2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is the addition of the limited-run 40th Anniversary Edition. Otherwise, this is a light-update year with the same 228-hp turbo engine and a few equipment upgrades.
About the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
7th generation Jetta/GLI, late-cycle year after the 2022 refresh and just before the 2025 styling and interior update.
Volkswagen positions the Jetta GLI as the sportier, more serious version of the Jetta: a compact sport sedan that blends GTI-like punch with a usable back seat and real trunk. Its core appeal is balance. It pairs a strong turbo engine and sharp front-drive handling hardware with everyday comfort, good highway manners, and practical cabin space. In plain terms, it is the Jetta for drivers who want one car that can commute, road-trip, and still feel fun on a back road.
The 40th Anniversary Edition is the more distinctive, performance-focused version, pairing anniversary details and cloth sport seats with adaptive suspension and a front limited-slip differential for better traction. The Autobahn is the more upscale GLI, with leather seats, front-seat ventilation, premium audio, a sunroof, and a heated steering wheel.
What changed, by category
2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 7-Spd DSG w/Tiptronic | Automatic, 7-Spd DSG w/Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 35 mpg | 35 mpg |
| Horsepower | 228 hp | 228 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.1 cu-ft | 14.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.4 in | 37.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Subwoofer | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI?
The biggest change is the new limited-run 40th Anniversary Edition. It adds special anniversary details and cloth sport seats while retaining the GLI’s 228-hp engine, adaptive suspension, and front limited-slip differential.
Did the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI get a new engine?
No. The 2024 Jetta GLI keeps the same 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel-drive layout used for 2023.
How is the 2024 Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition different from the Autobahn?
The 40th Anniversary Edition has unique anniversary trim, cloth sport seats, and a simpler cabin, while the Autobahn emphasizes comfort with leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, premium audio, a sunroof, and a heated steering wheel. Both use the same 228-hp turbo engine.
Is the 2024 Jetta GLI a major update over the 2023 model?
No. The 2024 Jetta GLI is a light update centered on the new 40th Anniversary Edition, 45W USB-C fast charging for both trims, and a heated steering wheel for the Autobahn.
Does the 2024 Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition have adaptive suspension?
Yes. The 2024 Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition has adaptive suspension as standard equipment, along with a front limited-slip differential that helps improve traction.
2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI.