Volkswagen Jetta GLI 2021 Review Prices , and Pictures
10.0/10
Based on 1 reviewsMSRP range: $26,345 - $31,545
- Quick acceleration and strong braking performance
- Tidy and controlled handling for a small sedan
- Smooth ride
- Plenty of interior storage
- Cabin feels a bit plasticky compared to others in the class
- Lackluster base infotainment system
- New MIB3 infotainment system standard on Autobahn trim
- Adaptive cruise control and other driver safety aids standard on Autobahn
- Part of the seventh Jetta GLI generation introduced for 2019
Like VW's GTI hatchback, the 2021 Jetta GLI offers a great combination of performance and practicality at a relatively affordable price. Compared to a regular Jetta, you get a more powerful turbocharged engine, the choice of a manual or a dual-clutch automatic transmission, and a sport-tuned suspension. The GLI is a fun and quick small sedan, but it's also comfortable and easy to drive.
There are a few other small performance sedans around for 2021. A mainstay of the class, the Honda Civic Si, has been discontinued for 2021, but Hyundai has come out with a dramatically improved 2021 Elantra that's pretty compelling in its 201-horsepower N Line or 275-hp N guise. There's also the Mazda 3 sedan, which has a new 250-hp turbocharged engine on tap for this year. Should you get the Jetta GLI? Read our Expert Rating to get our in-depth take and help inform your buying decision.
Which Jetta GLI does MatoCar recommend?
Of the two trims, we suggest going with the Autobahn. Yes, the base S trim offers the same level of performance, but part of the Jetta GLI's appeal is its day-to-day usability. The Autobahn comes with way more features, and, for 2021, that includes a set of standard driver aids such as adaptive cruise control. If you live in warmer climates, we also suggest opting for the no-cost summer performance tires since they noticeably enhance the car's braking and handling performance.The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is available in just two trim levels: S and Autobahn. Both come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It's paired to either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (Volkswagen calls it DSG) that sends power to the front wheels. Feature highlights include:
S Comes fairly well equipped with:
- 18-inch alloy wheels (standard all-season or optional summer tires)
- Performance brakes
- Limited-slip differential for improved traction
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel (includes shift paddles with DSG transmission)
- Cloth upholstery
- Manually adjustable sport seats
- Heated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Keyless entry with push-button start
- Rain-sensing wipers
- 6.5-inch touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- Two USB ports
- Six-speaker audio system
- Forward collision warning with automatic braking (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
Autobahn The top-level Autobahn trim builds off the base trim. Performance remains the same, but you get additional features including:
- Adaptive suspension for improved ride and handling
- Panoramic sunroof
- Power-adjustable driver's seat
- Leather upholstery
- Ventilated front seats
- Remote start (DSG only)
- 8-inch touchscreen display with Volkswagen's latest infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wireless charging pad
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Volkswagen and the car in front)
- Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
- Automatic high beams
The Autobahn is available with two options:
- Summer tires
- Black package
- Black 18-inch wheels
- Black mirror caps, roof and spoiler
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