
2023 Volkswagen Jetta Trim Levels Comparison
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If you're stuck trying to choose between the 2023 VW Jetta trim levels, your head might be spinning. Not only do they come in at various prices, but they have different features and aesthetics as well. All of them live up to the iconic Jetta name, so it's a matter of deciding which is perfect for you.
If you're interested in a new VW Jetta for sale, you can visit Gunther Volkswagen Delray Beach for some help with this decision. Otherwise, keep reading for a closer look at each of these trim levels before you head to our dealership for a test drive.

What Are the Available Volkswagen Jetta Trim Levels?
You have four different options when it comes to the available 2023 Volkswagen Jetta trim levels. These choices leave a lot of room for adjustment, as each model has subtle changes that make it unique, and it can produce a more challenging – but still enjoyable – final decision.
Here are the four available 2023 VW Jetta trim levels:
2023 Volkswagen Jetta Trim Levels Explained
What is the difference between the different trim levels? Well, you have to look at the exterior design, interior features, and what lies underneath each hood. Together, these combine to create distinctive versions of the same comfortable, sporty sedan, and each aspect is something you must consider compared to your wish list.
2023 Volkswagen Jetta S
The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta S is your value-packed entry-level model. When you look at the exterior, you will notice 16-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, LED daytime running lights, power-operated side mirrors, and automatic headlights with the coming/leaving home feature.
The standard features of this entry point to the Volkswagen Jetta trim levels include soft cloth upholstery, an air conditioning system with an enhanced filter, a six-way manually adjustable driver's seat, and cruise control. It also contains technology features like the VW Digital Cockpit, USB-C ports for newer devices, a 6.5-inch color touch-screen infotainment display, Bluetooth® connectivity, and Volkswagen Car-Net capabilities.
Safety is well accounted for no matter which of the 2023 VW Jetta trim levels you choose, as even this base model is equipped with forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor, pedestrian monitoring, the Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS), a rear-view camera, a crash-optimized front end, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
A look under the hood will reveal a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual transmission. This engine will give you 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The equipped drivetrain is front-wheel drive, and if you're looking for easy, smooth-shifting action, you can choose to upgrade to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Keep in mind this is the base model, and the other 2023 VW Jetta trim levels build on these great features. But even then, the VW Jetta S gets you there and back in comfort and with excellent fuel efficiency.
2023 Volkswagen Jetta Sport
The Volkswagen Jetta Sport is designed to upgrade your style, performance, and comfort. It transforms your Jetta sedan's exterior with 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, stylish sport bumpers, exquisite black-painted side mirror caps, a black grille, black window trim, and heated, power-operated side mirror functionality.
On the inside, you'll find sport seats with comfort-enhancing side bolsters and eye-catching contrast stitching. Otherwise, you'll find all the great tech, comfort, and safety features of the 2023 Jetta S trim level.
The engine and drivetrain are the same across all the VW Jetta trim levels. However, the VW Jetta Sport is special due to its standard XDS Cross Differential System for precise, agile handling during turns.
2023 Volkswagen Jetta SE
Next up for the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta trim levels is the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SE. It has the same exterior features as the VW Jetta Sport trim but adds rain-sensing windshield wipers.
When you look at the interior, a few noticeable changes are the Climatronic dual-zone automatic climate control, heated six-way power front seats with adjustable lumbar support, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, keyless entry with push-button start, and premium V-Tex leatherette upholstery.
All of the standard safety features of the VW Jetta S are here, except the SE trim does add a travel assist feature, lane assistance, and an emergency assist.
The drivetrain and engine in this trim are the same as before. However, the transmission in the Jetta SE is different as it is an eight-speed automatic with Tiptronic® shifting and sport mode. But, of course, if you're looking for the ultimate in sporty sedan thrills, the VW Jetta GLI and its high-performance 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine will satisfy. The GLI is essentially a different category of VW Jetta rather than being considered a trim.
It is quite a leap from the base model in terms of functionality, making the price well worth it for the luxury and extra safety in your VW Jetta.
2023 Volkswagen Jetta SEL
The top-of-the-line 2023 Volkswagen Jetta SEL – not counting the more powerful engine of the Jetta GLI – puts you on a deluxe path as the designers have added more features and changes to enhance this model's overall design. You will realize it's well worth the price as you explore the standard features. It adds distinct 17-inch metallic alloy wheels, LED projector headlights, a power tilting/sliding panoramic sunroof, and heated windshield washer nozzles in case you find yourself in an area with inclement winter weather.
Regarding the interior, the price increase becomes clear with additions like 10-color customizable interior ambient lighting, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), an auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror, heated/ventilated front seats, a heated leather-trimmed steering wheel, and heated rear outboard seats. The technology becomes even more advanced with two front USB-C data ports, a BeatsAudio® sound system, an upgraded 8-inch touch-screen infotainment display, remote start, a wireless smartphone charger, and the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro.
Safety also sees an upgrade with the addition of lane assist and high beam control. When combined with the other safety features, you'll feel a new level of confidence every time you head out on an exciting road trip or just to the grocery store.
Once again, the engine and drivetrain are the same as other 2023 VW Jetta configurations, but you'll see a performance upgrade, thanks to selectable driver modes, including Sport, Eco, Standard, and Custom.
Volkswagen Jetta Trim Level Comparison Chart |
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Trim | MPG (Combined/City/Highway)1 | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seating | |
S | 34 / 29 / 42 | 1.5L TSI 158 hp I-4 Turbocharged | 6-Speed Manual/8-Speed Automatic w/ Tiptronic | Front-Wheel Drive | 5 | |
Sport | 34 / 29 / 42 | 1.5L TSI 158 hp I-4 Turbocharged | 6-Speed Manual/8-Speed Automatic w/ Tiptronic | Front-Wheel Drive | 5 | |
SE | 33 / 29 / 40 | 1.5L TSI 158 hp I-4 Turbocharged | 8-Speed Automatic w/ Tiptronic | Front-Wheel Drive | 5 | |
SEL | 33 / 29 / 40 | 1.5L TSI 158 hp I-4 Turbocharged | 8-Speed Automatic w/ Tiptronic | Front-Wheel Drive | 5 |

Volkswagen Jetta Packages
When it comes to available packages for the Volkswagen Jetta, you have some great options. You can upgrade your wheels and add carrier bars to the roof, among other accessories.
You can also add a Cold Weather Package to select lower Volkswagen Jetta trim levels, which will give you heated rear seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated windshield washer nozzles. It is also possible to add a Driver Assistance package to the base model VW Jetta S with all of the advanced safety features of the higher models.

Discover the 2023 VW Jetta Configurations at Gunther Volkswagen Delray Beach
Do you want to take a closer look at your favorite 2023 VW Jetta trim levels? Visit us at Gunther Volkswagen Delray Beach, and we will gladly show them off to you.
We also have a selection of pre-owned VW Jetta models available if those strike your fancy. Schedule a test drive today at Gunther Volkswagen Delray Beach, then sign on the dotted line for your favorite Volkswagen Jetta trim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did this Volkswagen Jetta trim levels comparison stir up some questions inside of your head? Read on to see some answers to common customer inquiries that might give you some insight into your own.
Which Jetta trim is the best?
Overall, this is a subjective answer, based on your financial situation and personal vehicle needs. However, the Volkswagen Jetta SEL is the best, as it is the top trim level, although many will find that the Volkswagen Jetta SEL has everything they need. The Jetta GLI is even more impressive, with racing-inspired performance.
If you can go without leather upholstery and an exterior valance, then you can probably settle for the lower model and feel great about your decision.
What is the difference between the Jetta SE and SEL?
If you look more closely at the Volkswagen Jetta trim levels of the VW Jetta SE and VW Jetta SEL, you will notice several differences. It will have the Cold Weather package already included in the price and bigger wheels on top of it. The interior has been elevated with incredible technology, premium comfort, improved audio, and advanced safety features.
Its performance will also be different as it provides you with four selectable drive modes, while the Volkswagen Jetta SE only gives you a Sport mode option.
What does GLI mean on a Jetta?
The main difference between your fundamental Volkswagen Jetta and the more advanced Volkswagen Jetta GLI comes with its performance. The VW Jetta GLI will provide you with a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with direct fuel injection and 228 horsepower.
You will also be able to add the DCC adaptive chassis control if you want the ability to alter the firmness of your suspension. The interior and exterior design elements are upgraded as well and give off a sportier persona.
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1EPA estimates only. Your results will vary.