The Difference Between GLS & GLX
by Brian VaughanVolkswagen used the GLS and GLX names to represent trim levels in multiple vehicle models. The four-door Passat sedan was the most recent to use these names, as both trim levels were included for the 2005 model year. The GLX featured a more powerful engine, though the GLS was less expensive and got better gas mileage.
Engines
The GLS featured a 1.8-liter in-line, four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower at 5,900 revolutions per minute. The compression ratio was 9.3-to-1 and the torque rated at 166 foot-pounds per 1,950 rpm. The bore and stroke measured 3.19 inches and 3.40 inches. The GLX had a 2.8-liter V-6 engine with 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. The engine torque was 206 foot-pounds at 3,200 rpm and the compression ratio was 10.6-to-1. The bore and stroke were 3.25 inches and 3.40 inches.
Cost and Fuel
The GLS and GLX both measured 185.2 inches long, 68.7 inches wide and 57.6 inches tall. The wheelbase was 106.4 inches and the ground clearance was 5.8 inches. The GLS took 205/55R16 model tires, while the GLX took 225/45R17 model tires. The GLS weighed 3,351 lb. with an automatic overdrive transmission and 3,241 lb. with a manual overdrive transmission. The GLX weighed 3,536 lb. with an automatic transmission and 3,413 lb. with a manual transmission.
Cost and Fuel
The GLS originally retailed for $24,380. In 2011, Kelley Blue Book values the car between $8,700 and $10,250. The GLX had a retail price of $29,790. Kelley Blue Book values the GLX between $10,100 and $11,300 in 2011. The GLS and GLX each had 16.4 gallon fuel tanks and used regular or premium unleaded gasoline. The GLS got 22 miles per gallon in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The GLX got 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Features
The GLS came with a full-sized spare tire, while the GLX did not. The GLX had windshield wipers that activated when they sensed rain and rear view mirrors that adjusted for the time of day. These features were not available in the GLS. The GLX came standard with wood trim and a leather steering wheel, while these features were optional for the GLS. The GLX also featured heated and leather seats, two features that were optional for the GLS.
References
Writer Bio
Brian Vaughan is a freelance writer based in Springfield, Mo. He has been writing short stories, reviews and essays for over eight years and is currently pursuing a degree in professional writing at Missouri State University.
