2026 Volkswagen Jetta/Jetta GLI Trim Level Overview

2026 Jetta trim levels

The Jetta has been VW’s flagship car for nearly five decades, offering a stellar mix of economy and comfort at an excellent price. It got a significant update last model year, complete with a facelift and some desirable new features that prove Volkswagen isn’t content to simply rest on their laurels, and now, it’s rolled into the current year better than ever.

If you’re in the market for one of the best family cars of 2026 but you’re not sure which trim is right for you, read on to find out their key specs and features.

2026 VW Jetta Trims

For 2026, the Jetta is available in four different trims, plus an additional Jetta GLI model. All come modestly priced and absolutely packed with technology and amenities.

S

Starting price: $23,995

Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder

Key features:

  • 16-inch machined alloy wheels
  • Cloth seating surfaces
  • Climatronic® Touch dual-zone climate control
  • 8-inch VW Digital Cockpit
  • 8-inch Infotainment display
  • App-Connect® (Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™)
  • Bluetooth®
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
  • IQ.DRIVE
  • Connected vehicle services from myVW+

Sport

Starting price: $25,305

Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder

Key features:

  • Most S trim features
  • 17-inch machined alloy wheels
  • XDS Cross Differential System
  • Integrated light bar in front grille
  • Black exterior accents
  • Sport comfort front seats
  • Heated front seats

SE

Starting price: $26,985

Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder

Key features:

  • Most Sport trim features
  • Remote engine start
  • LED exterior lighting
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • CloudTex seating surfaces
  • Wireless App-Connect®
  • Wireless device charging
  • SiriusXM®

SEL

Starting price: $29,995

Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder

Key features:

  • Most SE trim features
  • 18-inch machined alloy wheels
  • Driving Mode Selection
  • Ambient interior lighting
  • Leather seating surfaces
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Heated rear seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • 10.25-inch VW digital Cockpit Pro
  • Navigation
  • VW Premium Audio

GLI Autobahn

Starting price: $33,745

Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI 4-cylinder

Key features:

  • Most SEL features
  • 6-speed manual transmission
  • Multimode DCC® and Adaptive Chassis Control
  • Front differential lock
  • Multi-link rear axle
  • GLI front grille with light bar
  • Red brake calipers
  • Chrome tipped dual exhaust

2026 VW Jetta Performance

The core Jetta trims are all powered by a 1.5-liter engine that cranks out 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, giving it plenty of oomph to get up to highway speeds in no time. The motor is linked to a standard front-wheel drive system and 8-speed automatic transmission, and this system grants impressive gas mileage of up to 29 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The SEL trim also comes with Driving Mode Selection with modes for Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Custom.

Meanwhile, the Jetta GLI comes with a beefed-up 2.0-liter engine that creates 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It also comes standard with front-wheel drive, but swaps out the automatic gearbox for a 6-speed manual, and it gets a variety of performance upgrades to make for an uber-fun sports car experience without breaking the bank.

2026 VW Jetta Interior

Despite its compact size, the Jetta boasts plenty of space for five to ride comfortably and ample legroom in both rows, as well as a spacious trunk with 14.1 cubic feet of storage, making it the perfect cruiser to log some miles on your next road trip.

All models come with a crisp 8-inch center touch screen display, along with Bluetooth and App-Connect® for easy smartphone integration, multiple USB ports, and available upgrades like SiriusXM®, wireless device charging, and VW Premium Sound for an enhanced listening experience. Top-level trims also get the VW Digital Cockpit Pro, as well as comfort features like heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and elegant leather upholstery.

Every trim also has access to myVW+ Connected Services, including in-car Wi-Fi.

2026 VW Jetta Safety Features

No matter which Jetta trim you buy, they all come standard with the IQ.DRIVE suite of driver assistance systems. Features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance), Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring), Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System), Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency), Active Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Traffic Alert.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the available colors for the 2026 Jetta?

There are eight available colors for 2026, including Deep Black Pearl, Opal White Pearl, Monterey Blue Pearl, Kings Red Metallic, Platinum Grey Metallic, Pyrite Silver Metallic, Monument Gray, and Pure White.

Does the 2026 Jetta have AWD?

No, the Jetta is only available as a front-wheel drive model.

How much leg room does the 2026 Jetta have?

The Jetta has 41.1 inches of leg room in the front row and 37.4 inches in the rear.

Find the 2026 VW Jetta for Sale in Kansas City

Whether you choose the affordable Jetta or the zippy Jetta GLI, you’ll be riding in style thanks to Volkswagen’s forward-thinking design and efficient powertrains.

At Molle Volkswagen of Kansas City, we have a top-notch selection of new models to browse, plus exclusive special offers, including VW lease deals and low APR financing. If you’re ready to take a test drive, call us at 816-941-9500 or contact us online today.