You may remember about six years ago, a modified Volkswagen Jetta hybrid with 300 horsepower set a land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats with a speed of 186 mph. In order to capture a new record and show off what will eventually become the engine for the upcoming Jetta GLI, VW built another modified Jetta with even more power. This new Jetta GLI packs 600 hp and a slippery body with a drag coefficient of just 0.27. In order to break the record, the car needed to travel over 208 mph.

After several attempts, including one where the car broke, VW managed to set a new land speed record of 210.16 mph. "Achieving this speed at Bonneville is a demonstration of the quality, durability, power, and efficiency of the Volkswagen TSI engine series and the stability and aerodynamic efficiency of the all-new 2019 Jetta," said Hinrich J. Woebcken, President and CEO, VolkswagenGroup of America. "This record underlines the sporty credentials of our all-new Jetta and also gives a hint at the future of the GLI model since this car uses a modified version of the GLI's powerful EA888, 2.0-liter TSI engine."

In addition to the massive engine boost, the car was also fitted with a lowered suspension, special tires, and a limited-slip differential. Inside, the Jetta's interior has been stripped away and replaced with a roll cage, racing seat, harness, and a fire suppression system. To help slow the car down, the Jetta was also given a parachute system. This is a massive accomplishment for VW and we can't wait to see how lessons from this awesome experience reach production in the new Jetta GLI.