More practical its hatchback sibling and equally fun to drive - 2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Review
0Overview
While the beloved Volkswagen Golf GTI has long lorded over its sedan counterpart, the 2020 Jetta GLI proves it's an equally athletic and more practical alternative. Sure, the sportiest Jetta lacks the visual appeal and upscale interior of its five-door sibling, but it does boast a larger back seat and trunk. Its 228-hp turbo four-cylinder engine is just as hasty, and both its manual and automatic transmissions are similarly engaging. The compact VW sedan also earns its performance cred with a delightful chassis that provides sharp responses and refined qualities. While the GTI may be the first pick for purists, the Jetta GLI's increased practicality and lower price tag have the power to change opinions and the goods to make our 2020 10Best list.
What's New for 2020?
For 2020, Volkswagen makes a few changes to the Jetta GLI. Every model gets the latest Car-Net infotainment software along with a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot. Last year's 35th Anniversary Edition is gone, but VW now gives the Autobahn trim level standard adaptive dampers and wireless charging. The Autobahn also can be fitted with the new Black package, which adds the hue to a set of 18-inch wheels, the side-view mirror caps, the roof, and the spoiler.
Even though it costs a bit more, the Autobahn model is the best representation of the 2020 Jetta GLI. In addition to exclusive features such as adaptive dampers and wireless charging, every Autobahn has an enhanced audio system, fully digital gauge cluster, larger touchscreen, leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, and ventilated front seats. All that equipment really improves the sedan's appeal, and none of it is available on the base model. However, the optional seven-speed automatic transmission is offered on both trim levels for an extra $800.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The GLI shares its engine with the Golf GTI: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is optional. Regardless of transmission, acceleration is significantly improved compared with the standard Jetta's 147-hp engine. In our testing, the automatic was slightly quicker from zero to 60 mph. The stick-shift version was easy to row; our only complaint with the automatic was its hesistance to downshift during spirited cornering. Speaking of corners, the GLI's specially tuned suspension and sticky summer tires (a no-cost option) proved this Jetta is just as athletic as its hatchback equivalent. In fact, the sedan actually outran both the Golf R and GTI at our most recent Lightning Lap—thanks largely to its upgraded rubber. Likewise, the Jetta GLI provides feelsome steering, strong brakes, and a compliant ride whether it's on the standard shocks or the adaptive dampers that are reserved for the top-tier Autobahn model.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Since the 2020 Jetta GLI shares its turbocharged four-cylinder with two different transmissions, it gets separate EPA fuel-economy ratings. The standard six-speed manual transmission is estimated to earn 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Models equipped with the optional seven-speed automatic can expect to see 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, according to the EPA. We tested a GLI with each gearbox on our 200-mile fuel-economy test route and both achieved an impressive 36 mpg on the highway.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
While the 2020 GLI has the same basic roomy cabin as the standard Jetta, a few bits of red trim spice things up somewhat. Even the base S model has features such customizable ambient interior lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and passive entry with push-button start. The snazzier Autobahn version adds a 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a power-adjustable driver's seat, panoramic sunroof, and ventilated front seats. The sportiest Jetta is also more spacious than its hatchback counterpart, with about two inches of extra legroom in the back seat. Likewise, the compact sedan has a massive trunk that managed to hold more carry-on bags (seven total) than the five we fit behind the Golf's rear seat.
Infotainment and Connectivity
With either a 6.5- or 8.0-inch touchscreen, every 2020 Jetta GLI has a user-friendly infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and two USB ports. The Autobahn model gets the larger screen along with a 400-watt, eight-speaker BeatsAudio sound system and wireless charging.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
View Crash Test Results
The 2020 Jetta GLI earned a five-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but only the regular VW Jetta has been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). While the GLI doesn't have all the modern driver-assistance technology, it does boast more standard equipment than direct rivals. Key safety