The all-new Jetta GLI is back for 2019

Since its 1984 debut, the VW Jetta GLI has always combined irrepressible good looks and distinctive performance. Luckily for decades-long and newbie fans, that combination got a head-turning, sixth iteration update (and special 35^th Anniversary Edition), which debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in February.

Enthusiasm for an all-new GLI is warranted: With a 228-horsepower (achieved with premium fuel), turbocharged engine, and aggressive looks to match, the GLI is a hard bet to beat for drivers who seek a daily ear-to-ear grin and fun behind-the-wheel experience. Let’s let the GLI (and photos) speak for itself.

The 2019 GLI combines a lowered sports suspension with lower side skirts, which is the lowermost portion of the vehicle underneath the doors. Subtle changes add up to a GLI that looks lower and wider than the Jetta. The rear lip spoiler, rear diffuser, and chrome dual exhaust tips amplify its sporty intentions.

A more aggressive front fascia, lower lip spoiler, blacked-out window trim, and a red accent line across the honeycomb front grille easily distinguish the 2019 Jetta GLI from its sibling.

Slim lighting profiles, made possible by the use of LEDs, gives the GLI a streamlined profile.

A standard 2.0 TSI® turbocharged engine produces 228-horsepower (achieved with premium fuel) and 258 lb-ft of torque, put to the wheels through a sophisticated XDS® Cross Differential System with VAQ limited slip differential that helps to maintain optimum torque balance. These can be paired with a 6-speed manual or available 7-speed automatic transmission.

Peek closely at the brakes, and you’ll see the distinctive red — here on the front calipers — that defines much of the GLI look.

An available 10.25-inch high-resolution Digital Cockpit offers a unique experience for the driver.

TOP: Top-of-the-line comfort sport seats are standard; the Autobahn trim features leather-clad ventilated front seats that cool when the weather gets warm. Standard red contrasting stitching on the seats mimics the red accents throughout the interior.

BOTTOM: Every GLI comes with convenience-minded keyless entry with push-button start as standard.1 A 10-color ambient lighting system responds to the driving mode selection, or it can be customized manually. A 400-watt, eight speaker BeatsAudio® stereo system can crank up the excitement in the Autobahn trim. Paddle shifters, viewable in this photo, offer rapid shifting for the 7-speed DSG.

The 35^th Anniversary Edition features more exclusive badging on its flanks, as well as unique dark grey wheels, black mirrors, and a black roof. It also has standard DCC® adaptive chassis control, which allows the driver to adjust suspension and handling characteristics with the push of a button.

A standard blacked-out rear spoiler complements other accents, including the distinctive GLI 35^th Anniversary badge. (Not pictured) Special flags are stitched into the seats, front floor mats are embroidered with GLI35, and even the doorsills, backlit in red, mark the 35^th Anniversary Edition.

Check out more 2019 Jetta GLI photos and video.

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