2022 VW Jetta Just Makes the Grade But the GLI Triumphs

Serena Aburahma
· 4 min read
Those interested in a high-rated small car might consider the 2022 VW Jetta. 
Volkswagen's compact car models offer the technology you would expect from a
new car
, and a surprising space considering their size. All of this comes together for a relatively acclaimed car that comes in at an affordable starting price of $20,000.
However, according to
Car and Driver
, the 2022 VW Jetta does struggle with being an unspectacular car. For a vehicle with a little more power, drivers will have to look to an upgraded Jetta model.
Sometimes an upgrade is a bit excessive, but in this case, we don’t think so.

Comfortable features of the 2022 VW Jetta

For an economy compact, the Jetta feels impressively big and can carry more than you might expect. 
This is not the first VW vehicle to surprise drivers with its space, as the Volkswagen Atlas is an incredibly spacious midsize SUV. Car and Driver noted that the Jetta could hold more bags than the VW Golf hatchback.
As for power, the Jetta features a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower. It can come as a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. Overall, it’s a comfortable ride.
In terms of technological features, the 2022 VW Jetta has an intuitive infotainment system that can connect easily with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also includes driver-assistance technology like adaptive cruise control.
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What are the drawbacks to the 2022 Jetta?

MORE: The Cheapest 3-Row SUV Is Made by Volkswagen
Car and Driver notes that there really isn't anything glaringly wrong with the 2022 VW Jetta, but there are areas where it feels underwhelming. 
It never really demonstrates the power that makes it more fun to drive than competitors, and it is also fairly bland in terms of style. This may not be a problem for everyone, but it does keep the Jetta from standing out.
The lack of a hybrid powertrain is also strange for the new VW Jetta. Volkswagen has been working to innovate EV technology, as can be seen with their
new charging stations
. Competitors are offering more hybrid options for vehicle models, so the Jetta not having one feels odd.
However, while these drawbacks may turn some drivers away from the Jetta, there is a model that helps solve most of them. It may not be a hybrid, but the Jetta GLI is an improved car.

Improvements in the 2022 VW Jetta GLI

The GLI is the performance variant of the regular Jetta, and it immediately sets itself apart with a more striking visual style than its counterpart. At first glance, the GLI appears sportier than the standard Jetta, and it only gets better from there.
According to
Car and Driver
, the 2022 VW Jetta GLI is a much more fun car to drive partially because of its improved power. The GLI has a 228-horsepower engine and features significantly improved acceleration over the regular Jetta.
These improvements in driving do not come at the expense of losing what makes the standard Jetta great either. The GLI is just as spacious and comfortable, meaning that it is a truly better car all around.
As a performance model, the 2022 VW Jetta GLI does come with a larger price tag starting at $32,000. Considering the added benefits of this car, though, this is a reasonable price.
If you want to upgrade from a Jetta to a Jetta GLI but are worried about the price increase, you can offset some of the cost by lowering your car insurance. 
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