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2021 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Vs. 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI
The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI and 2021 Volkswagen Jetta GLI are two excellent, highly acclaimed, excessively fun-to-drive machines. Both models were selected for Car and Driver’s 10Best list this year. With both models being so good, it can be tough to choose between the two.
While you can’t go wrong with either one, there are some notable differences between the 2021 GLI and GTI that should help shoppers narrow down their preference. It basically comes down to which aspects are most important to you personally. No one can tell you whether you should go GLI or GTI; that’s a choice you must make for yourself.
That isn’t to say we’re not here to help, though. Read on to gain a bit of elucidation on the main differences between the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta GLI and 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI. If you happen to be in the vicinity of Maryland’s eastern shore, schedule a test drive to try each model out for yourself once you’re done. Thanks for reading; we hope to hear from you soon!
2021 Volkswagen Jetta GLI |
Vs. |
2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI |
|---|---|---|
| $26,435 - $29,945 | Starting MSRP | $28,695 - $36,495 |
| 14.1 cubic feet | Cargo Volume | 17.4 cubic feet, 53.7 with seat area |
| Sedan | Body Style | Hatchback |
| Not Available | Plaid Seats | Standard |
| 37.4 inches | Rear Legroom | 35.6 inches |
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Price Differences
As seen in the table above, the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta GLI starts out about $2,000 cheaper than the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI. As one goes to higher trim levels, the price differences get even more defined. This is especially true of the top-tier Autobahn trim, which costs $6,500 more on the 2021 GTI than the GLI.
The effects of these price differences will be looked at more below. They mostly seem to come across in the aesthetic; the look for the 2021 Jetta GLI is more sedated, and interior materials/features are less upscale.
Surprising Practicality
The common sentiment among reviewers is that the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI has a nicer interior than the 2021 Jetta GLI. Perhaps surprisingly, however, the 2021 GLI is more practical, with a larger trunk and a roomier back seat. The folding rear seat in the GLI helps individuals fit longer items too. The 2021 GTI is, however, better for hauling tall items thanks to its open passthrough into the cabin.
Differences in Interior Features and Quality
The interior of the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI utilizes more upscale materials than the 2021 Jetta GLI, and it also offers more luxury features. These include dual-zone automatic climate control, 12-way adjustable power seats, bolstered front seats, rear air vents and navigation. It’s also gets the trademark GTI plaid seat pattern, which the GLI does not offer.
While the 2021 Jetta GLI doesn’t get as many luxury features, it does get some elements that are not available in the 2021 Golf GTI. Exclusives to the Jetta GLI include available ventilated front seats and a Volkswagen virtual cockpit on the Autobahn trim.
Top-of-the-Line Performance
Both the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta GLI and 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI provide excellent performance experiences thanks to their shared 228-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant comes mated to either a manual or automatic transmission. This vaunted performance propels both models to greatness within their respective classes.
