The Volkswagen Jetta, since its introduction in 1979, has often been playfully referred to as “a Rabbit with a trunk,” highlighting its close relationship to the Golf. But does this lighthearted comparison still hold true, especially when we look at the sporty 2020 Volkswagen Jetta Gli?
When examining the specifications, the similarities are undeniable. The Jetta GLI and the iconic Volkswagen GTI share the Volkswagen Group’s versatile MQB platform. Both are powered by a potent 228-horsepower, turbocharged inline-four engine. Furthermore, both offer the choice between a slick six-speed manual transmission for purists or a rapid-shifting seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission for those seeking ultimate performance.
So, what truly differentiates these two Volkswagen siblings? According to the numbers, the Jetta GLI—the performance-oriented variant of the standard Jetta—features slightly smaller rear brake discs. Additionally, the GTI boasts a weight advantage of approximately 100 pounds, primarily due to its hatchback design eliminating the traditional trunk. But how do these differences translate into real-world driving dynamics and overall experience? Let’s delve deeper to uncover the answer.
Side view of a red 2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI parked on an asphalt road, showcasing its sporty sedan profile.
Staff Perspectives on the 2020 Jetta GLI
JG Pasterjak, Tech Editor & Production Manager:
If you’re curious about my impression of the Jetta GLI, imagine reading my review of the GTI and then dialing back the enthusiasm by about 10%. That essentially sums up the Jetta GLI experience in relation to the GTI. On its own merits, the Jetta GLI emerges as a remarkably capable sports sedan, boasting a fantastic engine and a well-tuned chassis. However, when viewed through the lens of the GTI—with which it shares fundamental components like the chassis, engine, brakes, differential, and overall tuning philosophy—the Jetta GLI seems to fall slightly short of the GTI’s exceptional synergy.
This isn’t to diminish the Jetta GLI, as it is undeniably an impressive vehicle. The slightly taller 55-series tires (compared to the GTI’s 50-series) result in a marginally less direct steering response but also contribute to a less jarring ride over imperfect road surfaces. The seats, while perhaps a tad less aggressively bolstered than the GTI’s, offer enhanced ease of entry and exit. In essence, the Jetta GLI excels in many areas, yet the GTI’s overall brilliance subtly overshadows it.
Interestingly, our Jetta GLI test vehicle was equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, contrasting with the DSG (dual-clutch) transmission in our GTI test car. While the Jetta GLI’s manual gearbox is commendable by modern standards, the DSG in the GTI proved equally engaging and arguably more performance-oriented. While the automotive world often mourns the decline of the manual transmission, the existence of superior alternatives like the DSG raises the question of whether that lamentation is truly justified in all cases.
To be clear, this isn’t intended as a criticism of the Jetta GLI, which remains an objectively outstanding car. Similar to the GTI, it delivers a genuinely premium driving experience at a relatively accessible price point within the realm of German performance sedans. The 228 horsepower engine—which, like the GTI, feels deceptively underrated—along with world-class braking power and feel, are just as prominent in the Jetta GLI as they are in the GTI. The Jetta GLI also gains an advantage in trunk space, although it sacrifices some cargo area height compared to the GTI’s hatchback. While rear-seat legroom appears comparable in both models, the Jetta GLI offers slightly reduced rear headroom due to its traditional sedan roofline compared to the GTI’s more upright hatchback design.
In conclusion, the Jetta GLI is a truly excellent car, perhaps only eclipsed by another exceptional vehicle residing within the same Volkswagen showroom.
Front three-quarter view of a blue 2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI parked outdoors, highlighting its front grille and headlights.
Chris Tropea, Associate Editor:
I approached the Jetta GLI with high expectations, given its on-paper similarities to the beloved GTI. A 228-horsepower sedan equipped with a manual transmission and inheriting DNA from one of the most celebrated hot hatches seemed like a formula for automotive perfection. However, the GLI, while competent, left me desiring a bit more of that GTI magic. While the GTI exudes a playful and sporty character suitable for daily driving enjoyment, the GLI conveyed more of a sense of a standard sedan that Volkswagen had enhanced with performance-oriented components.
This isn’t necessarily a negative assessment, as the GLI is undeniably a refined and well-executed car with impressive performance capabilities. The manual transmission offered smooth shifts and an engaging driving experience. Furthermore, it surprised me with several premium features not typically expected in this segment, such as ventilated seats, a fully digital instrument cluster, and a premium BeatsAudio sound system. The Jetta GLI even shares the same performance-enhancing limited-slip differential and robust brakes found in the GTI. However, the interior materials in the Jetta GLI lacked the same level of premium tactile feel present in the GTI’s cabin.
One unexpected highlight of the Jetta GLI was its remarkable spaciousness. The trunk provided significantly more cargo capacity than the area behind the rear seats in the five-door GTI. Additionally, the rear seats offered slightly more legroom, making the Jetta GLI marginally more practical than its hatchback sibling.
If you are in the market for a sporty sedan with the engaging option of a manual transmission, the 2020 Jetta GLI definitely warrants a spot on your test drive list.
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