Description
In the summer of 2024, Volkswagen introduced a second refresh for the seventh generation of the Jetta in the U.S., and besides the base model, these changes also affected the top-spec version, the GLI.
Those who wanted a family sedan that could still provide some punchy acceleration and performance could get the Volkswagen Jetta GLI, also known as the Golf GTI, with a trunk. It wasn't just a regular Jetta with a more potent engine; it was a complete package that dramatically transformed the otherwise mundane European compact sedan. The automaker introduced the seventh generation of this nameplate in the U.S. in 2018 and refreshed it once in 2021. Come 2024, the compact sedan received a second update that was even more significant than the previous one. As expected, the car still relied on the same MQB A1 platform shared with other vehicles within the Volkswagen Group but sported some unique features, such as the independent rear suspension or the EA888 engine. Furthermore, the interior has been upgraded, and the cabin looks more like a 2025 vehicle than a 2010 one.
The exterior of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI was significantly improved at the front. It featured a narrower, rectangular upper grille instead of the taller one as before. A pair of redesigned LED headlights flanked it, and the automaker even added a light stripe between them to emphasize the car's width. This line visually connected the L-shaped daytime running lights integrated into the main headlamps. On the lower side of the bumper, the car sported a broad trapezoidal-shaped center air intake flanked by triangular vertical side scoops. In addition, a red U-shaped trim adorned the car's apron.
Volkswagen tried to add subtle enhancements to the car's profile, and only someone who really knew where to look could spot the difference between the GLI and the lower grades of the 2025 Jetta. The car came fitted as standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, just like the Jetta SEL, albeit with a unique design for them. Furthermore, the automaker offered an option for black door mirror caps with integrated turn signal lamps. Out back, the car had a new trunk lid with a slightly different design than its predecessor. However, Volkswagen still tried to make the 2025 model year look different than the previous version. To achieve that, it created a new red light stripe that connected the redesigned taillights and adorned it with chromed Jetta lettering. Finally, underneath the rear bumper, the automaker installed dual exhausts with chromed endings that flanked a black diffuser.
Inside, the most striking visual difference was for the dashboard. There, the automaker placed a new 8-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system in a free-floating position. Previously, that display was integrated into the upper side of the center stack. Fronting the driver was a new LCD with brighter contrast and a clear display. Unlike the rest of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta range, the GLI also had a few extra lines in the infotainment system's menu. A pair of high-bolstered seats ensured the front occupants' respectable side support during high-speed cornering, while between them was a center console with an armrest. Volkswagen offered the GLI with a unique Virginia leather upholstery.
Under the hood, Volkswagen installed its acclaimed EA888 engine that produced 231 PS (228 hp). It was paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox that sent all the oomph to the front wheels via an electronically controlled differential.
Press Release
Volkswagen of America Inc. announced today that Jetta and Jetta GLI will offer refined style and better value for 2025. Since its debut in 1980, the Jetta's winning combination of style, quality, safety, and value have continued to make it Volkswagen's best-selling car in North America. Refreshed for 2025, the Jetta and the sport-tuned Jetta GLI benefit from updated exterior styling, new interior décor and technology, and a lower starting price than the outgoing 2024 automatic-transmission model with a starting MSRP of $21,995.
On the outside, modernized front and rear end treatments, alongside new wheel choices and colors, give the Jetta a more distinctive appearance. The revised front fascia features new upper and lower grille designs and new LED headlights, as well as an available light bar (starting on Sport models). A new trunk lid with a standard light bar connecting the taillights brings a touch of elegance to the rear. Wheel offerings include new 17-inch aluminum alloys for SE models and 18-inch alloys for SEL and GLI, along with new optional black-wheel packages for SE and GLI. Two new exterior color options-Monterey Blue Pearl and Monument Gray-further bolster the upscale vibe.
Inside, the Volkswagen Jetta features a new dash design as well as new colors and decor across the range. A three-bar design across the upper dash flows through the air vents and directs the eye to the new focal point for the cabin-the floating touchscreen infotainment system, which now boasts an 8-inch display as standard across all models. Climatronic® Touch automatic climate control is now standard as well, adding to the sleek look in the center stack. SE models bring comfort and convenience features previously found in SEL models down in the trim walk, including SiriusXM® satellite radio, voice control, as well as wireless charging and wireless App-Connect. A sunroof is an available option.
Rhombus cloth seats in either Titan Black or Storm Grey are standard on Jetta S, while Sport models bring in the embossed molekular cloth seats first seen on the GLI 40th Edition in Titan Black. Both S and Sport models feature Brushed Silver decor. SE models are outfitted with new perforated, two-tone Microcloud leatherette seating surfaces, in either Grey/Titan Black or Seawall Blue/Storm Grey combinations, alongside String Figure decor. SEL models feature perforated Vienna leather seating surfaces in either Grey/Titan Black or a new Brown/Titan Black color combination, with Horizon Black decor. GLI models are uniquely equipped with new perforated Vienna leather seating surfaces in Grey/Red Crust/Titan Black with red contrast stitching, alongside Magnum matte decor.
Under the hood, the Jetta retains its 1.5-liter, 158-hp turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. Matched with the standard eight-speed automatic transmission, it blends sporty performance with excellent highway fuel economy. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI is powered by a 2.0-liter EA888 engine that offers up 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which can still be paired with either a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox.
Colloquially known as the "GTI with a trunk," the sport-tuned Jetta GLI also features larger brakes, VAQ electronically-controlled torque-sensing limited-slip differential and XDS® electronic differential lock, the DCC® adaptive damping system, and a unique sport exhaust system.
The IQ.DRIVE system is standard on all 2025 Jetta and Jetta GLI models. The system utilizes front and rear radar, a front camera and several ultrasound sensors to collect data from the surrounding area, enabling Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance); Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring); Active Blind Spot Monitor; Rear Traffic Alert; Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Go; Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System); and Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency).
The revamped VW Jetta lineup is expected to reach U.S. dealers by the end of Q3 2024.
