Volkswagen Jetta GLI comes into focus

5 years, 1 month ago - 6 February 2019, Autoblog
Volkswagen Jetta GLI comes into focus
It debuts at the Chicago Auto Show

Volkswagen is set to show the Jetta GLI at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show later this week, but is a debut even a debut without a teaser? Just days before the full unveil, VW dropped a small GIF of the front of the GLI going in and out of focus on its Twitter.

The teaser doesn't provide anything new other than a first look at the grille. In addition to the flat, horizontal bars we see on the lower-trimmed economy Jettas, the GLI will be characterized by a sort of flattened honeycomb look. It also has the red accent stripe seen on many of Volkswagen's performance vehicles.

The caption on the teaser reads, "body of a sedan, <3 of a GTI," and from previous discussions with VW reps, we have reason to believe the claim is not a major overstatement. When discussions of the upcoming GLI first surfaced, we learned that the performance model will replace the stock torsion-beam rear suspension with a multi-link independent rear like the Golf. It will also likely use the same engine as the Golf GTI, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque (with premium fuel). We also believe it will have the option of a six-speed manual.

Nothing is official until the car debuts, but the signs are pointing in the right direction for a properly fun sedan. Full photos and information will be available later this week.

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