The go-faster story of the Volkswagen Jetta GLI

New GLI continues the four-door fun

With more than four decades of history behind it, the Jetta GLI is an important model for the Volkswagen brand.

For 2025, the GLI has been updated both outside and in, with fresh styling and updated technology.

As one of the best-selling Volkswagen models in North America, the Jetta clearly has a reputation to uphold. Join us for a look at its story so far.

1979 Volkswagen Jetta

Designed to appeal to the American market, the first Jetta was launched in 1979. Known as ‘Hummel’ (German for ‘bumblebee’) during development, the Jetta name was derived from the Atlantic jet stream wind.

Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, who also designed the original VW Golf, the Jetta was offered in both two and four-door sedan versions. All that extra metal at the rear meant considerably more trunk space compared to the hatchback Golf, while interiors were intended to be more upmarket.

1980 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Offered in Europe from 1980 onwards, the GLI became the range-topping model. Power came from the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine also used in the Golf GTI, serving up 108 horsepower.

With the Jetta proving a sales hit in the United States, Volkswagen finally introduced a GLI version for the final model year of the Mk1 Jetta in 1984. A 90 horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine was matched with a five-speed manual gearbox, along with uprated suspension.

It would mark the start of a four-decade success story.

1984 Volkswagen Jetta GT

As the Golf moved to a second-generation platform in 1983, the Jetta followed a year later in 1984. The two- and four-door body options remained, while engine choices became more diverse.

Performance versions were available from the outset in European markets, with the Jetta GT on sale from launch. Initially, the GT made use of the 110 horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine from the Golf GTI. The extra weight from its larger body meant the Jetta was around a second slower to 60 mph than the Golf.

North American sales started in 1985, with the GLI now endowed with 100 horsepower.

1987 Volkswagen Jetta GTI 16v

With the 1980s European hot hatch war in full swing, the quick Jetta gained a new name and bigger engine in 1986. With the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from the Golf, the European Jetta GTI 16v now packed a considerable 134 horsepower.

Even with greater performance, in the European market the Jetta always played the underdog role against the popular Golf. However, the US-market recognized this package of practicality and affordability, with the Mk2 Jetta helping save the Volkswagen brand in North America.

1990 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 16v Wolfsburg Edition

Proving how important the Jetta was to the North American market, a Wolfsburg Edition option package was launched in 1989. Initially planned as a limited run of 1,500 cars, the chance to spec the Wolfsburg option continued until 1991.

In 1990, the Jetta GLI was now using the 134 horsepower 2.0-liter 16v engine. Opting for the Wolfsburg Edition meant 15-inch BBS alloy wheels, velour Recaro seats and special exterior badging.

1992 Volkswagen Jetta VR6

A new third-generation Golf also meant a new edition of the hatchback’s more practical cousin. In European markets, the Jetta name was replaced with Vento badging – another wind-inspired name.

America retained the now-much-loved Jetta badge, but production delays meant US sales would not begin until 1993.

Bigger, and packed with extra safety equipment to meet new regulations, the third-generation Jetta became noticeably bulkier than its predecessors. At least there was plenty of room for all your junk in that bootylicious trunk.

1992 Volkswagen Jetta VR6

In North America, the GLI badge took a sabbatical during the third-generation Jetta’s lifetime. Instead, range-topping VR6 versions were branded as ‘GLX’ models, featuring the sonorous 2.8-liter VR6 engine producing 172 horsepower.

Focussing on sophistication, along with a 0-60 mph time of 7.7 seconds, the Jetta GLX proved popular. In fact, the third-generation Jetta became Volkswagen’s best-selling car in the American market.

1999 Volkswagen Bora V5

By the late 1990s, the Volkswagen Group had big plans for world domination. It also meant a push to move the Volkswagen brand itself to a more premium position. Platform sharing came to the fore, and the compact Golf-based sedan gained another new wind-based name for European buyers.

A winter wind that blows across the Adriatic, the Bora was never going to win awards for exciting exterior design. At least the interior featured Volkswagen’s classy blue backlighting, while performance in early European models came from a curious 2.3-liter five-cylinder petrol engine.

2000 Volkswagen Bora V6 4Motion

With the European Bora destined to receive virtually every powertrain the Golf got, in 2000 this meant the return of the 2.8-liter VR6 engine. Now it had 201 horsepower, and was mated to a 4Motion four-wheel-drive system.

The V6 Bora was still more about junior executive cruising than outright performance, with an interior finished with wood trim and leather seats.

2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6

In North America, the GLI model finally made a return to Volkswagen showrooms in 2002.

As with the European Bora, quick Jettas meant the need for multiple cylinders. The 2.8-liter VR6 engine continued to serve, producing 177 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. US customers were denied the 4Motion 4WD system offered on the Bora, however.

2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 1.8T

Not even the US-spec Jetta could avoid the pull of Volkswagen’s ubiquitous 1.8-liter turbocharged engine. In 2004, this meant a choice of GLI versions – the traditional V6, now with 197 horsepower, or the 1.8T with 177 horsepower.

Although the VR6 option was more powerful from the factory, the huge tuning market for the 1.8 Turbo meant it became the engine of choice for enthusiasts. ECU remaps, bigger turbochargers and other modifications could easily push output to over 300 horsepower.

2005 Volkswagen Jetta Sport

Reflecting the importance of the Jetta to America, the fifth-generation car debuted at the 2005 LA Auto Show. It also went on sale in North America ahead of any other markets, with major investment in Volkswagen’s factory in Puebla, Mexico.

The Jetta name made a return to Europe, with Volkswagen seemingly having run out of new wind-based naming options. With a front end strongly resembling the Mk5 Golf, albeit with extra chrome, the halogen headlights even featured tiny VW symbols covering the bulbs.

2005 Volkswagen Jetta R GT Concept

Previous Jetta models had found popularity with the American tuning scene – and the original Fast and the Furious movie had even featured a Mk3 VR6 Jetta. So Volkswagen chased the modifying subculture with the Mk5 Jetta.

Appearing at the 2005 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the Jetta R GT was meant to envisage what was possible with the new sedan. With a 550 horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.2-liter V-6 engine, the R GT was as genuinely fast as the bespoke bodykit made it look.

2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

North American Jetta fans did not have to wait long for a true performance version, with the GLI appearing in 2006.

Looking much like a Mk5 GTI, but with a huge trunk grafted onto the rear, the Jetta GLI made a serious effort at being a fast sedan. Its bodykit mimicked the Golf, even down to the red trim in the honeycomb grille, and the distinctive ‘Monza’ alloy wheels also made an appearance.

2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Under the hood was the same 2.0-liter TFSI petrol engine as the Golf GTI, producing 197 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual gearbox was standard, with a DSG dual-clutch auto optional.

European buyers were denied the full-fat GLI, but did at least get a ‘Sport’ trimmed car powered by the same 2.0-liter TFSI engine. Customers on that side of the Atlantic were more interested in buying diesel Jettas, however.

2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition

Despite the popularity of the GLI, Volkswagen was also trying to win over American consumers to the idea of ‘clean diesel’. This was before the Jetta TDI would become one of the cars implicated in the ‘dieselgate’ scandal.

Between 2008 and 2010, Volkswagen ran a single-make championship, using a field of 2.0-liter TDI-powered Jetta racers.

To celebrate the success of the TDI Cup, Volkswagen USA produced 1,500 TDI Cup Street Editions. These wore a special bodykit, external graphics and 18-inch alloy wheels.

2011 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

The sixth-generation Jetta ditched any family resemblance to the Golf, and started out on a separate path towards North American success. While Europe and other markets ditched sedans in favor of SUVs and crossovers, the compact four-door would continue unabated in the US and Canada.

Subtler than the previous Jetta GLI, the Mk6 used a 200 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, with the choice of six-speed manual or DSG dual-clutch gearboxes. Independent rear suspension was retained for the GLI, unlike on lesser Jettas.

2014 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Edition 30

Although the rest of the world might have forgotten about the Jetta GLI, in North America the quick four-door celebrated an anniversary in 2014. Marking 30 years since the original 90 horsepower Jetta GLI had hit the market, Volkswagen introduced a commemorative edition.

Red trim was back on the honeycomb front grille, with 18-inch alloy wheels beefing up the exterior. Inside was a riot of leather trim, red stitching, carbon fiber details and special Edition 30 badging.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Momo Edition

Perhaps to divert attention away from the dieselgate scandal, Volkswagen displayed an impressive modified Jetta GLI at the 2016 SEMA Show. Slammed to the ground on adjustable coilover suspension, and wearing 19-inch alloy wheels, the tuning makeover was by Italian aftermarket firm Momo.

Sadly, the Momo Edition was just a one-off show car, albeit one meant to demonstrate what the Jetta could achieve. Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, the Jetta was slowly being removed from model ranges in Europe.

2017 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Nardo Concept

As part of the European-inspired Enthusiast Vehicle Fleet, Volkswagen turned its attention to the Jetta GLI in 2017. The choice of exterior color was taken from the popular Audi Nardo Grey, with a vinyl wrap used instead of repainting the bodywork.

Volkswagen also added various sets of HRE alloy wheels, alternating the designs throughout the show season. Performance suspension parts from H&R, along with new tires from BF Goodrich, completed the transformation.

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Following the launch of the seventh-generation Jetta in 2018, Volkswagen USA unveiled the all-new Jetta GLI at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show.

As the most powerful production Jetta GLI yet, the 2.0-liter TSI engine produces 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A limited-slip differential is standard, as is a six-speed manual gearbox. Large 18-inch alloy wheels, aggressively designed bumpers and lowered suspension give it a serious stance.

European enthusiasts would have no option to buy the GLI, or any version of the new Jetta.

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary Edition

The launch of the new seventh-generation Jetta coincided with the 35th anniversary of the GLI being launched in North America. This was an opportunity too good to miss, with Volkswagen including the Anniversary Edition in the 2019 model range.

Key upgrades included 18-inch wheels with red trim accents, a black finish for the roof, mirror caps and rear spoiler, plus special 35th Anniversary Edition badging. Volkswagen even added the DCC adaptive damping system, making the price jump from the base model seem good value.

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Super Touring Concept

Super Touring racing from the 1990s provided the inspiration for the Jetta GLI on the 2019 Volkswagen Enthusiast Vehicle Fleet. Helping channel the motorsport vibe was a set of brand-new 19-inch wheels made by Fifteen52. They had the look of a classic touring car racer.

Completing the image change was coilover suspension from K&W, slammed as close to the ground as possible. Bigger brakes and a new rear spoiler were also fitted.

2021 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Blue Lagoon

Retro was in again for the 2021 Enthusiast Vehicle Fleet, with the Blue Lagoon Jetta GLI a reminder of the Mk4 model released in 2004. For a short period of time, the 2004 Jetta GLI could be ordered with Blue Lagoon paintwork, until the option was replaced with Jazz Blue.

Those early cars have become desirable to enthusiasts. This led Volkswagen to completely wrap a new 2021 Jetta GLI in Lagoon Blue vinyl, with numerous suppliers consulted to find the perfect shade. The wrap was applied throughout the car, meaning the blue shows up even when the doors are opened.

Inside are a pair of vintage-looking Recaro Ergomed ES sports seats. A Black Forest Industries weighted golf ball gear knob completes the interior modifications.

Other changes include a set of 20-inch BBS CH-R alloy wheels and H&R lowering springs.

2022 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Thoroughly updated for the 2022 model year, the Jetta GLI gained a set of new front and rear bumpers. Unique to the GLI is a revised front grille, with the trademark red stripe surrounded by chrome trim.

The lower fascia benefits from black honeycomb trim, with redesigned air intakes also found in the front bumper.

LED projector headlights are standard equipment for the GLI, with LED daytime running lights included, too.

2022 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Under the hood, the 2.0-liter TSI four-cylinder engine remained unchanged in terms of output. This means the same 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a six-speed manual transmission remaining standard.

A seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission is available, with all GLI models using the ​​VAQ electronically-controlled torque-sensing limited-slip differential.

A new, more aggressive, rear bumper design features honeycomb mesh detailing. The GLI comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, with two optional black-wheel packages available.

2022 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Inside, the 2022 Jetta GLI has an impressive 10-inch Digital Cockpit Pro dashboard, with Volkswagen’s MIB3 infotainment system. Wireless charging for smartphones is included, with in-car WiFi also on offer.

A new leather-wrapped GLI-badged steering wheel features red detailing, while the seats are finished in perforated leather. The front seats are both heated and ventilated in the GLI, with keyless entry and automatic climate control fitted, too.

2022 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Performance Concept

For the 2022 SEMA Show, Volkswagen unveiled a highly modified example of the Jetta GLI. Branded the Performance Concept, the Volkswagen Design Center in California was apparently inspired by classic touring car racers.

Built on a Jetta GLI Autobahn model, the Performance Concept features flared front and rear fenders that are almost an inch wider than the standard car’s. A custom front bumper boasts larger air intakes, with bolder side skirts and a dramatic rear valance.

A hexagon-themed matte black vinyl wrap was applied over the factory Kings Red paint.

2022 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Performance Concept

At the rear, the GLI Performance Concept exhales through a new twin-exit performance exhaust. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine received an upgrade from RacingLine, with a larger turbocharger pushing output to 350 horsepower and 372 lb-ft of torque.

A TrackSport coilover suspension kit dropped the Performance Concept closer to the ground, with a perfect stance around the 20-inch Rotiform alloy wheels. These are clad with custom Aerodisc covers.

Helping stop the Jetta was a Stage 3+ big brake kit from RacingLine. This combines six-piston calipers with huge 15-inch carbon-ceramic brake discs.

2022 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Performance Concept

Inside, Volkswagen gave the GLI Performance Concept a pair of classic Recaro Pole Position ABE bucket seats.

These featured integrated headrests and prominent bolsters, and were finished in a bespoke ‘Texagon’ upholstery, matched to the exterior vinyl design.

2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition

For the 2024 model year, a special 40th Anniversary Edition of the Volkswagen Jetta GLI was offered solely for the North American market.

Buyers had a choice of Pure Gray, Pure White or Rising Blue exterior paint colors. Blackout detailing was applied to the front grille and window surrounds, although there is still plenty of GLI red trim.

Gloss black is also used for the 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, mirror caps, door handles and rear spoiler.

2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition

Volkswagen ensured this celebratory Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary model stood out on the inside, too.

Bespoke ‘embossed molecular’ cloth seats feature a unique design for each of the 1,984 cars. There are also engraved cup holders, with the GLI logo inside one and ‘1984’ in the other.

There are also ‘GLI 40’ seat tags, special door sill covers and a steering wheel with a small ‘40’ badge at the bottom.

2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition

Linking this special edition to the first model year of the Jetta GLI, Volkswagen announced a production run of 1,984 cars. Each was based on the Jetta GLI Autobahn sedan.

Under the hood is the familiar 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A sports exhaust, Dynamic Chassis Control and an electronically controlled torque-sensing limited-slip differential were fitted for good measure.

Prices for the Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition started at $28,085 for the  six-speed manual, or $28,885 for the seven-speed DSG automatic version.

2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

For the 2025 model year, Volkswagen has revealed an updated Jetta sedan. And that means a new GLI version making its debut, too.

At the front, a new bumper features a traditional black honeycomb design, with full-width red trim included. A GLI badge on the front grille marks out the top model in the Jetta range.

Gloss black trim is used for the window surrounds, with black mirror caps available as part of an optional Black Package.

2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

At the rear, the GLI comes with a honeycomb-effect diffuser, plus dual-exit exhaust tailpipes that are larger than on the regular Jetta. A redesigned LED light bar incorporates a GLI badge, too.

The GLI wears machined 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, with gloss black items on the options list.

Two new paint colors, Monterey Blue Pearl and Monument Gray, have been added to the existing choices of Pure White, Deep Black and Kings Red Metallic.

2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

On the inside, the updated dashboard includes a floating 8.0-inch infotainment screen, with touch-sensitive climate control included. There is also a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel.

Contrasting red stitching features prominently throughout the cabin, appearing on the sports seats, dashboard, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel.

A Beats Audio sound system is standard, along with stainless steel pedal caps, illuminated scuff plates, and 10-color ambient lighting.

2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Under the Jetta’s redesigned hood, the same turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine remains. For 2025, it continues to produce 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.

The Jetta GLI remains one of the few cars available in North America with the option of a six-speed manual transmission. Although a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission is on the options list, enthusiasts will doubtless be drawn to the three-pedal GLI.

Perhaps inevitably, prices for the updated 2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI have increased – now starting from $32,715.