1994-1995 Volkswagen Jetta III GLX 2.8L

Overview

The 1994-1995 Volkswagen Jetta III GLX represents a significant moment in the brand’s North American history, marking the introduction of the narrow-angle VR6 engine into the compact sedan segment. Built on the A3 platform, the Jetta III was designed to bridge the gap between economy transportation and entry-level luxury. The GLX trim served as the flagship of the lineup, distinguished primarily by its 2.8-liter six-cylinder engine, which provided a level of power and refinement rarely seen in the compact class during the mid-1990s.

Manufacturing for the North American market primarily took place at the Volkswagen de México plant in Puebla. The Jetta III featured a more aerodynamic profile compared to its predecessor, with a focus on improved structural rigidity and safety features, including standard dual airbags for the 1995 model year. The GLX variant was further equipped with sport-tuned suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, and upgraded interior appointments, positioning it as a direct competitor to more expensive sports sedans of the era.

While the Jetta III faced criticism for interior material quality compared to earlier German-built models, the GLX variant maintained a loyal following due to the unique acoustic signature and torque delivery of its VR6 powerplant. Today, these models are recognized by enthusiasts for their tuning potential and their role in establishing the “hot sedan” segment for Volkswagen in the United States. The model remains a popular choice for those seeking a mechanical, analog driving experience from the 1990s.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Jetta III GLX
Model Year	1994-1995
Generation	A3 (Mk3)
Trim	GLX
Body Style	4-door Sedan
Vehicle Segment	Compact
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	A3
Assembly Plant	Puebla, Mexico
Country of Origin	Mexico
Production Start	1993
Production End	1998
VIN Identifier	3VW
Base MSRP	$19,995
Destination Charge	–
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion
Engine Family	VR6
Engine Name	AAA
Engine Code	AAA
Engine Configuration	V6 (15-degree narrow angle)
Displacement	2.8 Liters
Bore x Stroke	81.0 mm x 90.3 mm
Compression Ratio	10.0:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Valve Train	SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	6.0 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	5W-40
Horsepower	172 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque	173 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Redline	6500 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Manual 5-spd
Final Drive Ratio	3.39:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	16
EPA Highway MPG	23
EPA Combined MPG	19
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	–
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	14.5
Estimated Driving Range	–
Annual Fuel Cost	–
CO₂ Emissions	–
Greenhouse Gas Score	–
Smog Rating	–
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	7.5 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	15.8 seconds
Top Speed	135 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	–
Lateral Acceleration	–
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	172.8
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	66.7
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	56.1
Wheelbase (in)	97.4
Front Track (in)	57.7
Rear Track (in)	56.5
Ground Clearance (in)	–
Curb Weight (lbs)	2850
GVWR (lbs)	–
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	–
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	88
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	14.0
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	34.1 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	–
NHTSA Frontal Crash	–
NHTSA Side Crash	–
NHTSA Rollover	–
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	–
Side Impact	–
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	None
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	No
Audio System	AM/FM Cassette
Speaker Count	6
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	3-year/36,000-mile
Powertrain Warranty	–
Corrosion Warranty	10-year/unlimited-mile
Roadside Assistance	–
Complimentary Maintenance	–
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Wolfsburg, Germany
Transmission Supplier	Volkswagen
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	–
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	–
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

## Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The 1994-1995 Jetta GLX is highly regarded for its robust VR6 engine, which remains the primary draw for enthusiasts today. Reliability is generally solid regarding the engine block itself, though owners should prioritize maintenance of the cooling system, specifically the plastic thermostat housing and radiator fans, which are prone to failure. Electrical gremlins related to window regulators and door lock actuators are common issues for this generation. In the current used market, finding a clean, unmodified example is increasingly difficult, making well-preserved units desirable for collectors. While it lacks the modern safety and connectivity features of contemporary vehicles, the GLX offers a unique driving character that balances daily usability with a distinct, performance-oriented engine note.