Archived model-year dossier
2026 Volkswagen GLI
The 2026 Volkswagen GLI's FuelEconomy.gov record holds 2 EPA certification records across 1 model/option label (GLI), spanning Front-Wheel Drive drivetrain and Regular fuel type across 1 engine (2L 4-cyl SIDI). EPA classifies it under Compact Cars vehicle class, built on Conventional powertrain technology. Across those configurations, expect combined efficiency of 29 MPG/MPGe, an estimated annual fuel cost of $2,150/yr. The site covers 3 model years of the Volkswagen GLI, 2025 through 2027, and this is the 2026. Every figure on this page belongs to the 2026 model year alone.
Configurations2
Model/option labels1
Combined efficiency29 MPG/MPGe
Electric rangeNot listed
Decision answers3
Trim-by-trim specifications
The 2026 Volkswagen GLI: 1 trim compared.
Kelley Blue Book specifications, one row per trim.
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drive | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | EPA city / hwy / comb | Seats | Basic warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autobahn | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo) | Manual, 6-Spd | FWD | 228 | 258 | 26 / 36 / 29 mpg | 5 | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
| Trim | Curb weight | Length | Height | Wheelbase | Ground clearance | Turning circle | Fuel tank | Front headroom | Front legroom | Tires |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autobahn | 3,247 lb | 186.9 in | 57.3 in | 105.6 in | 5.2 in | 35.8 ft | 13.2 gal | 38.5 in | 41.1 in | P225/45HR18 |
Equipment by trim
Which 2026 Volkswagen GLI trim has what.
Std is standard, Opt is optional, a dash means Kelley Blue Book lists it as not available.
| Equipment | Autobahn |
|---|---|
| Safety | |
| Anti-theft alarm | Std |
| Blind-spot alert | Std |
| Child door locks | Std |
| Child-seat anchors | Std |
| Forward collision warning | Std |
| Hill-start assist | Std |
| Pedestrian detection with automatic braking | Std |
| Rearview camera | Std |
| Electronic stability control | Std |
| Technology | |
| Bluetooth audio streaming | Std |
| Bluetooth | Std |
| Hands-free calling | Std |
| IPod interface | Std |
| Built-in internet access | Std |
| Premium audio system | Std |
| Satellite radio | Std |
| Apple CarPlay or Android Auto | Std |
| Steering-wheel audio controls | Std |
| Touchscreen | Std |
| Voice recognition | Std |
| Comfort | |
| Heated front seats | Std |
| Heated steering wheel | Std |
| Heated mirrors | Std |
| Power driver's seat | Std |
| Leather seats | Std |
| Leather-wrapped steering wheel | Std |
| Tilt steering wheel | Std |
| Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel | Std |
| Cup holders | Std |
| Folding rear seat | Std |
| Exterior and convenience | |
| Alloy wheels | Std |
| Power windows | Std |
| Remote keyless entry | Std |
| Push-button start | Std |
| Cruise control | Std |
| Rain-sensing wipers | Std |
| Limited-slip differential | Std |
Complete certification table
2 configuration records.
Model-specific answer center
3 answers for this exact family-year.
Q01What changed on the 2026 Volkswagen GLI versus the 2025 Volkswagen GLI?
Model year
Against the 2025 Volkswagen GLI: Midpoint combined efficiency moved from 29.5 to 29.0 MPG/MPGe.
Source: FuelEconomy.gov certification records for both model years
Q02What is the MSRP of the 2026 Volkswagen Gli?
Specifications
MotorTrend lists the 2026 Volkswagen Gli at an MSRP of $25,270.
Source: MotorTrend model-year specification page
Q03What size wheels does the 2026 Volkswagen GLI have?
Wheels and tires
The 2026 Volkswagen GLI's wheel diameter is 18 inches on every trim. Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications. The 2025 model year has the same figure.
Source: Kelley Blue Book vehicle specifications
Live NHTSA evidence
Current federal safety records for 2026 Volkswagen GLI.
Exact-vehicle evidence desk
Check the exact vehicle, not just the model name.
Recalls, build data and service applicability are determined at VIN level, not by model name.
01 · NHTSASafety ratings, recalls, complaints and manufacturer communicationsExact model-year search → (opens in a new tab)02 · NHTSACheck open safety recalls by 17-character VINOfficial VIN remedy status → (opens in a new tab)03 · vPICDecode manufacturer-submitted vehicle attributesInternal VIN tool →04 · EPAQuery another year, make, model and option1984–current browser →
FuelEconomy.gov data source (opens in a new tab) · Methodology
Other model years
Compare the Volkswagen GLI across model years.
Ownership desk
Problems and maintenance decisions worth checking next.
Driver assistance and infotainmentKeyless entry or push-button start does not detect the keySoon →Towing and traileringTow vehicle sags at the rear when the trailer is connectedDepends →Diesel ownershipDiesel particulate filter regeneration messageSoon →Diesel ownershipBlack smoke from a modern diesel under loadSoon →Body, water and noiseRattle or clunk over bumpsSoon →Seasonal and storageCar will not move after the parking brake was left appliedSoon →