Volkswagen prices 2019 Jetta GLI from $26,890

The range-topping Autobahn will start at just over $30,000 with a stick.

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI will start at under $27,000, Volkswagen announced Wednesday, undercutting the iconic GTI by roughly $1,000. The manual-transmission Jetta GLI S starts at $25,995 (plus a destination charge of $895).

For that, you get the EA888 TSI engine, making 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque--18 more horsepower and 41 lb-ft more than the previous GLI--plus the VAQ mechanical limited-slip differential, beefy front brakes (shared with the GTI and Golf R) and variable-ratio electric power steering. Standard feature content includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, LED exterior lighting, and a host of driver aids.

Stepping up to the 35th Anniversary Edition ($27,890 with destination) gets you Volkswagen's DCC adaptive suspension system and a unique exterior treatment. The range-topping Autobahn starts at $30,090 (again, with destination) adds Volkswagen's user-configurable "digital cockpit" display system, a 400-watt BeatsAudio sound system, a panoramic sunroof, leather seating and more.

Adding the seven-speed DSG transmission is an $800 option regardless of trim. Volkswagen will begin stocking 2019 Jetta GLIs this spring.