New VW Jetta GLI to arrive with more powerful engine and independent rear suspension

Volkswagen is all set to commence sales of its 2019 Jetta at dealerships by the second quarter of 2018. Offering a bolder design, a roomier interior space and new technology, is out to prove itself more appealing than its predecessor. Nonetheless, there are customers who are already setting their eyes on the high performance of the sedan – the VW Jetta GLI.

The GLI version of the Jetta has been known to be performance-oriented, offering the sportiest drive and ride from the German carmaker’s sedan model. This is basically why some are patiently waiting for this version of the Jetta sedan. Apparently, the next iteration of the VW Jetta won’t disappoint, if people from Autoblog are to be believed.

According to Autoblog, citing a representative from VW, the new Jetta GLI won’t be equipped with the mill found inside the standard Jetta – a 1.4 liter turbocharged engine that delivers 147 hp (109 kW) of max output and 184 lb.-ft. (249 Nm) of peak torque.

Adopting this engine would mean that the new Jetta GLI would be less powerful than its predecessor, which is powered by 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivering 210 hp (156 kW) of output and 207 lb.-ft. (280 Nm) of torque.

Instead, the core of the next Jetta GLI will be a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine – probably the same unit found in the Golf GTI – that develops 220 hp (164 kW) of output and 258 lb.-ft. (349 Nm) of torque. As standard, this engine will be mated to six-speed manual transmission and an available DSG seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission.

Not many were pleased that the 2019 VW Jetta reverted back to a torsion-beam rear suspension. Thankfully, the Jetta GLI won't be following suit. According to Autoblog, the new Jetta GLI would be fitted a modern multi-link independent rear suspension.

The VW representative told Autoblog that the Jetta GLI would be available within this year, with a global debut possibly at the Los Angeles or Chicago auto shows.

But for those who can’t wait, the standard Jetta is on its way. Now underpinned by the MQB platform, the Jetta is expected to be expensive than the outgoing model. The 2019 VW Jetta will be available in S, SE, R-Line, SEL, and SEL Premium trim levels.

Jetta S will feature a standard six speed manual transmission, or an optional eight speed automatic gearbox. It also features 16-inch wheels, LED headlights and rear lights, and a 6.5-inch infotainment screen. The Jetta SE comes exclusive with an eight speed automatic transmission, and boasts of a dual zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, as well as heated front seats.

The Jetta R-Line trim meanwhile, boasts of a sportier look, as made by possible by 17-inch dark grey “Trenton” wheels, gloss black front grille, an R-Line rear bumper with dual exhaust tips, fog lights, and black mirror caps.

SEL trim, is equipped with several features like LED projector headlights and LED daytime running lights as well as rain sensing wipers and a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit display. The top-of-the-line SEL Premium, on the other hand, features 17-inch two-tone wheels, R-Line exterior elements, as well as sports seats and heating/cooling functions.