2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI in Onalaska, WI

The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI has arrived at Volkswagen La Crosse, bringing a dose of adrenaline to the four-door market. Known affectionately as the "GTI with a trunk," this sport sedan is designed for the enthusiast who needs practical space but craves performance. It separates itself from the standard lineup with aggressive styling cues, a more powerful engine, and a chassis tuned for the winding back roads of the Driftless Area.

The 2026 model continues the legacy of accessible performance, offering a driving experience that is visceral, connected, and incredibly fun. It is the ultimate sleeper car, hiding serious capability beneath a sophisticated exterior.

Interior

Inside the cockpit, the 2026 Jetta GLI makes its sporting intentions clear immediately. You are greeted by deep-bolstered sport seats featuring red contrast stitching, a hallmark of Volkswagen's performance models. The driver-centric layout puts every control within easy reach, including the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel which now features tactile touch controls.

The Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro allows you to customize your instrument cluster to display performance metrics like G-forces and boost pressure. Ambient lighting with 10 configurable colors lets you set the mood for your night drives, while the standard BeatsAudio® system ensures your soundtrack is as thrilling as the drive itself.

Exterior

The exterior of the 2026 GLI is muscular and purposeful, distinguishing it from the standard Jetta with unique red accents and honeycomb detailing. The front end features a bold red line that cuts across the grille, a nod to its sporting heritage, flanked by sharp LED projector headlights.

It sits lower to the ground on striking 18-inch alloy wheels that reveal red-painted brake calipers, signaling the stopping power within. The rear is finished with dual chrome exhaust tips and a subtle trunk lid spoiler that aids aerodynamics. For those wanting a stealthier look, the available Black Package adds blacked-out mirrors, roof, and wheels for a menacing aesthetic.

Performance

The soul of the 2026 Jetta GLI is its potent 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI® engine, generating a robust 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Enthusiasts will celebrate the availability of a 6-speed manual transmission, allowing for complete control over every gear change, while a lightning-fast 7-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic is also available.

The GLI features the VAQ electronically-controlled torque-sensing limited-slip differential, which mechanically monitors traction to reduce understeer in corners. Combined with the DCC® adaptive chassis control, which lets you stiffen or soften the suspension on the fly, the GLI offers handling precision that rivals far more expensive sports cars.

Safety Features

While performance is the priority, the 2026 GLI does not skimp on protection. It comes standard with the IQ.DRIVE® system, ensuring you have a co-pilot for the daily commute. Adaptive Cruise Control helps maintain a set distance from the car in front of you, reducing fatigue on long highway stretches.

Lane Assist can gently steer the vehicle back into its lane if you start to drift without signaling. In the event of a collision, the Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS) automatically unlocks doors, turns off the fuel pump, and activates the hazard lights, providing an extra layer of security.

Visit Us in Onalaska, WI

The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI allows you to have your cake and eat it too, blending track-ready performance with everyday usability. It is the perfect solution for the driver who refuses to settle for a boring commute. Stop by Volkswagen La Crosse to experience the thrill of the 2026 GLI firsthand.