2025 Volkswagen Jetta: The Volkswagen Jetta has long been known as the sensible, reliable sedan in VW’s lineup. For 2025, the Jetta returns with what Volkswagen calls a “refresh,” though the changes are more subtle than many buyers might have hoped for—especially considering its last major redesign dates back to 2018. After the 2022 engine update that promised improved performance many expected something more substantial this time around. Instead the Jetta remains a safe but somewhat uninspiring choice in the compact sedan segment.
What is new at last?
Sharper Exterior Styling
Volkswagen has made a handful of small cosmetic adjustment that give the Jetta a slightly more modern look.
- The front headlight now feature more angular styling, replace the softer, rounded design of previous model.
- The rear also gets tweaks, including a new reflector element that adds a wider appearance.
- Updated wheel designs provide a fresh touch but don’t drastically change the car’s overall personality.
A More Modern Dashboard
Inside, the 2025 Jetta gets a noticeable update:
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- A reshaped dashboard now stretches across the cabin with a wider air vent design.
- The 8.0-inch touchscreen has been moved higher making it easier and safer to use while driving.
- Higher trims like the SEL get new touch-sensitive climate control which look premium but may require some getting used to.
While these updates improve cabin appeal, Volkswagen still hasn’t addressed one of the Jetta biggest criticisms: the extensive use of hard plastics.
Same Old Mechanicals
The inherent drawback, however, remains the same when it comes to plastics on the interior. So is the case with the turbocharged 1.5L inline-four engine that continues for yet another year, generating a rather meek 158 hp. That gives the engine some 3 hp less than the power ratings of the inherently aspirated competitors-Honda Civic (150 hp), Hyundai Elantra (147 hp), and the Toyota Corolla (169 hp).
The disappointing thing for driving enthusiast is that the manual transmission has been axed for nearly all trim levels and is now only available for the sportier 228-hp Jetta GLI model.
Slow and Steady
The Jetta isn’t built for excitement, and its acceleration numbers prove it:
- 0–60 mph in about 8.5 second which is slower than the 2022 model despite a similar weight.
At lower speeds, the car struggles with hesitation:
- The transmission often “hunts” for the right gear.
- Turbo lag is noticeable during stop-and-go driving and on hills.
On the highway, however, the Jetta smooths out nicely. The 8-speed automatic settles into gears well and feels more confident at steady speeds.
Comfortable, But Not So Exciting
The ride in the Jetta is very pleasant, but the handling tends somewhat to compromise it. The 18-inch wheels coupled with lower-profile tires make the ride from the higher SEL trim a bit rougher than a good fit to the car’s comforting ride, as these smaller wheels on the lower trims are a better match.
Not of course that efficiency comes without certain drawbacks, as Jetta is rated at 29 mpg city and 40 highway excellent option for commuting over long distances. The 8.0-inch screen while tiny compared to today’s standards, remains easy to maneuver with the touch-sensitive climate controls added to it.
Conclusion
The Volkswagen Jetta is a reliable, roomy, fuel efficient sedan—but it lack excitement.
Against fresh rival like the Honda Civic and the new Kia K4 the Jetta feel dated in design and performance.
If you value:
- comfort
- interior space
- fuel economy
- a lower starting price
…the base Jetta S offers the best value at $23,720.
The SEL trim, though well-equipped, doesn’t justify the price when the overall driving experience is almost identical.
Volkswagen Jetta specifications for 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Price | $23,720 |
| Tested Price | $30,225 |
| Layout | FWD 5 seater sedan |
| Engine | 1.5L turbocharge 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 158 hp 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft 1750 rpm |
| Transmission | 8 speed automatic |
| Curb Weight | 3170 lb |
| Fuel Economy | 29/40/33 mpg |
| EPA Range | 436 mile |
FAQs
Q1. Does the Jetta still offer a manual transmission?
A: Only on the Jetta GLI. All standard Jetta trim are automatic only.
Q2. How is the interior quality?
A: The layout has improve and the new touchscreen placement is better but VW still use a lot of hard plastics.
Q3. Is the Jetta good for long drive?
A: Absolutely Its fuel economy, highway stability and spacious cabin make it an excellent road trip car.
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