The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta Gli Sel stands out as a compelling option in the compact car segment, blending German-engineered performance with everyday usability. As a sporty variant of the popular Jetta sedan, the GLI aims to deliver driving thrills without sacrificing comfort or practicality. This review delves into the specifics of the 2015 Jetta GLI SEL, examining its performance, interior features, and overall value proposition for driving enthusiasts and practical car buyers alike.
Sporty Design and Distinctive Features
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta GLI SEL distinguishes itself from the standard Jetta models with a range of sporty exterior and interior enhancements.
Exterior Styling: Aggressive Yet Refined
The GLI’s exterior receives a noticeable upgrade, starting with a blacked-out honeycomb grille accented with red stripes, immediately signaling its performance intentions. This is complemented by a unique lower front fascia housing corner-illuminating fog lights. Subtle yet effective visual cues like the GLI-specific body kit, a rear decklid spoiler, and distinctive 18-inch alloy wheels further enhance its athletic stance. These design elements contribute to a look that is both aggressive and refined, setting the GLI apart without being overly ostentatious.
Interior Design: Sporty Accents and Comfort
Inside the cabin, the sporty theme continues with well-bolstered leatherette sport seats featuring carbon-fiber-look accents. Red piping on the seats and instrument panel, along with red stitching on the leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel and brake handle, inject a dose of sporty flair into the otherwise dark interior. Brushed metal pedal faces add another touch of refinement. These interior touches create a driver-focused environment that is both stylish and comfortable for daily driving.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2015 Volkswagen Jetta GLI SEL is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 210 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful in its class on paper, the GLI translates its power into a rewarding driving experience on the road.
Engine and Transmission: Engaging Performance
The turbocharged engine provides ample power, especially in the mid-range, making highway merging and passing maneuvers confident and enjoyable. The standard 6-speed manual transmission in the tested model is praised for its precise clutch and shifter action, enhancing the fun-to-drive character. Though reaching for 5th and 6th gears might feel a slight stretch, the overall manual gearbox experience is engaging and driver-centric. Fuel economy is reasonable for a performance-oriented vehicle, with real-world testing showing around 25 mpg in mixed driving conditions, close to the EPA combined estimate of 26 mpg.
Handling and Ride Comfort: Balanced Performance
The GLI’s performance enhancements include the XDS “cross differential” system, designed to improve handling during cornering by reducing inner wheel spin. While extensive cornering tests weren’t conducted in the original review, the ride quality is noted as a good balance between comfort and control. The electric power steering, however, is described as somewhat bland, lacking a bit in feedback compared to more engaging systems.
Practicality and Interior Space
Despite its sporty focus, the 2015 Jetta GLI SEL retains the practical attributes of the standard Jetta, offering a spacious interior and trunk.
Cabin Space and Comfort: Roomy and Well-Equipped
The Jetta platform is known for its roomy rear seats, and the GLI SEL is no exception. Rear passenger space is generous for the compact class, making it suitable for families or those who frequently carry passengers. The cabin also features user-friendly audio and climate controls, and strategically placed soft-touch surfaces enhance the overall interior feel. Standard comfort and convenience features include a power sunroof, push-button start, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Trunk Space and Storage: Practical Cargo Capacity
The Jetta GLI SEL boasts a generously sized trunk, making it practical for everyday needs and longer trips. While the rear seatbacks do not fold completely flat, they still offer added cargo flexibility when needed. In-cabin storage is adequate with a large glovebox, console cupholders, a small console box, and door pockets, though the review notes limited in-cabin storage as a minor drawback. Interestingly, the test car only had a map pouch on the back of the passenger seat, unlike some other Jetta models.
Technology and Convenience Features: Modern Amenities
The SEL trim adds a host of technology and convenience features, including a media device interface, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen navigation, premium Fender audio, satellite radio, rearview camera, and a multifunction vehicle information display. Safety and driver assistance features include Bi-Xenon adaptive headlights, LED daytime running lights and taillights, blind-spot monitoring with rear-traffic alert, and VW Car-Net emergency services.
Value and Market Position
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta GLI SEL, with a tested price of around $30,100, positions itself as a near-luxury compact sedan with a sporty edge.
Price and Trims: SEL vs. SE
The SEL trim level, as tested, represents the top-of-the-line GLI. A lower SE trim is also available at a lower base price, offering a more accessible entry point into the GLI performance experience. While the $30K price point might seem high for the compact class, the near-luxury interior trimmings and comprehensive feature set justify the cost for those seeking a more premium feel.
Competitive Landscape: Unique Blend of Sport and Sophistication
The review highlights that the Jetta GLI occupies a unique space in the compact performance sedan market. While competitors like the Ford Focus ST, Honda Civic Si, and Subaru WRX might offer more outright performance in some metrics, the GLI distinguishes itself with a more sophisticated character and better everyday comfort. It aims for a blend of driving thrills and daily usability that few competitors can match.
Conclusion: A Balanced and Appealing Choice
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta GLI SEL delivers a compelling package for drivers seeking a compact sedan that is both sporty and practical. It successfully blends refined German performance with the everyday usability and spaciousness of the Jetta platform. While it may not be the most hardcore performance car in its class, its combination of upscale features, comfortable ride, and engaging driving dynamics make it a standout choice for those who want a daily driver with a fun side. If you’re looking for a compact sedan that offers driving thrills without sacrificing sophistication or practicality, the 2015 Volkswagen Jetta GLI SEL is definitely worth considering.
