The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition is a special model commemorating four decades of VW's sporty compact sedan. But is it just a cosmetic package, or does it offer something more? We got behind the wheel of this limited-edition Jetta to find out.
What's New for 2024?
The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition is based on the regular Jetta GLI, which gets a mid-cycle refresh for 2024. The updates include a revised front fascia with a honeycomb grille, LED headlights, and a more aggressive bumper. The rear end also gets new LED taillights, a diffuser, and dual chrome exhaust tips. The Jetta GLI features a new steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, a larger touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and ambient lighting.
The 40th Anniversary Edition adds some exclusive touches to the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, such as black mirror caps, a black roof, a black spoiler, black 18-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and special badges on the fenders and trunk lid. The interior also gets some unique details, such as red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, shifter, floor mats, and a numbered plaque on the dashboard.
How Does It Drive?
The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition is powered by the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque as the regular Jetta GLI. The engine can be paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. We drove the latter, which shifts quickly and smoothly in most situations.
The Jetta GLI is a fun-to-drive car that offers plenty of performance for its class. The engine delivers strong acceleration and a satisfying growl, while the suspension provides a good balance between comfort and handling. The steering is precise and responsive, and the brakes are powerful and easy to modulate. The Jetta GLI also comes with a limited-slip differential and an adaptive damping system that lets you choose between four driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Custom.
The 40th Anniversary Edition mostly stays the same in terms of driving dynamics, but it does add some visual flair and exclusivity to the Jetta GLI. The black accents contrast nicely with the available colors (Pure White, Deep Black Pearl Effect, or Tornado Red), while the red stitching adds some sportiness to the cabin. The numbered plaque also reminds you that you're driving one of only 1,000 units made for the U.S. market.
How Does It Compare?
The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition competes with other sporty compact sedans such as the Honda Civic Si, Hyundai Elantra N Line, Mazda3 Turbo, and Subaru WRX. The Jetta GLI has some advantages over its rivals, such as its spacious interior, large trunk, standard digital cockpit, wireless smartphone integration, and available ventilated seats. It also has a lower starting price than most of its competitors ($28,745 for the manual or $29,545 for the automatic), although adding options can quickly increase that figure.
However, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI also has some drawbacks compared to its peers. For instance, it doesn't offer all-wheel drives like the Mazda3 Turbo or the Subaru WRX, which can enhance traction and stability in slippery conditions. It also doesn't have as much power or torque as some of its rivals, such as the Mazda3 Turbo (250 hp and 320 lb-ft) or the Subaru WRX (268 hp and 258 lb-ft). Moreover, it doesn't have as much personality or character as some of its competitors, such as the Honda Civic Si or the Hyundai Elantra N Line, which have more distinctive styling and features.
Is It Worth It?
The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition is a worthy celebration of the Jetta GLI's 40-year history. It offers a solid combination of performance, practicality, technology, and value, as well as some exclusive touches that make it stand out from the crowd. If you're looking for a sporty compact sedan that can do it all, the Jetta GLI is a great choice. And if you want to own a piece of VW history, the 40th Anniversary Edition is a rare opportunity to do so. But hurry up because only 1,000 units will be available in the U.S., and they're expected to sell out fast. @via Gerane.
- Add new comment
- 80 views
