2025 VW Jetta Upgraded Without Redoing

While most automakers are focused on higher-margin ICE vehicles to support investments in electrification, Volkswagen is maintaining an affordability strategy with its Jetta entry-level model for 2025.

The Jetta and Jetta GLI are refreshed, the second refresh since the basic vehicle debuted in 2018, with a list of improvements while only climbing $250 in starting price to $21,995 at a time when there are relatively few new vehicles priced under $22,000.

The Jetta competes against the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza and Kia Forte.

As companies invest in electrification architectures and systems, and ICE vehicles are being phased out, the Jetta represents a segment where automakers will make improvements while not redoing platforms.

This midcycle revision 2.0 includes new front and rear end treatments, new wheel choices and body colors, revised front fascia features – new upper and lower grille designs and new LED headlights, as well as an available lightbar (starting on Sport models) – and a new trunklid with a standard light bar connecting the taillights.

A three-bar design across the upper dash flows through the air vents, directing the eye to the new floating touchscreen infotainment system, which now includes an 8-in. (20-cm) display as standard across all models. Jetta SE models bring comfort and convenience features previously found in SEL models down in the trim walk, including SiriusXM satellite radio, voice control, wireless charging and wireless App-Connect. A sunroof is available.

Sport models have the embossed cloth seats first seen on the GLI 40th Edition in Titan Black. Both S and Sport models also feature brushed silver accents. SE models are outfitted with new perforated, two-tone Microcloud leatherette seating surfaces. GLI models are equipped with perforated Vienna leather seating surfaces.

The powertrain remains largely unchanged: the Jetta’s 1.5L, 158-hp turbocharged inline 4-cyl. mated to a standard 8-speed automatic transmission. The Jetta GLI is powered by a 2.0L EA888 engine that offers up 228 hp and 258 lb.-ft.  (350 Nm) of torque paired with either a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The sport-tuned Jetta GLI also features larger brakes and VAQ electronically controlled torque-sensing limited-slip differential.

The IQ.DRIVE system is standard on all 2025 Jetta and Jetta GLI models, utilizing front and rear radar, a front camera and several ultrasound sensors to collect data, enabling Travel Assist, VW’s semi-automated driving assistance; front-assist (forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring); active blindspot monitor; rear traffic alert; adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go; lane assist (lane keeping system); and emergency assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency).

The revamped Jetta lineup will go on sale in September.