VW Jetta GLI: Inner strength

"Wards Auto" has an interesting article how the VW Jetta GLI wants to return to its former inner strength.

It was P. Diddy. Now it's just Diddy. It was Jetta GLI. Now it's just GLI. When you're struggling with an identity crisis, less often is more.

Hip Hop impresario Sean “Puffy” Combs, aka Puff Daddy and P. Diddy, is struggling to remain fresh and relevant with a young, fickle audience constantly looking for something new.

The interior is simple, but the surfaces are low-gloss and richly textured for a premium, Teutonic look. The GLI also gets real aluminum trim in place of the fake stuff, and it is used tastefully.

What really sets the GLI apart from the pack is its engine and suspension. It features the stunning 2.0T intercooled and turbocharged gasoline I-4 that is one of the best 4-cyls. on the market.

The suspension also is a treat. Stiffer spring rates and increased diameter roll bars front and rear are added to the Jetta's already competent setup that includes a multilink rear suspension. The result is a very controlled ride at speed and during cornering, but it is not overtly stiff like so many performance-oriented cars costing less than $25,000.

The GLI's cabin is extremely quiet, even at triple-digit speeds, meaning it delivers on its claim of autobahn-bred German engineering, even though it is built in Mexico. Thanks to a black honeycomb mesh grille with a red surround strip, blue-tinted windows, red brake calipers and optional 18-in. wheels, the GLI also manages to look a lot less like a suburban grocery-getter than its Jetta sibling.

Nevertheless, the Jetta and GLI should find their way back into younger buyer's hearts, at least those who can look past the slightly pudgy exterior and appreciate its inner strengths: a great powertrain and fine German engineering.

GermanCarBlog, VW Jetta

Source: Wards Auto

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