2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

In the market for a small, fun to drive, affordable car? Well one of our favorites that has withstood the test of swaying automotive trends is the four-door Volkswagen Jetta. And this 2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn is the perfect embodiment of compact and sensible excitement.

That starts with the powertrain, which is untouched in this mild 2025 refresh. The GLI’s 2.0-liter turbo-four cranks out 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, delivered to the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or, as we prefer it, a six-speed manual. The GLI is the only way to get a manual-shifting Jetta now, and it’s a real shame, as Volkswagen’s six-speed box is another staff favorite!

Driving a Jetta GLI with a manual transmission just feels right. It starts with the clutch pedal, which really hits the sweet spot when it comes to resistance and feel. It’s firm, but it doesn’t wear out my left leg. Then there’s the actual shifter itself. While I do miss the more circular shift ball of GLIs in the past, the operation is as smooth as it ever was, which makes every opportunity for a downshift well worthwhile.

That potent power plant and slick gearbox are encased by a newly stylized body, with updated fascias fore and aft. New headlights are joined by a rear lightbar, a trend Volkswagen is cashing in on across their portfolio. The motif of “classy performance” extends into the cabin, with new materials and an updated dash design. A 10.25-inch digital gauge unit is joined by an 8-inch infotainment screen, the latter supporting wireless smartphone projection. All in all, fit and finish spell premium.

Available on dealer lots now, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI starts around $34,000, the Autobahn being the only trim available. Even with our options, pricing stays well under $40K, a win for small car enthusiasts in our book.

And we’ll have more Quick Spins…soon!