Volkswagen recently unveiled the 2019 Jetta, and the itch to see the sportier version is getting worse day by day. Guess our prayers just got answered. Speaking to Autoblog, Volkswagen Brazil’s Head of Design, José Carlos Pavone, hinted that the Jetta GLI might be coming soon. And, by coming soon, he means the upcoming Detroit Motor Show in January.

It Should Arrive Without Much Drama

Pavone told Autoblog, “I estimate that Vento GLI could be presented in January, during the Detroit Show." He continued, “The sports version was specifically designed for the tastes of the North American market.” While providing a few more details, Pavone also mentioned that the car would have unique five-spoke wheels and a black roof. Will this be exclusive to the Southern Continent, or will we get it as well? Some online sources suggest that these could make it onto the production cars in the U.S. as well.

Autoblog0}

Note: 2016 Volkswagen Jetta GLI pictured here.

Some earlier reports suggested that the GLI will use the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine in the GTI. It produces 220 horses and 258 pound-feet of torque and mates to either a six-speed manual, or a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission system. The outgoing GLI, on the other hand, produces 210 ponies and 207 pound-feet of torque.

Other changes should include the Golf’s multi-link independent rear suspension, while the standard Jetta gets the softer torsion-beam setup. Coupled with additional power, this should make the Jetta GLI all the more engaging and fun to drive.

In all likelihood, the Jetta GLI will go on sale in the first quarter of 2019. Are you a fan of the Jetta GLI? Let us know in the comments section below.

Further Reading

Read our full review on the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta.

Read our driven review on the 2017 Volkswagen GLI.

Read our full review on the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta.

Read our driven review on the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta.