2025 Jetta and GLI Pack Big Value in Updates

DEXTER, MI – In its 40^th year in the U.S. market, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta continues to be a reliable and well-rounded, handsome, competent compact sedan, building on the strengths of its predecessors while introducing some welcome updates.

The German automaker’s top-selling passenger car, and third best-selling model in the U.S., VW has focused on enhancing the driving experience, upgrading interior quality and providing more advanced technology features, all while maintaining the Jetta's reputation for solid performance and big value for the money.

Design and Driving Chops

The 2025 Jetta retains its understated design language: clean lines, sleek profile and subtle chrome accents give it a polished look that appeals to those who prefer a more classic style over flashy designs, and a sedan over a hatch or utility shape. The front grille has been slightly refreshed, now featuring a more prominent VW badge and sharper headlight designs, giving the car a bit more presence on the road. The Jetta remains a car that fits comfortably in both urban and suburban settings, with an aesthetic that is likely to age gracefully.

The carryover 158-hp turbocharged 1.5L inline 4-cyl. now mates exclusively with an 8-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission in the Jetta (non-GLI) lineup. A standard transmission is no longer offered on the Jetta, but you can still get it by trading up to the GLI performance trim.

VW likes to talk up even its lower-priced offerings for their German engineering. And it has dialed in some legit Fahrvergnügen (driving pleasure) in the Jetta update. The engine’s 184 lb.-ft. (249 Nm) of torque is realized at 1,750 rpm, so it is torquier than say, a base Toyota Corolla at 139 hp and 126 lb.-ft. (171 Nm) of torque and Buick Envista at 137 hp and 162 lb.-ft. (220 Nm). So, it does drive better than some key competitors. Even better for the extra ponies and power versus the competition is that it should reach 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.1 seconds, with a highly respectable 41 highway mpg  (5.7 L/100 km)  – without being a hybrid.

The Jetta SE gets new 17-in. aluminum alloy wheels, while the SEL and GLI get 18-in. running shoes.

The Base S with automatic transmission has an EPA-estimated 31 mpg (7.6 L/100 km) in the city and 41 mpg highway. The Jetta Sport, SE and SEL trims have an EPA-estimated 29 mpg (8.1 L/100 km) in the city and 40 mpg (5.9 L/100 km) highway. Remember when a manual transmission gave you an extra mile or two of fuel economy? No more. The GLI with a 6-speed manual we tested gets 26 mpg (9.0 L/100 km) in the city and 37 mpg (6.4 L/100 km) highway.

Except for the base Jetta S, all 2025 models now have the 0.6-in. (15-mm) lower suspension previously reserved for the Sport trim. This has a very marginal impact on driving performance, but it saves complexity at the plant. The SEL trim comes with selectable drive modes, and we found a noticeable change in damping in the Sport mode, so we’d use Normal on extended highway driving only.

Interior and Comfort

VW has made significant strides in improving the interior of the Jetta for 2025. The cabin materials are noticeably upgraded, with soft-touch surfaces and high-quality finishes that make the interior feel more premium than in previous models. The seats are comfortable, with ample support for long drives, and the overall ergonomics are excellent. The infotainment system is intuitive, featuring a larger touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a more responsive interface. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom, and the trunk offers plenty of cargo space:  14.1 cu.-ft. (399L), versus 13.1 cu.-ft. (371L) for Corolla. The Jetta also has standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats.

Listen to the WardsAuto Podcast about the 2025 Jetta and ID. Buzz.

GLI Fun

For those seeking a bit more excitement, the Jetta GLI is the performance-oriented variant. It comes with a more powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine, delivering 228 hp, 258 lb.-ft. (350 Nm) of torque and sharper handling, thanks to a sport-tuned suspension and more responsive steering. The GLI, equipped with a premium Beats audio system, comes with either the 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT. It’s up to the buyer and costs the same.  It feels lively and engaging on the backroads of Washtenaw County, MI, where we tempted the local constabulary to curb our enthusiasm for the smooth shifter, making it a great option for enthusiasts who want a bit more spice in their daily drive.

The electronically controlled limited-slip differential manages the torque. The GLI is equipped with 13.4-in. front brake rotors and three-way-adjustable adaptive dampers. Get to 60 mph in an expected 6.0 seconds.

A new light bar connects the updated LED lighting elements, the 18-in. wheels have a new look and the G-L-I letters are on the door. There’s a new trunk lid and taillights that run the width of the rear deck.

The GLI’s interior sports the new, better-looking dash of the Jetta lineup that houses the 10.3-in. (21-cm) digital cluster and 8.0-in. (20.3-cm) infotainment screen. The console area also includes an inductive charging pad. The dual-zone climate system is now a touch-capacitive human interface that works just fine. The loss of knobs is okay.

The Jetta GLI comes only with a one-stop-shopping Autobahn trim, which includes everything offered in the Jetta lineup. GLI also comes standard with heated and ventilated front seats and leather upholstery with red stitching. The $33,940 sticker is very reasonable, but the lower-priced Jetta trims pack a lot of value for those who don’t or can’t tick every box.

Technology and Safety

The 2025 Jetta is well-equipped with the latest technology and safety features. Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit is now standard across the range, offering a customizable digital display that enhances the driving experience. The car also includes a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking.

Pricing for the 2025 Jetta rises $560 to $23,220. The Sport is $24,500, while the SE is $26,200 and the SEL is $30,225.

At a time when new-car affordability strains the imagination and pocketbooks of legions of car buyers, the Jetta and GLI pack a lot of value for under $30,000. Jetta posted a 24% sales gain in 2023 and sales through June this year were up 76% thanks to a heavy sales and incentives push to sell down the old model.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta continues to be a strong contender in the compact sedan segment. It combines a comfortable and well-designed interior with solid performance and excellent fuel efficiency. The Jetta’s refined driving dynamics, advanced technology and understated elegance make it a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable and practical sedan. Whether you’re looking for a daily commuter or a small family car, the 2025 Jetta is well worth considering.