The Volkswagen Jetta has quietly become a staple on North American roads, and we’re now deep into its seventh generation. While some might recall the early generations with nostalgia, the current iteration of the Jetta continues to evolve. Having spent a week behind the wheel of the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn, it’s time to delve into whether this sporty sedan lives up to the legacy and if it deserves a spot on your shopping list.
2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn: Trim and Features Overview
For those seeking a performance-oriented Jetta, the 2023 model year simplifies the choice. If the Jetta GLI badge catches your eye, you’re essentially looking at the Autobahn trim. In a market saturated with confusing alphanumeric trim levels, Autobahn is refreshingly straightforward and speaks to a legacy of German performance. While the standard 2023 Jetta models range from the budget-friendly S at $20,665 to the well-equipped SEL starting at $28,385, the GLI Autobahn enters the scene at a base price of $31,585.
The most significant differentiator between the standard Jetta and the Jetta GLI lies under the hood. The regular Jetta models are powered by a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the GLI unlocks a more potent 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering a robust 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the GLI does carry an extra 282 pounds compared to the base Jetta, the power increase is substantial and immediately noticeable. Volkswagen clearly aims to cater to driving enthusiasts with the GLI.
The 2023 Jetta GLI Autobahn comes generously equipped with a host of comfort, convenience, and technology features expected in the $30,000-$35,000 price range. Options are kept relatively simple, including an automatic transmission for an additional $800, a selection of paint colors (the tested “Rising Blue Metallic” being a standout no-cost option), and a $595 Black Package. The Black Package adds a touch of visual aggression with a black-painted roof, black mirror caps, a rear spoiler, and 18-inch black alloy wheels. While the black accents are appealing, the test vehicle’s standard specification proved to be quite attractive.
As tested, the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn comes in at $32,680. Let’s delve deeper into the details to assess its strengths and weaknesses and determine if it earns a spot on your shortlist for a sporty and practical sedan.
Exterior Styling: Clean and Classic German Design
The seventh-generation Jetta, now in its fifth year, maintains a contemporary and appealing design. Sharing a visual kinship with the Volkswagen Arteon, the Jetta embodies a clean and uncluttered aesthetic, a hallmark of classic German design. A distinctive beltline crease originates at the red GLI logo, flowing seamlessly through the door handles and culminating at the top of the brake light. The rear design echoes this simplicity with well-integrated taillights and dual exhaust outlets, resulting in an overall clean and refined appearance.
The front fascia of the 2023 Jetta GLI remains tidy and modern, especially when compared to some of the more aggressively styled contemporary vehicles. Sporty red accents integrated into the grille are a GLI signature and add a touch of visual flair without being overbearing. The inclusion of stylish, non-black, split-spoke wheels further enhances the Jetta GLI’s attractive sedan profile, especially considering its competitive price point.
Interior and Technology: Functional but Showing its Age
Stepping inside the 2023 Jetta GLI Autobahn reveals a cabin that is functional and well-laid out, although it hints at the platform’s age. While newer Volkswagen models are embracing button-less designs, the Jetta retains a more traditional control layout. Ironically, while some criticize the newer touch-sensitive controls, the Jetta’s more conventional approach, while ergonomically sound, can appear somewhat dated when placed alongside Volkswagen’s latest offerings. Even details like the leather seats exhibit some wrinkling, suggesting a design that is not the freshest in the VW lineup. For those cross-shopping within the Volkswagen showroom, the Jetta’s interior might feel less contemporary compared to newer models.
However, familiarity has its advantages. The steering wheel controls, while featuring haptic feedback buttons, are relatively easy to adapt to, especially the sliding volume control. Notably, the GLI retains a physical volume knob, conveniently located to the right of the infotainment screen. Technology integration presented a mixed bag. The test vehicle experienced the common Volkswagen issue of wired Apple CarPlay conflicting with wireless CarPlay. Selecting wireless CarPlay can disable USB CarPlay functionality. Furthermore, wireless phone charging proved unreliable due to the phone sliding in the tray and overheating issues.
A more significant technological glitch occurred during a longer drive. Navigation via smartphone became impossible as the system failed to connect through either USB or Bluetooth. Compounding the issue, all audio sources, including radio, ceased to function. This incident evoked memories of past reliability concerns, reminiscent of an older Jetta model experiencing stereo failure at a low mileage.
Cargo capacity in the 2023 Jetta GLI is a practical 14.1 cubic feet. This proved ample for everyday needs, easily accommodating hockey equipment, including a hockey stick, which can be a challenge for some compact sedans. The Jetta’s trunk makes it a suitable daily driver for hauling passengers and cargo within reasonable limits. While not as versatile as a hatchback, the Jetta sedan offers commendable practicality.
On the Road: Engaging Performance and Minor Quirks
On the road, the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn delivers satisfying performance. The engine provides ample power for confident acceleration, and spirited driving can even induce tire chirp in second gear – a touch of playful immaturity that driving enthusiasts might appreciate. The shifter, while substantial in size, fits comfortably in hand, though the throws are somewhat long. Highway driving reveals impressive speed build-up in fourth gear. However, longer drives exposed a minor comfort issue: the hard plastic trim beside the driver’s right knee can become bothersome on extended journeys if rested against for too long.
Other minor quirks surfaced during daily driving. The cupholder design is slightly oversized for standard soda cans, leading to unwanted rattling noises during acceleration and deceleration. Additionally, unlike many newer vehicles with automatic door unlock upon handle approach, the Jetta still requires pressing a button on the door handle. These are minor points, perhaps more noticeable to someone who frequently drives a variety of different vehicles. On a more whimsical note, the front seat’s near-flat reclining capability was discovered – though the reviewer playfully notes this is “none of your business.”
Summary: A Sporty Sedan in a Shifting Landscape
As Volkswagen transitions towards an electric vehicle future with its ID series, the future direction of the Jetta remains a topic of speculation. Rumors suggest a potential eighth-generation Jetta may be on the horizon, possibly as a refresh of the current model with updated aesthetics. However, the most significant challenge for the Jetta GLI comes from within Volkswagen’s own stable: the GTI.
The Volkswagen GTI boasts not only more power from its 2.0L engine (241 hp and 273 lb-ft) but is also significantly shorter (over 18 inches!) while offering 5.8 cubic feet more cargo space. Front headroom, shoulder room, and legroom are comparable or even better in the GTI, with only rear legroom being slightly less by 2.4 inches.
While the GTI carries a higher price tag, starting at $30,530 for the base model and reaching $39,070 for the Autobahn trim, it benefits from a recent (2022) update to the Mk8 generation. Despite some criticisms regarding the button-less design of newer VW models, those seeking a practical and sporty four-door vehicle should strongly consider the GTI over the Jetta, unless a hatchback configuration is a deal-breaker. For sedan enthusiasts, the 2023 Vw Jetta GLI Autobahn offers a compelling blend of performance and practicality in a subtly sporty package, even as it faces strong competition from within its own brand.
