If you're researching the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta, you likely have questions about fuel economy, performance, technology, and trim options. This FAQ guide provides clear, data-backed answers to help you understand what makes the Jetta—and its performance-oriented GLI variant—a practical choice for drivers in Toronto and across Ontario.
This guide simplifies the technical details across trim levels, engine options, and feature availability so you can make an informed decision.
What Kind of Fuel Economy Does the 2026 Jetta Deliver?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta achieves a combined fuel consumption rating of 7.2 L/100 km with its 1.5 TSI turbocharged engine and 8-speed automatic transmission. City driving registers 8.2 L/100 km, while highway efficiency improves to 5.9 L/100 km.
This makes the Jetta a practical option for Toronto commuters who split time between urban traffic and highway stretches. The GLI, with its larger 2.0 TSI engine, consumes 8.1 L/100 km combined with the manual transmission and 8.2 L/100 km with the DSG automatic—still efficient given its 228 horsepower output.
How Much Power Does the Standard Jetta Have?
The base Jetta uses a 1.5 L 4-cylinder TSI turbocharged engine that produces 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission and includes start/stop technology with regenerative braking to maximize efficiency.
For drivers who prioritize daily usability over outright performance, the 1.5 TSI delivers smooth acceleration without sacrificing fuel economy. The engine's torque delivery makes merging onto highways and navigating city traffic straightforward.
What's the Difference Between the Jetta and the Jetta GLI?

The Jetta GLI is the performance-focused variant. It replaces the standard 1.5 TSI engine with a 2.0 L 4-cylinder TSI turbocharged engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The GLI also includes:
- Sports suspension and Dynamic Chassis Control with adaptive damping
- Front differential lock and progressive steering
- Larger brakes: 340 mm ventilated front rotors and 300 mm solid rear rotors, both with red calipers
- GLI-specific exterior styling, including a sport bumper, dual exhaust, and GLI badging
The GLI is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed DSG automatic. While the standard Jetta focuses on efficiency and comfort, the GLI targets drivers who want sharper handling and more power.
What Technology Comes Standard on the Jetta?
Every 2026 Jetta includes:
- 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Wireless App-Connect (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay)
- Volkswagen Digital Cockpit: 8.0-inch configurable instrument cluster (Trendline); upgradeable to 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro on Comfortline, Highline, and Sport Package trims
- myVW mobile app with myVW+ connected vehicle services (3 years included for Remote Access; 8 years for Vehicle Health Report and Safe & Secure features)
- Rearview camera with static guidance lines
- Dual-zone electronic climate control
- USB Type-C ports with fast-charging capability
The myVW app allows remote start, lock/unlock, vehicle health monitoring, and DriveView driving insights—all accessible from your smartphone. This connectivity makes it easy to manage your Jetta remotely, from warming up the cabin on a cold Toronto morning to checking your vehicle's status before a road trip.
Which Jetta Trim Should I Choose?

Trendline is the entry-level trim with 16-inch Kiwano alloy wheels, cloth seating, heated front seats, and the 8.0-inch Digital Cockpit. It includes essential safety features like Front Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Side Assist with Blind Spot Monitoring.
Comfortline adds 17-inch Madrid alloy wheels, leatherette seating, a 6-way power-adjustable driver seat with memory function, heated front and outer rear seats, and the 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro. It also includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, wireless charging, and a Rail 2 Rail power sunroof.
Highline upgrades to 18-inch Phantom alloy wheels, leather seating with ventilation for front seats, and satellite navigation. It also adds the Volkswagen Premium Audio System with 6 speakers plus a subwoofer.
Sport Package (available on select trims) includes 18-inch Phantom black alloy wheels, interior ambient lighting (customizable up to 10 colours), Driving Profile Selection, and an electronic differential lock (XDS). It also features black exterior mirror housings and a black window surround for a sportier appearance.
The GLI comes in a single Autobahn trim level, available with either manual or DSG transmission. It includes all Highline features plus performance-specific upgrades like the sport suspension, red brake calipers, and GLI exterior styling.
How Much Cargo Space Does the Jetta Offer?
The 2026 Jetta provides 399 litres of trunk space. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats (standard on all trims) allow you to expand cargo capacity when needed. The Jetta GLI offers the same 399 litres, maintaining practicality despite its performance focus.
For context, this is enough space for several suitcases, grocery runs, or sports equipment. The trunk opening is wide and the load floor is low, making it easy to load and unload cargo.
What Safety Features Are Included?

All 2026 Jetta models include:
- Front Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection
- Side Assist (Active Blind Spot Monitor) with Rear Traffic Alert
- Hill Hold Assist
- Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring System
- Front and rear Side Curtain Protection with front side airbags
- LED reflector headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights
Comfortline and higher trims add Travel Assist, which combines Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, and Emergency Assist for semi-automated highway driving support. The GLI includes Travel Assist as standard, along with Light Assist for automatic high-beam control.
The 2026 Jetta has earned a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA, reflecting its performance in crash tests and the effectiveness of its safety systems.
What Are the Key Dimensions?
The 2026 Jetta measures:
- Length: 4,738 mm
- Width (excluding mirrors): 1,799 mm
- Width (with mirrors extended): 2,037 mm
- Height: 1,465 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,686 mm
- Curb weight: 1,361 kg
The GLI is slightly longer (4,747 mm) and sits lower (1,455 mm height) due to its sport suspension. Its curb weight is 1,474 kg with the manual transmission and 1,506 kg with the DSG.
These dimensions give the Jetta a compact footprint that's easy to manoeuvre in urban parking while still providing a spacious interior. The 2,686 mm wheelbase contributes to rear-seat legroom and a stable highway ride.
Key Takeaways

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Question
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Answer
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Fuel Economy (Standard Jetta)
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7.2 L/100 km combined
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Engine (Standard Jetta)
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1.5 L TSI, 158 hp, 184 lb-ft
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Engine (Jetta GLI)
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2.0 L TSI, 228 hp, 258 lb-ft
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Cargo Space
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399 litres
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Digital Cockpit
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8.0" (Trendline); 10.25" (Comfortline and up)
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myVW+ Included
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3 years Remote Access; 8 years Vehicle Health & Safety
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Safety Rating
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5-Star Overall (NHTSA)
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Explore the 2026 Jetta at Humberview Volkswagen
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta offers a clear balance of efficiency, technology, and German engineering. From the fuel-sipping 1.5 TSI to the performance-oriented GLI, each variant delivers a practical solution for drivers in Toronto and across Ontario.
Visit our team at Humberview Volkswagen in Toronto to explore the full Jetta lineup, compare trims in person, and experience the difference behind the wheel.