The number of cars available with manual transmissions continues to decline with Volkswagen announcing that the 2018 Jetta GLI won’t be offered with a stick-shift.
Ever since the Jetta GLI landed on U.S. soil, a manual transmission has been on offer alongside a six-speed dual-clutch. However, for 2018, the German automaker has decided to make the dual-clutch the only option due to the poor take rate for the manual.
While speaking with CarsDirect, Volkswagen spokesman Mark Gillies said approximately 30 per cent of Jetta GLI’s sold have the manual, well below the 50 per cent take rate in the Golf GTI.
Beyond the removal of one gearbox option, the Jetta GLI remains largely unchanged for the 2018 model year. As a result, it continues to utilize a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 210 hp and 207 lb-ft (280 Nm) of torque. Prices start at $30,395, a $1,680 premium over the 2017 model.
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