Volkswagen aims to set a new speed record with a very special Jetta

A brand’s prestige and reputation depend on numerous factors, but on many occasions these can be affected by winning certain awards or records. Volkswagen has managed to reach the top with the I.D R record at Pikes Peak and at the Goodwood Festival, but the German firm is still not satisfied and is looking for more. This time its new target is speed, where it aims to set a new record with this modified Volkswagen Jetta. The German saloon will compete in the BGC/G category, with the intention of reaching the highest possible speed and taking first place home.

Volkswagen has managed to offer a new Jetta with a more striking design and technology on a par with contemporary vehicles, but they wanted to go further. In the United States, the German saloon’s main market, the GLI variant of the Jetta has not yet been presented, but Volkswagen has wanted to treat us to this version that is much more radical and features some characteristics typical of a racing car.

Aesthetically, we find a vehicle designed to fulfil the task of reaching a top speed reserved for the most exclusive supercars. At the same time, low weight is another key factor allowing the Volkswagen Jetta to exceed the 330 km/h that its smaller sibling, the Beetle, reached at Lake Bonneville. Now it is the turn of the German saloon, which has inherited numerous components from the Beetle but improved to enhance its record and keep the record in its own territory.

This model was developed by Volkswagen America, who have fitted a lighter chassis, a limited-slip differential, specific wheels and tyres and two parachutes at the rear to optimise braking. However, the main protagonist is found under the bonnet of the Jetta, since the engine will be responsible for making the saloon reach an unheard-of speed.

Inside the Jetta we find a four-cylinder TSI engine capable of producing more than 500 CV of power, a figure typical of high-flying supercars. This powerplant has managed to propel the Volkswagen saloon up to 335 km/h, a figure more than enough to beat the current record. However, the German firm claims it could exceed 340 km/h with the upgrades it incorporates.

Either way, the Volkswagen Jetta is ready to attempt to reach a speed range typical of genuine supercars, thus showing the world the capability of other segments. It will be between 11 and 17 August that the German firm attempts to beat the record in California, the location where the Jetta will have to give its best.