The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of sedans, especially in a market where many manufacturers are phasing out four-door models. Despite this trend, Volkswagen remains committed to the Jetta, which ranks as its third-best seller in the U.S., just behind the Tiguan and Atlas. For the 2025 model year, the Jetta receives a series of subtle yet meaningful updates that enhance both its aesthetic and driving experience. We recently had the opportunity to test-drive the standard Jetta as well as the performance-focused GLI model, which brought us up to speed on the latest enhancements.
### **Exterior and Interior Enhancements**
The exterior updates for the 2025 Jetta might not be revolutionary, but they certainly refine the car’s overall look. The front and rear both feature slight design tweaks, with the upper and lower grilles receiving a fresh new look. The addition of new LED headlights with an optional light bar across the front adds a modern touch to the front fascia. Meanwhile, at the back, the trunk lid has been subtly reshaped, and another light bar now spans the width of the rear. The SE trim now comes with 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, while the SEL and GLI trims sport 18-inch wheels. For those looking for a bit more flair, black wheel packages are available on the SE and GLI trims. Two new colors, Monterey Blue Pearl and Monument Grey, also join the palette for 2025.
Inside the cabin, the 2025 Jetta features a redesigned dashboard that emphasizes simplicity and modernity. The focal point is the new horizontal bar design across the dash, which integrates the air vents and enhances the car’s clean, linear aesthetic. The centerpiece of the dashboard is an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, which is flanked by physical knobs for volume and tuning—an appreciated feature, particularly in a market where many competitors are moving toward full digital controls. The “Climatronic” touch controls for the HVAC system, now standard across all trims, add a modern edge but still allow for easy adjustments by tapping either the red or blue indicators. While the touch controls take some getting used to, they undeniably contribute to the upscale feel of the cabin.
The Jetta comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay, allowing for seamless smartphone integration without the need for cables. The Jetta also retains the physical buttons that flank the infotainment screen, making navigating the system easier and more intuitive than fully digital setups. Higher trims, like the SEL and GLI, come with a larger 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit display, while the S, Sport, and SE trims get an 8-inch version.
### **Performance Options: Three Powertrain Choices**
Volkswagen continues to offer the Jetta with two engine choices, catering to both the everyday driver and those seeking a more performance-oriented experience. The standard engine remains a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four, delivering 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission, as the manual option is no longer offered for non-GLI trims. Despite the modest power output, the standard Jetta provides ample low-end torque for city driving, though it may lose some steam at higher speeds. Still, its light steering and balanced chassis make it a pleasant vehicle for both daily commutes and longer highway drives.
The real excitement, however, comes with the GLI variant, which features a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. For purists, the GLI can be had with a six-speed manual transmission, a rarity in today’s market where manuals are increasingly phased out. In fact, with the GTI no longer available in manual, the Jetta GLI is now the last Volkswagen performance vehicle to offer a stick shift. The manual accounts for about 30% of GLI sales, a figure that highlights the strong demand for an engaging driving experience. The GLI also comes with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission for those who prefer paddle shifters.
### **Driving Impressions**
On the road, the standard Jetta provides a familiar and refined driving experience. Its turbocharged engine offers enough power for most driving scenarios, though performance tapers off at higher speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth and unobtrusive shifts, making the Jetta ideal for drivers seeking a quiet and composed ride. The steering is light but responsive, allowing for easy handling, especially on winding roads. The suspension system, despite utilizing a torsion beam setup at the rear, manages to provide a comfortable and controlled ride, absorbing imperfections on the road with ease.
The GLI, on the other hand, is a much more thrilling proposition. With its more powerful engine and multi-link rear suspension, the GLI feels far more connected to the road, delivering sharper handling and more responsive feedback. The manual transmission, in particular, is a joy to operate, with a light clutch and smooth shifts that make it easy to row through the gears. The GLI’s added power makes it easy to induce wheel spin in first gear and chirp the tires when shifting into second. This car is as much fun to drive in everyday settings as it is on a spirited run through twisty back roads. The GLI’s balance of performance and practicality sets it apart from competitors like the Subaru WRX, offering a smoother, more composed ride while retaining that visceral driving feel.
### **Pricing and Value**
The 2025 Jetta is competitively priced, starting at $23,220 for the base S trim. For those wanting a bit more luxury, the SEL trim tops out at $30,225. However, the star of the lineup is undoubtedly the GLI, which starts at $33,940, whether you choose the manual or the DSG transmission. Given its performance capabilities and the fun factor of the manual transmission, the GLI offers a unique driving experience that’s hard to find in today’s market, particularly at this price point. Whether you’re seeking the affordable refinement of the standard Jetta or the sporty exhilaration of the GLI, both models are expected to hit dealerships by the end of Q3 2024.
With its updated design, solid tech features, and diverse engine options, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta continues to hold its own in a segment that’s shrinking as automakers move away from sedans. For drivers who still value the practicality and performance that a well-rounded sedan can offer, the Jetta remains a compelling choice.
