2024 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Review

Picture of the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta

2024 Volkswagen
Jetta

MSRP*: $21,435 to $28,825
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Picture of the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

2024 Volkswagen
Jetta GLI

MSRP*: $28,085 to $32,585
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MPG - City 29 - 30 MPG 24 - 26 MPG
MPG - Hwy 40 - 42 MPG 35 - 36 MPG
Seating Capacity 5 seats 5 seats
Cargo Space Info not available Info not available
Engine
  • 158-hp, 1.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 228-hp, 2.0-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Automatic, Manual Automatic, Manual
Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive Front Wheel Drive
Horsepower 158 hp 228 hp
Exterior Length 186.5 in 186.9 in
Exterior Width 70.8 in 70.8 in
Leg Room Front 41.1 in
Rear 37.4 in
Front 41.1 in
Rear 37.4 in
Head Room Front 38.5 in
Rear 37.2 in
Front 37.9 - 38.5 in
Rear 37.2 in

*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.

Comparison Review

Comfort
The Volkswagen Jetta offers rear passengers about the same space to stretch out as the Volkswagen Jetta GLI with comparable rear head- and legroom in both vehicles. As far as headroom and legroom go, there's not much difference between the Volkswagen Jetta and the Volkswagen Jetta GLI in the front seats.

Convenience
The Volkswagen Jetta will require fewer stops at the gas station than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, making it more convenient to drive.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Based on MSRP, the Volkswagen Jetta is clearly a better financial choice over the Volkswagen Jetta GLI.

Dimensions
The Volkswagen Jetta is about the same width as the Volkswagen Jetta GLI. When looking at overall length, the Volkswagen Jetta takes up about the same amount of space in your garage as the Volkswagen Jetta GLI.

Handling
The Volkswagen Jetta has about the same turning radius as the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, allowing equal maneuverability in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Volkswagen Jetta is significantly less powerful than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI. The good news is that, reportedly, cars with lower horsepower engines often have lower insurance premiums.

Powertrain
The Volkswagen Jetta has much less torque than the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, which generally means that it won't feel as fast or powerful.

Utility
In terms of seating you'll be able to fit the same number of people in both the Volkswagen Jetta and the Volkswagen Jetta GLI.