Volkswagen Jetta is one of the most loved cars in the US in VAG portfolio. In order to remain so, Volkswagen decided to launch some updates.
For the 2022 model year, Volkswagen of America will launch a refreshed Jetta family with new technology and styling to elevate both the value-oriented Jetta and the sporty Jetta GLI.
The refreshed Jetta adopts the 1.5-liter turbocharged and direct-injection EA211 engine found in the recently-launched Taos compact SUV. Making 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, the powerplant features Volkswagen’s modified version of the Miller cycle, where the intake valves are closed early in the induction stroke to help with fuel economy, and has a very high compression ratio of up to 11.5 to one. The upshot is a combination of low-speed torque and competitive fuel economy. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual or a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Jetta GLI is powered by the 2.0-liter EA888 engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission is optional.
Jetta and GLI models are based Volkswagen’s Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform architecture. Both models feature a strut-type front suspension, with Jetta offering a torsion beam rear setup, while GLI models have a multi-link rear suspension. Dubbed the “GTI with a trunk,” GLI boasts the sophisticated VAQ electronically-controlled torque-sensing limited-slip differential, which works in tandem with the XDS Cross Differential System, as well as the DCC adaptive damping system.
The 2022 Jetta will be offered in four value-laden trim levels, while the GLI will be offered in one fully-loaded trim. New for 2022 is the Jetta Sport trim, which features enthusiast-inspired content at a value-oriented price point. The XDS electronic differential lock and dark graphite 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are standard, along with a blacked-out grille, mirror caps and window trim, a black headliner, and unique cloth sport seats. The Sport trim replaces the previous model year’s R-Line trim, and is repositioned just above the base S trim for maximum accessibility.
On the outside, the Jetta and GLI get a style update with new front and rear bumpers, new colors and new wheels. The revised front end incorporates a new front bumper, featuring a new grille with two distinctive chrome bars flanking the VW logo. On the GLI, its characteristic red accent strip sits between the bars, and the lower front fascia features the legacy honeycomb detail. LED headlights and daytime running lights (DRLs) are standard, with top trim Jetta models and GLI having projector LEDs.
Inside, the Jetta and GLI boast upgraded technology and design updates throughout their cabins. The Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster now comes standard with an 8-inch display on Jetta, and the 10-inch Digital Cockpit Pro on GLI. Both cars also feature standard Volkswagen Car-Net with in-car Wi-Fi capability when you subscribe to a data plan. On top Jetta trims and the GLI, MIB3 infotainment is standard, along with wireless charging and wireless App-Connect for compatible devices. New rhombus cloth seats are standard, as is contrast stitching throughout the cockpit. Leatherette and leather seating surfaces are available on Jetta models, with the latter available in a new Volcano Brown and black two-tone palette. GLI features red contrast stitching throughout the interior and perforated leather seats with red underlay.
A leatherette-wrapped steering wheel is available on base Jetta models and standard on higher trims, with heating available, while GLI features a new leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with touch functions and a red “GLI” clip. Heated front and rear seats, along with front seat ventilation are available on Jetta, while GLI features standard heated and ventilated front seats. Power driver seat, Climatronic automatic climate control, and KESSY® keyless access and push-button start are available from mid-trim models on Jetta and are standard on GLI. Additional available features include a sunroof, BeatsAudio premium sound, and 10-color ambient lighting.
