Feb 14, 2023

vw jetta vs vw jetta gli

And How to Find Them at a Volkswagen Dealership in Utah

Volkswagen is rolling out their 2023 lineup of vehicles – are you ready? Drivers now have a full selection of new model year compacts, sedans, and SUVs that are packed with the latest in features and performance upgrades.

Two of the vehicles that we are particularly excited about are the 2023 VW Jetta and the 2023 VW Jetta GLI. However, when comparing one Volkswagen Jetta for sale to the other, it’s important to know that these vehicles are quite different from each other, despite the similarity in name. One leans toward the practical driver, while the other is a certified speed demon with souped-up performance specs.

To help differentiate these two new VW vehicles, we’re breaking down what makes each Jetta distinct, along with where you can find them for a test drive.

The 2023 VW Jetta vs. the 2023 VW Jetta GLI – Main Specs and Performance

As has been the case for several years, the VW Jetta remains one of the most practical and reliable cars under the Volkswagen banner. It prioritizes reliability and cost of ownership, delivering 29 miles per gallon in the city and 42 miles per gallon on the highway, which makes those trips to the gas pumps a little less anxiety-inducing. Additionally, the VW Jetta has a starting MSRP of just $20,655 – one of the least expensive sedans in its class.

Don’t let the price tag of 2023 VW Jetta lead you to believe it skimps on quality or performance. It delivers big-time in all the major metrics. In fact, it’s a Consumer Reports recommended vehicle, scoring top marks in fuel economy, ride, nose, braking, transmission, usability, and overall performance. On top of that, it has one of the most comprehensive safety and infotainment feature packages ever installed in a VW. Considering all that the VW Jetta brings to the table, its low sticker price almost gives it a “too good to be true” sort of vibe. Trust us on this – the new Jetta continues to deliver just like all its prior iterations. That’s why it continues to be one of our best-sellers here at VW SouthTowne.

Not to be outdone, the 2023 VW Jetta GLI is a speedster that’s cleverly disguised as a sedan. The Jetta GLI uses the same signature red accents made famous by the VW Golf GTI lineup, giving the vehicle a nice pop of color on the grill, brake calipers, and all throughout the interior. It’s the perfect blend of sophistication and understated aggression – a Bond-worthy sedan if we do say so ourselves.

The VW Jetta GLI comes with a 2.0L turbo 6-speed manual transmission that provides drivers with 258 lb-ft of torque and 228 horsepower (compared to 184 lb-ft of torque and 158 of the standard VW Jetta), which gives drivers a huge performance boost. Drivers will also notice that the VW Jetta GLI is more responsive and precise in its handling, especially with tight turns and tricky curves.

As if being the superior performer isn’t enough, the 2023 VW Jetta GLI includes one of the most loaded feature packages ever installed in a VW. In fact, the Autobahn trim has several infotainment and technology features that the entry-level standard Jetta doesn’t, which include:

  • Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro: 10.25″ configurable digital instrument display
  • Composition Media touchscreen sound system with 8″ color display, proximity sensor, AM/FM/HD radio and voice control
  • BeatsAudio®
  • Air Care® Climatronic 2 zone automatic climate control with enhanced air filter with activated carbon
  • Ambient interior lighting
  • Heated front seats with leather seating surfaces and ventilation
  • Leather-wrapped multifunction sports steering wheel
  • Power driver seat with memory
  • LED projector headlights with LED daytime running lights
  • Power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof
  • Rain-sensing, variable intermittent front wipers
  • Multimode DCC® and adaptive chassis control
  • Variable ratio electromechanical power steering
  • Keyless access with push-button start

This Volkswagen Jetta for sale has a starting MSRP of $31,585, which is a steal considering its elevated performance specs and comprehensive feature offering. Granted, the standard VW Jetta offers the lowest cost of ownership, but for drivers who want a little more excitement in their daily commutes – you can’t go wrong with the GLI.

It’s worth noting that no matter which VW Jetta you decide on, Carefree Coverage is included. Carefree Coverage is a warranty package that’s intended to keep your Jetta in stellar condition. It breaks down as follows:

  • 2 yrs. Service – Scheduled Carefree Maintenance (2 years or 20,000 miles)
  • 3 yrs. Help – Roadside Assistance (3 years or 36,000 miles)
  • 4 yrs. Coverage – New Vehicle Limited Warranty (4 years or 50,000 miles)
  • 5 yrs. Access – myVW Remote Access

Anytime you need to get routine maintenance or service on your new VW, Carefree Coverage will appear in your records, which makes the process simple and easy.

Looking for a Volkswagen Jetta for Sale? Visit VW SouthTowne Today!

Now that you know what makes the 2023 VW Jetta GLI distinct when comparing it to the standard Jetta, the next step is to arrange a test drive to see how they measure up. However, the 2023 models of both vehicles are currently in transit, which means you’ll have to wait a bit before they hit the showroom floor here at VW SouthTowne. Our advice is to contact us to let us know which model of Jetta you’re interested in trying out. Once they arrive at our dealership, one of our staff will be in touch to let you know the 2023 Jetta is ready for you.

In the meantime, if you’re looking for a used Jetta near you, we have 2021 model years and older. We also carry a wide variety of new cars, used cars, and certified pre-owned vehicles that have undergone 100+-point inspection. Additionally, we’re always running great deals and limited-time offers on VW products in our specials section.

Whether you’re looking for a new or used car near you in Utah, VW SouthTowne can help you find the perfect Volkswagen for your budget and driving style. Visit the Volkswagen finance center to get started on your preapproval for a loan today.

Our Volkswagen dealership in Utah is located at 11000 South 290 West in South Jordan. Contact us by calling (801) 988-5825 or by emailing us via the contact form on our website.

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