Volkswagen Jetta GLI 16v
21 MPG The 1992 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 16v is EPA-rated at 21 MPG combined (18 city / 26 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 714 gallons, $2286 a year in fuel, or $0.152 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 1987–1992 run it averages 22 MPG, falling by 2 MPG over 6 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.119 | $1190 | $1786 | $2381 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.143 | $1429 | $2143 | $2857 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.152 | $1524 | $2286 | $3048 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.167 | $1667 | $2500 | $3333 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.190 | $1905 | $2857 | $3810 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.214 | $2143 | $3214 | $4286 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.238 | $2381 | $3571 | $4762 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1992 | 21 MPG | 18 | 26 | $2950 | 423 | 1 |
| 1991 | 22 MPG | 19 | 26 | $2850 | 404 | 1 |
| 1990 | 22 MPG | 19 | 26 | $2850 | 404 | 1 |
| 1989 | 22 MPG | 19 | 26 | $2850 | 404 | 1 |
| 1988 | 22 MPG | 19 | 26 | $2850 | 404 | 1 |
| 1987 | 23 MPG | 21 | 26 | $2700 | 386 | 1 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 227 compact cars models tracked here, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI 16v ranks 164 on current figures, against a class average of 26.6 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Chrysler LeBaron (21.3), Chrysler Sebring Convertible (21.3), Ford Tempo (21.3), Mercury Topaz (21.3), BMW 525i (21.5).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 423 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 6.3 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Volkswagen Jetta GLI 16v get?
The 1992 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 16v is rated at 21 MPG combined by the EPA — 18 city and 26 highway. Across all 6 model years in the database it averages 22 MPG, ranging from 21 to 23 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Volkswagen Jetta GLI 16v cost in fuel per year?
At 21 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 714 gallons — roughly $2286 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.152 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 1992 model is $2950.
Has the Volkswagen Jetta GLI 16v become more efficient over time?
No — it has actually gone backwards, from 23 MPG in 1987 to 21 in 1992. That usually reflects the model growing heavier, more powerful, or moving upmarket rather than the engineering getting worse.
Is the Volkswagen Jetta GLI 16v efficient for its class?
It ranks 164 of 227 in the Compact Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 26.6 MPG. That is 5.6 worse than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.