As you may know already, the 2011 Chicago Auto Show will open its doors but automakers already started to show their latest morels. Volkswagen unveiled today the 2012 Jetta GLI, a new model set to combine the comfort and sophistication of a Jetta with aggressive performance and handling. Priced from $23,495, the 2012 Vw Jetta GLI will be available in three trim levels. The 2012 Jetta GLI Autobahn will be priced from $25,545 and will offer 18" alloy wheels, sunroof, dual zone climate control, heated V-Tex Leatherette seats and the Fender Premium Audio System. The most expensive model will be the Jetta GLI Autobahn with Navigation, which adds the RNS-315 navigation system and keyless access with push-button start technology for an MSRP of $26,445. Under the hood, the 2012 Jetta GLI offers the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine delivering 200 hp and 207 lb.-ft. of torque at just 1,700 rpm.
Although the official EPA numbers were not released yet, Volkswagen promises a fuel consumption for the Jetta GLI of 31 mpg highway with the manual and 32 mpg highway with the DSG automatic. Additional performance features include track tuned four-way Independent Performance Suspension, DSG automatic gearbox, XDS cross differential system (introduced for the first time on the Golf GTI) and four wheel disc brakes with floating red calipers.
Some of the premium features introduced by the Jetta GLI are the 6.5" touch screen premium VIII radio with Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, standard one-touch up/down power on all four windows, standard multifunction display (for vehicle status, trip, radio and navigation information when equipped), dual zone climate control, RNS-315 navigation system and available keyless entry with pushbutton start. The 2012 Jetta GLI Autobahn and Autobahn also offers the Fender Premium Audio System fitted with Panasonic speaker technology. Inside, the car features sport buckets seats with red stitching, a sport flat-bottom steering wheel with red stitching, the GLI logo and aluminum accents. The Jetta GLI is available in cloth or V-Tex Leatherette and also features sleek alloy pedals, shifter, dash and door trim.
