Volkswagen Update Jetta, GLI for 2025; Lower Starting Price
June 25, 2024
It’s none too surprising that the Volkswagen Jetta, and its sportier GLI companion, are being updated for another go around; but, in a welcomed and rather rare change of pace, this new model year will also bring a lower starting MSRP along with said update.
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta equipped with the automatic transmission will start at $21,995 before adding destination. A 2024 Jetta S, the entry-level trim, starts at $21,435; however, that is with a six-speed manual and three pedals. An automatic-equipped ‘24 starts at $22,235 predestination, hence the now-lower asking price.
Looking at the fine (press release) print further indicates that the Jetta’s carryover turbo 1.5-liter I4 will now come mated with the eight-speed automatic standard. And while it’s not explicitly said that the manual has been axed, all signs point to ‘yes,’ especially considering the fact that the release specifically mentions that the Jetta GLI is still available with a row-it-yourself option.
The GLI is powered by the same 2.0-liter engine, dishing out 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. That’s a sizable uptick from the 1.5 liter’s 158 horses; and those favoring the automatic route will see an improvement there, too, thanks to a seven-speed dual-clutch design over the base Jetta’s eight-speed transmission. For those wondering what else the GLI packs to make it the sportier of the two, it’s larger brakes, an adaptive damping system, sport exhaust and a limited-slip differential, plus some red exterior trimmings to flaunt the extra power.
Whether you prefer your Jetta traditional or GLI flavored, expect new fascias forward and aft, as well as new wheels to choose from. Another typical mark of mid-cycle refreshes, new LED headlights make an appearance; less common, though certainly not out of the realm of VW’s current design language, is an available light bar across the front. A light bar comes standard in back, stretching across the trunk lid. The Jetta color palette is expanded by Monterey Blue Pearl and Monument Gray hues.
The cabin sees a new dashboard, mounted on which is a standard 8-inch infotainment screen. This update also benefits from the trickling down of SEL convenience features to the SE, such as satellite radio and voice control, plus wireless charging; Climatronic Touch automatic climate control is standard on all models. Seating surfaces have been updated with new upholstery, joined by new interior accent pieces for a similar, yet clearly updated interior.
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta and Jetta GLI arrive in dealers around summer’s end.