The sportiest Jetta is about to get even sportier!
Hot on the heels of the launch of the all-new 2019 Jetta, Volkswagen is reportedly preparing a hotter version based on the GTI hot hatch. The 2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is expected to launch within a year the newly released Jetta, and it sounds like it will be well worth the wait. The two key changes between the Jetta and GLI will be the suspension and the engine.
Under the hood, the Jetta GLI will use the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as the current GTI, which has an output of 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This is a significant increase for the GLI up from 210 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. Not surprisingly, the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI will pair this engine to either a six-speed manual gearbox or VW's seven-speed, dual-clutch DSG automatic transmission.
Perhaps even more important than the engine, the next-gen Jetta GLI will get a sportier suspension borrowed from the Golf. The 2019 Jetta aimed for a softer ride with a torsion-beam rear axle, but the GLI will reportedly get a multi-link independent rear suspension for improved handling.
Of course, the new Jetta GLI will also get its fair share of styling upgrades building on the aggressive-looking Jetta R-Line. This trim level is a styling package with unique bumpers and wheels, and a stylish interior to match.
There's no official word as to when the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, but we could see it as early as this November at the 2018 L.A. Auto Show. When it goes on sale next year, it should be the most expensive Jetta model priced above the $26,945 Jetta SEL Premium perhaps closer to the $30,000 mark.
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