Volkswagen Shows the Jetta GLI Performance Concept at the SEMA Show

• This concept is built on a modified 2022 Jetta GLI Autobahn with a manual transmission.

• Modifications to the engine increase its output to 350 horsepower and 372 lb-ft of torque.

• Special wheels, seats, fenders, suspension tuning, and a matte-black wrap complete the package.

Like many other automakers, Volkswagen chose to display performance vehicles at this year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

One of the eight vehicles on the stand is the Jetta GLI Performance concept, an extensively modified version of the standard GLI found in VW dealerships.

Starting with a 2022 Jetta GLI Autobahn equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, the automaker’s Design Center in California made many styling and performance changes to the compact sedan.

For example, the fenders were all widened by 0.8 inches in order to accommodate wider tires, which are mounted on 20-inch Rotiform wheels fitted with custom aero covers adorned with a hexagon pattern that is found all over the car.

Indeed, the Jetta GLI Performance Concept is partially covered in a matte-black wrap that fades to the factory red paint towards the rear while also including many hexagonal shapes on the sides and the trunk.

Under the skin, the changes bring the 2.0L engine’s output up to 350 horsepower and 372 lb-ft of torque from the standard 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This is achieved via a RacingLine performance package and a thermal management system.

In order to handle this increase in power, the concept is also fitted with a carbon-ceramic big brake kit from RacingLine and a TrackSport coil-over suspension kit from the same manufacturer.

In addition, a full complement of RacingLine underbody braces has been installed to make the chassis more rigid and to ensure the suspension geometry stays accurate.

Inside, the Jetta GLI Performance Concept replaces both of its front seats with custom Recaro buckets that feature a hexagonal pattern in black and red that is reminiscent of the exterior treatment.

This concept is not destined for production, but all of the performance upgrades it showcases are available to buy from their suppliers, which makes it possible to achieve the same level of performance with any 2022 Jetta GLI.