Updates for The 2026 VW Jetta

The Volkswagen Jetta is a popular choice for compact sedan drivers in the Marion area. It’s practical, reliable, and comfortable. After a significant refresh for the 2025 model year, the 2026 VW Jetta arrives with some minor updates. Read on to find out more about the latest Jetta features, trims, and powertrains.

2026 VW Jetta Engine Performance and Efficiency Updates

The 2026 Jetta has the same engine under its hood as the 2025 model. The powertrain combines power and efficiency into one package that’s fun to drive, whether you’re on I-55 heading toward St. Louis or driving south on I-57 on your way toward Shawnee National Forest for the day.

The 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine delivers 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It works with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission that, thanks to special tuning for 2026, helps it get up to 42 mpg on the highway and 31 mpg in the city. These numbers are a slight improvement from the 2025 model, which will get 40 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city.

Advanced Safety Features and Driver Assistance Technology

Every 2026 VW Jetta comes with Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE suite of advanced safety features. This bundle includes features designed to enhance safety and convenience on every drive. The systems you’ll get include:

• The active blind spot monitor will alert you when someone is in your blind spot and provide steering assist if necessary.
• Adaptive cruise control uses sensors to detect vehicles in front of you and will adjust your speed.
• Front assist monitors the road ahead and alerts you of a potential collision.
• Lane assist prevents the Jetta from crossing traffic lines when traveling above 36 mph.
• Rear traffic alert signals the presence of a car or motorcycle behind you when you’re reversing.
• Travel assist offers steering support and helps with speeding up and slowing down.
• Emergency assist will help bring the Jetta to a stop and connect with assistance if something happens and the driver can no longer control the car.

In addition to these systems that are part of IQ.Drive, every VW Jetta comes with a tire pressure monitoring system and a rearview camera.

2026 VW Jetta Trim Levels and Feature Breakdown

Volkswagen offers the 2026 Jetta in four different trim levels and a sporty GLI model. Each trim is well-equipped with convenience and comfort features.

Base S Trim Standard Equipment

The S trim starts the lineup with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Inside, dual-zone automatic climate control makes it easy to keep everyone comfortable, and high-quality cloth upholstery gives it an upscale look and feel.

Sport Trim Features

The Sport trim stands out from the other trim levels with bold exterior styling and some performance upgrades. Volkswagen’s XDS Cross Differential System improves traction when accelerating and cornering by acting as an electronic differential lock. It has an integrated light bar in the front grille and 17-inch machined alloy wheels. Inside, the Sport adds a black headliner, black interior elements, and heated front seats.

Mid-Level SE Trim Upgrades

The SE builds on the S with upscale amenities. It adds a power-adjustable driver’s seat, CloudTex simulated leather upholstery, and remote engine start. Keyless access with push-button start adds to the convenience when you need to get in the car with your hands full.

Premium SEL Trim Features

The SEL has the most comfort features in the lineup. A heated steering wheel and heated seats in front and back will keep you warm on chilly Marion, IL, winter days. The standard sunroof brightens the cabin during the day and adds an open, airy feel at night. Leather upholstery comes standard in this Jetta, along with ventilated front seats and adjustable ambient interior lighting.

Sport GLI Performance Variant Updates

The GLI is a high-performance version of the Jetta. Power comes from a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder gas engine with 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission will make a scenic drive on the Ohio River Scenic Byway (or even the Historic Route 66 from St. Louis to Chicago) even more fun.

The GLI Autobahn comes with 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-season tires. It has a sport-tuned suspension and upgraded front brakes. You’ll get all the comforts of home in the GLI, including heated and ventilated front sport seats, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof.

Connectivity and Infotainment System Enhancements

No matter which 2026 VW Jetta you have, it will come equipped with the latest infotainment and connectivity features. An eight-inch touchscreen comes in the S. Sync your phone using the standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The SE upgrades to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easier to connect when you get in. No cords are required. You can keep the cords to a minimum thanks to the wireless charger. When you want to turn up the volume, the nine-speaker Beats Audio system in the SEL delivers crisp, clear sound. This Jetta also comes with a larger digital gauge cluster and an integrated navigation system.

Get The Volkswagen Jetta at Volkswagen of Marion

Is it time to upgrade your current car? Come see us at Volkswagen of Marion. We have the latest Jetta in stock and a team here to answer your questions about 2026 upgrades and features. Stop by and see us today. We’ll get you out on the road for a test drive so you can experience this compact sedan firsthand.