2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Price Range: $16,498 - $28,789

Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn Sedan Exterior

Good

There's still a lot to like about the 2023 Jetta GLI. It's comfortable and spacious and includes plenty of standard creature comforts, in-car tech and driver aids. But if you're hoping the GLI would simply be a Golf GTI with a trunk rather than a hatch, you'll likely be disappointed. While it's still sporty and quick, it's not quite as nimble, capable or, frankly, as entertaining to drive as other compact performance cars.

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Average price: $26,399

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Appraise My Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Pros

Surprisingly efficient powertrain
Roomy and quiet interior
Comfortable seats and ride
Plenty of interior storage and a big trunk

Cons

Cheap cabin materials
Less entertaining to drive than some competitors
Doesn't look or feel very special

What's new

Complimentary five-year Car-Net Safe & Secure plan (arrives midyear)
No other changes to the Jetta GLI
Part of the seventh Jetta generation introduced for 2019

Overview

Written by automotive expert Christian Wardlaw

5/1/2023

Are you a member of the sport-compact-car faithful and seeking a fun four-door sedan that won't break your budget? The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is one of the few that remain available, though in some ways it is a shadow of its former self.

Volkswagen bases the GLI on the current-generation Jetta, which means, unlike in the past, it is completely unrelated to the hotter Golf GTI. Nevertheless, VW fits the Jetta GLI with a more powerful turbocharged engine, a limited-slip differential to enhance traction when accelerating, a sport-tuned adaptive suspension and larger brakes. The GLI also swaps the Jetta's torsion-beam rear suspension for a more sophisticated multi-link setup that improves the car's cornering stability. The result is a decent choice for people who don't want to drive a regular compact sedan and prefer something that packs extra power and is sporty-looking and more fun to drive.

After a freshening for the 2022 model year, the 2023 Jetta GLI carries on without changes. However, VW is rolling out a complimentary five-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure connected services, which should be active by the summer of 2023. The sport sedan comes in a single trim level with a handful of options, but Volkswagen's approach also makes the GLI more expensive than several rivals.

Still, the VW Jetta GLI slots into a gap in the sport compact sedan market. It offers more power and equipment than alternatives like the Honda Civic Si and Kia Forte GT, and it provides value compared to similarly equipped but more sporting competitors such as the Hyundai Elantra N and Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo. With its generous passenger room, large trunk, stealthy looks and German driving dynamics, you may find the Jetta GLI just right. Learn more by reading the full Edmunds Expert Rating below.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Good

7.7

out of 10

We drove the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

7/10

How does the Jetta GLI drive? The GLI is heavier and less powerful than VW's GTI, as well as sedans like the Hyundai Elantra N, Subaru WRX and Honda Civic Si. The GLI's 0-60 mph time of 7.1 seconds sits near the bottom of the class, too, and that's with the quick-shifting dual-clutch automatic. Manual-equipped models will be even slower. The transmission can be lazy to downshift to pass on the street or highway. We used the shift paddles more than usual. Braking is not up to the standards set by some of the class leaders. The brake pedal required more effort than we would like and the brakes faded more quickly compared to other sport sedans.

One of the main causes for poor braking figures is the standard all-season tires. These tires hurt handling and steering too. Neither is bad. The steering is quick and weighted well, but it lacks feedback. The standard adaptive dampers do an effective job of controlling body roll, but the tires give up before the chassis reaches its limit. They simply don't have the grip of summer tires, even with the standard electronic limited-slip differential managing traction.

Comfort

8.5/10

How comfortable is the Jetta GLI? The GLI is one of the more refined sport compacts on the market. Its adaptive dampers do a lot of the work here. There's a distinct difference between the Sport and Comfort suspension, though even the stiffest setting won't break your back. The well-padded seats help too. There's not a ton of adjustment, but they provide plenty of lateral support. They have a sporty shape that doesn't feel too confining. The GLI is quiet on the road, with only a mild amount of wind noise on the highway. The exhaust has a bit of a growl, but it doesn't roar as loudly as other compacts.

The climate control system is fairly straightforward, with dedicated buttons and knobs for temperature, fan adjustment and more. The controls are mounted a bit low on the center stack, but they're still easy to reach. The standard heated and cooled seats work well, and the automatic climate control operates quickly and evenly without being overly loud. Unfortunately, the GLI doesn't have vents for rear occupants, a bit of an oversight in a modern sedan.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? Despite the label, you really shouldn't think of the GLI as a compact car. There's room inside for adults to be satisfied in both rows. The rear offers sufficient headroom and legroom, at least in the outboard positions; the center seat is best for smaller occupants only. The seats themselves are comfortable too. The front is well padded and supportive, with sporty thigh and back bolstering that holds you in place without feeling too confining. The rear isn't quite as soft, but it's angled well and has some moderate bolstering. The driving position feels comfortable but sporty, with the seat and steering wheel offering an adequate degree of adjustment.

The driving position affords functional outward visibility. The mirrors are large, and the upright windows help reduce blind spots. The GLI uses Volkswagen's older infotainment system. It's fairly straightforward and easy to navigate, with clear labels and intuitive menus.

Technology

7.5/10

How’s the tech? The Jetta GLI uses an older version of Volkswagen's infotainment and navigation system, but there's still a lot to like. The map is smaller and lower-resolution than some rivals, but it gets the job done. And if you don't like the built-in navigation, the GLI comes standard with wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, something not all rivals can claim. There's a wireless charging pad and three USB-C ports in the car, but none are located conveniently for rear passengers. We occasionally had some audio issues with CarPlay, though the issue was intermittent. All GLIs come with a Beats audio system, and we think it's one of the better ones you can get in a compact car these days.

The GLI also comes standard with a number of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning. What's here works well (though the capacitive-touch steering wheel controls aren't as good as real buttons), and it's nice to have both a manual transmission and adaptive cruise control.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? While it's not quite as cleverly designed as the Honda Civic, the Jetta GLI offers cargo space and interior storage that's on par with most sedans in this class. Its 14.1 cubic feet of trunk space is only slightly less than the Honda Civic Si and Hyundai Elantra N offer. The trunk is relatively wide and deep, though we wish the trunk arms didn't impede so much into the cargo area. If you need more space, the rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split. In the cabin, you'll find functional door pockets that are large enough to hold more than just a water bottle. The wireless charging pad is located in front of the shifter and can be used for sunglasses or other small items.

Fuel Economy

8.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The GLI has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 30 mpg combined (26 city/37 highway) with the manual transmission and 30 mpg combined (26 city/36 highway) with the dual-clutch transmission. That's as good as or better than nearly every rival. Even better, we saw an impressive 33.4 mpg with the dual-clutch transmission on our 115-mile evaluation route, so we feel confident the GLI will hit its numbers.

Value

8/10

Is the Jetta GLI a good value? The Jetta GLI starts in the low $30,000s when equipped with a manual transmission; opting for the dual-clutch automatic raises the price by a few hundred dollars. That's a higher base price than most of its rivals, but the GLI only comes in a single, well-equipped trim level with all the bells and whistles, so you do get a lot for your money. Everything from leather upholstery to the adaptive suspension is standard equipment. It's not the most powerful model at this price, but it's one of the best equipped.

Volkswagen includes a four-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty for the GLI. That's about average for this class. The automaker also includes three years/36,000 miles of roadside assistance and two years/24,000 miles of scheduled maintenance.

Wildcard

7/10

The GLI has a handful of design changes that help set it apart from the standard Volkswagen Jetta. The front and rear bumpers feature a sportier design with larger intakes. There are red accents across both the inside and outside of the car, a theme shared with the Volkswagen GTI. The wheels are larger, and the side panels have some extra bodywork that helps it look even closer to the ground. The problem is that it still doesn't look all that different from the base Jetta. That's cool if you want a sleeper, but it doesn't feel all that special.

The somewhat reserved personality would be easier to swallow if the GLI was a bit more fun to drive. It's quick and handles well, but so does everything in this class. It's simply not as quick and doesn't handle quite as well as its rivals. Better tires will help, but it won't be enough to drastically change the fun factor.

For sale near Ashburn, VA

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2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Autobahn Sedan
$16,498
great price
$3,696 below market
- 91,954 miles
- 26 City / 36 Hwy MPG
- 4 mi away
- Free home delivery*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Sterling, VA
CarFax No Accidents Reported, CarFax 1-Owner, Rare Find,Apple CarPlay,Back-Up Camera,Blind Spot Monitor,Bluetooth,Brake Assist,Heated Seats,Heated Sea...
Features and Specs:
30 Combined MPG (26 City/36 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
3VW2T7BU6PM024929
Stock:
PM024929T
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Price Drop
2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Autobahn Sedan
$25,300
fair price
$327 above market
- 36,700 miles
- 26 City / 36 Hwy MPG
- 42 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Baltimore, MD
This 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 2.0T Autobahn combines performance and sophistication in one striking package. Finished in Deep Black Pearl, this sedan...
Features and Specs:
30 Combined MPG (26 City/36 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
3VW2T7BU5PM059901
Stock:
4U059901
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
09-01-2026

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2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI trim level differences

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is available in a single trim level that clearly conveys the car's aspirations: Autobahn. As in the no-speed-limit, limited-access highways laced across Germany. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (228 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque) revs from beneath the hood, and you can choose between a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (called direct-shift gearbox, or DSG). The Jetta GLI comes only with front-wheel drive. Compare the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI trim levels in-depth.

Which Jetta GLI trim does Edmunds recommend?

Volkswagen offers the 2023 Jetta GLI in a single Autobahn trim level so, you know, that's the one we recommend. It is loaded up with equipment like an entry-luxury car, including digital instrumentation, heated and ventilated front sport seats wrapped in leather, a Beats Audio premium sound system and a panoramic sunroof. An optional Black package adds — you guessed it — black trim and black wheels.

Volkswagen Jetta GLI Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.7

27 reviews

5(82%)

4(7%)

3(7%)

2(4%)

1(0%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Everything you could want

Javel123, 04/16/2020

2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)

I love my new gli autobahn it's fun to drive and also great on gas I avg 40mpg in eco mode and when I want to have a little fun sport mode gives the car that extra power

All the Tech You need & Fun to Drive

JTT, 05/13/2020

2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)

Alot of reviews say the interior is and tech is behind but that is incorrect. The 2020 Autobahn gives you plenty of it tech you need in a performance sedan and unlike the others in the segment there are ZERO rattles on the interior and cabin is silent down highway. It is what made me choose the GLI over over all the others I test drove.

Phenomenal!!!

MrNord, 05/12/2020

2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)

Something like this only comes around in the industry once every few years. VW nailed it with the new GLI. The fun factor is off the charts, especially in this price range. They struck a perfect balance between sporty and luxury, practical and exciting. Except for adding vents and a couple of USB ports in the rear seat area there isn’t anything I would change about this vehicle. If …

This car kicks ass

VW owner, 05/30/2021

2021 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)

Just bought a Jetta GLI Autobahn and absolutely love it. The car is a firecracker with plenty of pep and great handling. I read about a substandard interior and that is simply not the case. Not sure how you much better in this price range. Great car.

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, so we've included reviews for other years of the Jetta GLI since its last redesign.

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2023 Jetta GLI Features & Specs

Est. Market Value	$26,326
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	30 MPG
Cost to Drive	$201/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	14.1 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Reliability

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls.

Recalls

There are no recalls for the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 7 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Free maintenance Warranty: 2 years / 20,000 miles

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Volkswagen Jetta GLI vs. Honda Civic

It's no secret that Edmunds is a fan of the Honda Civic, and the Si version is the sportiest of the sedans. Remarkably, it comes only with a sweet-shifting manual transmission that matches revs during downshifts, but that limits its appeal largely to true driving enthusiasts. It's down on power compared to the Jetta GLI but also weighs less, yet it provides about the same interior room and cargo space. If you know how to use a clutch pedal and want to learn more, read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Honda Civic Si.

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Volkswagen Jetta GLI vs. Kia Forte

The Kia Forte GT is a hidden gem for driving enthusiasts. It seems like nobody knows about it, but with a torquey turbocharged engine, a choice between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and plenty of standard and available tech, it's not anything like the standard-issue Forte you rented at the airport. Plus, the Forte GT costs thousands less than the Jetta, and Kia backs it all up with an outstanding warranty. But the Kia isn't as calm, cool and collected as the more refined Volkswagen.

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Volkswagen Jetta GLI vs. Mazda 3

Speaking of calm, cool, collected and refined, the Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo sedan is like a speedy little luxury car. Like the Volkswagen, the Mazda comes only in a top-shelf trim level with all of the extras as standard equipment. Plus, the Mazda includes all-wheel drive to go along with its more powerful turbocharged engine. But the Mazda 3 isn't as accommodating of people and cargo, the price is thousands higher than the Jetta GLI's, and you'll stop for gas more often in the less efficient turbocharged Mazda.

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Safety

Our experts like the Jetta GLI models:

Travel Assist: Maintains a safe distance to vehicles ahead and centers the Jetta GLI in the middle of the lane during highway drives.
Lane Assist: Makes minor steering corrections to help prevent unintentional departures from a travel lane.
Emergency Assist: Brings the Jetta GLI to a controlled stop if the driver becomes unresponsive and Lane Assist or Travel Assist are active. (DSG only)

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FAQ

Is the Volkswagen Jetta GLI a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 Jetta GLI both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.7 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2023 Jetta GLI gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 27 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Jetta GLI has 14.1 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Volkswagen Jetta GLI. Learn more

What's new in the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI:

Complimentary five-year Car-Net Safe & Secure plan (arrives midyear)
No other changes to the Jetta GLI
Part of the seventh Jetta generation introduced for 2019

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Is the Volkswagen Jetta GLI reliable?

To determine whether the Volkswagen Jetta GLI is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Jetta GLI. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Jetta GLI's 5-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 Jetta GLI and gave it a 7.7 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2023 Jetta GLI gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 27 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 Jetta GLI is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI?

The least-expensive 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $31,585.

Other versions include:

Autobahn 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $31,585
Autobahn 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) which starts at $32,385

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What are the different models of Volkswagen Jetta GLI?

If you're interested in the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, the next question is, which Jetta GLI model is right for you? Jetta GLI variants include Autobahn 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M), and Autobahn 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM). For a full list of Jetta GLI models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more