2025 Volkswagen Jetta and Jetta GLI: A Refreshed Compact Classic for Under $26k

– The 2025 Jetta and Jetta GLI feature refreshed styling, improved aerodynamics, and new colour options.

– Updated interiors include a standard 8-inch touchscreen and Volkswagen Digital Cockpit system.

– Jetta GLI delivers 228 horsepower, with adaptive damping and performance-oriented handling for a sportier ride.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta and Jetta GLI bring a fresh blend of modern styling, enhanced interiors, and technology to the table. With a starting price of $25,795 for the Jetta Trendline and $34,995 for the GLI, these models carry their legacy of quality and value, which has lasted over four decades.

New Exterior Design and Aerodynamics

The 2025 Jetta has been given a visual refresh and remains based on the Volkswagen MQB platform. The front end now sports redesigned grilles, LED headlights, and the option for a light bar, contributing to its more aggressive stance. The rear has also been updated with a new trunk lid that includes a light bar connecting the taillights.

Buyers looking for a sportier aesthetic can opt for the Comfortline trim’s $500 Sport Package, which offers blacked-out exterior elements such as the grille and mirror caps. The Jetta GLI, meanwhile, carries a black honeycomb grille and a red accent strip. For even more flair, an available Black Package on the GLI adds a black roof, mirror caps, and wheels.

Volkswagen has also enhanced the aerodynamics of both the Jetta and Jetta GLI. With a drag coefficient of 0.26 for the standard Jetta and 0.31 for the GLI, new features like active radiator shutters and air curtain intakes help the vehicles cut through the air more efficiently. Two new exterior colors, Monterey Blue Pearl and Alpine Gray, offer additional options for buyers.

Advanced Safety and Assistance Features

Every model comes standard with complete suite of features as well as Automatic Post-Collision Braking System which activates the brakes after an initial impact to reduce the likelihood of secondary collisions.

For added security, trims above the Comfortline come equipped with the IQ.DRIVE driver assistance suite. This system includes several semi-automated driving features such as Travel Assist, Active Blind Spot Monitor, Front Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, and Rear Traffic Alert. These advanced safety measures work together to provide drivers with enhanced peace of mind while on the road.

Interior Comfort and Tech Upgrades

Stepping inside the 2025 Jetta, drivers will find a more refined interior, highlighted by chrome and piano black accents. The dashboard has been redesigned, and an 8-inch floating touchscreen is now standard across all trims, giving the cabin a tech-focused and upscale feel. The generous trunk provides 399 litres of space.

Different trims offer a range of seating materials, from rhombus cloth in the base models to premium Vienna leather in higher trims like the Highline and GLI. All models feature heated front seats, with higher trims offering ventilated front and heated rear seats.

Wireless App-Connect and SiriusXM come standard, while navigation is available on higher trims. The Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, also standard, includes a fully digital instrument cluster, with an upgraded 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro on the higher trims.

Engine Performance and Driving Dynamics

Under the hood, the 2025 Jetta is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged inline-four engine, delivering 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, this setup provides a a combined fuel economy of 7.4 L/100 km.

The Jetta GLI carries on with the EA888 EVO3 2.0L turbocharged engine, producing an impressive 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The GLI is available with a six-speed manual transmission, the last VW to do so, or a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Its sportier suspension, including stiffer springs and a multi-link rear suspension.

Volkswagen offers Driving Profile Selection on trims equipped with the Sport Package, Highline, and GLI. This system allows drivers to switch between Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Custom driving modes, tailoring the car’s performance to their preferences. The GLI-exclusive DCC adaptive damping system enhances driving dynamics by adjusting the suspension in real-time based on road conditions.

Pricing

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta offers a range of trims to suit various driving preferences and budgets. The lineup starts with the Jetta Trendline priced at $25,795. Moving up, the Jetta Comfortline is priced from $28,195. For those seeking additional luxury and technology, the Jetta Highline is available at $32,195. At the top of the range, the GLI is offered in two configurations: a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed automatic, both priced at $34,995.

For customization, Volkswagen offers several options and color upgrades for the Jetta. The Comfortline trim can be enhanced with the Sport Package for an additional $1,600, while the GLI can be equipped with the Black Package for $500. Regarding exterior colors, the Comfortline, Highline, and GLI trims offer Kings Red Metallic for $295, with the option to add a black roof on the GLI at the same price. Alpine Grey and Oryx White Pearl are available for $495, with the GLI offering the choice of adding a black roof to either color for the same additional cost.

The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta lands in dealership in a few weeks.