Volkswagen Commemorates 40 Years of the Jetta GLI with Special 2024 Edition

Distinctive features and a touch of history adorn the limited-edition model

Volkswagen Canada has proudly ushered in the production of a commemorative model, the 40th Anniversary Edition of the Jetta GLI. Launched back in 1984, the Jetta GLI, often dubbed the “GTI with a trunk,” has graced Canadian roads, offering German-engineered performance to myriad driving enthusiasts.

For this significant milestone, Volkswagen has ensured the 40th Anniversary Edition stands out. The vehicle's exterior sports three distinctive hues—Pure Grey, Oryx White, and Kings Red. Further accentuating its sleek look, each colour is complemented with a black roof and blackout detailing spanning the vehicle’s entirety. The design is enhanced with the incorporation of unique 18-inch “Belvedere” wheels in a striking black, ten-spoke design, seamlessly paired with a black grille, mirror caps, door handles, and spoiler.

The interior of the car exudes a sense of exclusivity. Each model boasts embossed “Molecular” cloth seats, specially designed for this edition. Interestingly, each seat fabric will be distinct, akin to individual fingerprints. Attention to detail is further evidenced by engraved cupholders, one brandishing the GLI logo and the other the year 1984. Additionally, seat tags and front door sills proudly display the “GLI 40” insignia. Not to be missed, the steering wheel is adorned with a “40” clip placed strategically at the six o’clock position.

Under the hood, the 40th Anniversary Edition remains true to the Jetta GLI's legacy of performance. It is equipped with a turbocharged EA888 2.0-litre engine, churning out 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Prospective buyers have the choice between a six-speed manual and a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Retaining features beloved by enthusiasts, the edition includes larger brakes, a Sport HMI performance monitor, a VAQ electronically-controlled torque-sensing limited-slip differential, and a sport exhaust.

The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary Edition is priced starting at $31,395 for the manual transmission variant and $32,795 for the DSG transmission model. As a point of reference, the traditional GLI Autobahn model is also available, with prices starting at $33,395 and $34,795 for the manual and DSG transmissions, respectively.

For those keen on owning a piece of Volkswagen's rich history, the Jetta GLI models are set to grace dealerships by the end of this summer.