What we know!
While changes are few in this new model year, the GLI , first introduced 40 years ago, does see some exterior enhancements, specifically a more attractive front fascia and grille design. A red chinstrap, with the color symbolic of performance, is found at the lower edge, and a new unibrow light bar connects the updated LED lighting elements. Also revised are the 18-inch wheels the vehicle sits upon.
Other exterior updates include the model designation’s replacement on the front fender by G-L-I letters on the front door. There is also a new trunk lid and taillights that span the width of the GLI’s back end.
A peek inside reveals a new, more attractive dash that serves to house the 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. There is also an inductive charging pad, and a heated steering wheel. The former knob-controlled dual-zone climate interface has been changed to a touch-capacitive unit, all giving an overall more modern appearance.
Since all over trim levels have been eliminated, heading into 2025, the GLI is offered only with one trim level — the Autobahn trim, which includes everything the Jetta lineup has to offer. For just $33,940, consumers get as standard such features as heated and ventilated — and comfortable — front seats, as well as leather upholstery with attractive red stitching. Also gained in 2025 as standard is a sunroof, VW’s IQ.DRIVE driver-assist package that includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, as well as the sound from the Beats Audio system.
Powering the GTI, the last VW to offer a manual transmission, in the 2025 model year is the same turbocharged and much-loved 2.0-liter inline-four from before, making 228 horsepower and 258-lb.ft. of torque sent through a six-speed manual gearbox or a no-cost seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The torque is distributed across the front axle via an electronically controlled limited-slip differential.
The GLI for 2025 is the only new Volkswagen offered with three pedals in the U.S.
The GLI is also presented with 13.4-inch front brake rotors and large floating calipers from the seventh-generation Golf R as well as three-way adjustable adaptive dampers. The GLI reaches 60 mph from 0 in 6.0 seconds. Preferable is the Custom drive mode setup with dampers in Comfort, engine and steering in Sport and the synthesized engine soundtrack turned off.
This vehicle is just plain fun to drive, especially when navigating those twists and turns. The only let down is that its standard all-season tires inhibit the GLI’s otherwise impressive front-end grip.
Incredibly solid, attractive and wonderfully affordable, the GLI also boasts impressive highway fuel efficiency. The manual is rated at 26 mpg in the city and 36 on the highway, with both those numbers one mpg higher than GLIs equipped with the automatic transmission.
Incredibly versatile and perfectly suited for those drivers who desire a true driving experience and do not shy away from manual, the Jetta GLI emerges with a mid—cycle refresh that is worth a second look! Even with strong competition, the GLI stands out! We’re happy it didn’t go changin’ in this next model year! Take a test drive, and reserve yours today!