From there, the ride performance is up to you. For elevated ride enjoyment, however, you might want to look for the 35th Anniversary trim, as you’ll get adaptive suspension for smooth rides and agile handling across all road conditions. 

2. Passenger comforts 

Treat yourself to this elegant sedan for relaxing drives with comforts close to hand. Sink into standard cloth-upholstered heated front seats, or choose the Autobahn trim for a leather-upholstery finish instead. A leather-wrapped sport steering wheel and 10-color customizable ambient interior lighting add an upscale touch to all three 2019 trims, while standard Climatronic^® dual-zone automatic climate control keeps your cabin interior pleasant, no matter what the temperature is outside. 

3. Exterior style 

If you’re shopping for a sedan with elegant street style, Volkswagen has made sure the 2019 Jetta GLI turns heads, from its redesigned chassis to its exterior paint options. Pick a model in one of the four available monochrome shades, or go all-out with a Tornado Red version. The honeycomb grille, red trim accent finishing, and available rear spoiler announce your arrival or departure with flair. Chrome dual exhaust tips and a low-riding rear diffuser complete your enviable road presence. 

4. Spacious utility 

For trips with family and friends, and the essentials they can’t live without, the 2019 Jetta GLI has a spacious interior with ample storage options. Legroom for even your tallest companions is particularly pleasing, with 41.1 inches up front and 37.4 inches to the rear. When your crew shows up with boxes and bags, the 2019 Jetta GLI has 14.1 cu-ft of trunk space, with a 60/40-split fold second row if large items need to get loaded up too. For small item storage, there are plenty of options, including large door cubbies. 

5. Advanced tech  

Volkswagen generously equipped the 2019 Jetta GLI with lots of standard tech for passenger enjoyment and driver assistance. For seamless smartphone connectivity on the move, the Jetta GLI has Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ integration across all trims. Each 2019 Jetta GLI has rear cross-traffic alert and a rearview camera to make parking a breeze. On top of this, there's also a forward collision warning system with automatic emergency braking.