The Volkswagen Jetta GLI arrived for the first time on the North American market in 1984, and to celebrate its 30th anniversary, the company announced today the special edition Edition 30. The model will be offered in two trim levels: Edition 30 and Edition 30 with Navigation, and will be put on sale in early 2014.

When compared to a base Jetta ->ke306 GLI, the new Edition 30 version will be distinguished by a red trim on the front grille, a trunk lid-mounted spoiler, "Edition 30" badges and a set of 18-inch, “Laguna” aluminum-alloy wheels. Buyers can order the Jetta GLI Edition 30 in just in four exterior colors: Deep Black Metallic, Pure White, Tornado Red and Reflex Silver Metallic.

The interior will be distinguished from normal Jetta GLIs by V-Tex leatherette seats with contrasting red accents, a new steering wheel with the same red contrast stitching. There will also be carbon-look trim inlays; "Edition 30" kickplates and floormats with red stitching.

Depending on the trim level, the new GLI Edition 30 offers as standard feature: leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, Premium VIII touchscreen radio with SiriusXM Satellite Radio or RNS 315 touchscreen navigation system.

Click past the jump for a short history on Jetta GLI's presence on the North American market.

2014 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Edition 30

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Edition 30
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 200
  • Torque: 207
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Jetta GLI's History in the North American market

Volkswagen unveiled the Jetta GLI in 1984, while the Jetta was in its first generation, and this new trim added lots of drivetrain features and improvements over the GTI version. The model was powered by a 90-horsepower, fuel-injected, 1.8-liter engine combined with a close-ratio, five-speed transmission, sport suspension with front and rear anti-roll bars, and vented front disc brakes.

The GLI version was distinguished by the rest of the lineup by a rear spoiler, and body-side moldings. Additionally, the interior featured a leather-wrapped, four-spoke steering wheel and shift knob, sport seats, and distinctive upholstery and interior trim.

Since then, the Jetta went through six different generations, and each time Volkswagen offered a GLI version. Things evolved over the years, and now the current generation is powered by a 200-horsepower, 2.0-liter mated to either a close-ratio, six-speed manual or DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission.