Volkswagen has thrown little updates at the 7th generation Jetta every couple years just to keep it fresh. And every time they’ve done that, we’ve had a GLI Long Term tester. Well, now this 2025 GLI Autobahn just rolled onto our lot, so let’s dive into the details.
The Jetta updates start outside with some alterations to front and rear styling. The lower grille is taller and here on the GLI there’s large mesh and the red accent now spans the entire width while the rear receives VW’s light bar treatment. The Kings Red with Deep Black roof costs an extra $455 while the GLI black package with painted 18-inch wheels, side mirror caps and a lip spoiler adds $650.
Inside, the dash has been revised pulling the 8-inch touchscreen out to give a table-style appearance and the passenger side sees a new design where the air vent seemingly spans the whole dash. The GLI gets a leather wrapped heated steering wheel as well as heated and ventilated front seats as standard.
This six-speed manual is a no cost option and it still connects to a GLI-specific 2-liter turbo 4-cylinder with 228 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft of torque. All-told, this 2025 Volkswagen Jett GLI Autobahn stickers for $35,045 after destination.
We’ve only rowed through the gears a couple of times, but we’ll have our first official update soon. In the meantime, reach out to us with all your questions and comments right here at MotorWeek.