2025 VW Jetta Remains Affordable and Fresh, GLI Still Offers Manual Option

The Volkswagen Jetta is gearing up for the 2025 model year with a few updates that aim to keep the popular compact sedan fresh and appealing to buyers. Despite minimal changes, the Jetta has seen a significant increase in sales this year, making it the third best-selling model for the brand. The updates include styling changes to the exterior, new features inside the cabin, and minor tweaks to the powertrains.

Exterior Updates:
The 2025 Jetta features a new front fascia with a smaller main grille and LED headlights connected by a thin light bar. The regular Jettas sport a chrome accent strip in the lower front fascia, while the GLI models opt for a red accent. Additionally, the back of the Jetta now boasts connected taillights for a more cohesive look.

Interior Changes:
Inside, the dashboard of the Jetta takes inspiration from the updated Atlas line, featuring full-width air vents and piano black trim. One of the main updates includes a standard 8-inch infotainment screen with shortcut buttons and knobs for easy use. The touch buttons for climate control, while illuminated, may take some getting used to. Automatic climate control is now standard across all Jetta models, with the SE and GLI trims also receiving wireless phone charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Powertrain Updates:
The powertrains for the 2025 Jetta remain largely unchanged, with the base model equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The GLI model retains its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Unfortunately, the manual option is no longer available for the regular Jetta, leaving only the eight-speed automatic transmission. However, the GLI still offers a manual option in addition to the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Pricing and Availability:
Despite the updates, pricing for the 2025 Jetta remains relatively unchanged compared to the previous model year. The base price has technically increased, as the automatic transmission is now standard, but the 2025 Jetta S is actually priced lower than the 2024 model with the same transmission. Pricing for the entire lineup will be announced soon, with new Jetta models expected to arrive at dealerships in the third quarter of the year.

In conclusion, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta receives subtle updates that aim to enhance its appeal and maintain its popularity among compact sedan buyers. With refreshed styling, new features, and minor tweaks to the powertrains, the Jetta continues to offer a well-rounded package at a competitive price point.

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