2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI: Simplified Lineup With a Big Choice to Make

Ann Arbor, Michigan—Volkswagen enthusiasts have always enjoyed the flexibility of the German automaker’s platforms. Interchangeable parts have inspired countless tuners especially among Golf and Jetta fans.

Things changed in 2011 when Volkswagen introduced the sixth-generation Jetta and wanted to please sedan-loving Americans. The car grew in length and lost some of that superb build quality that historically contributed to its success. This has been somewhat addressed in recent years, but the Jetta—even in sporty GLI trim—continues to take a back seat to the brand’s hot hatches including the Golf GTI and Golf R.

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The company was wise to keep the “four-door GTI” around, and for 2025 you can have one for less money and with a desirable feature you won’t find in the five-door twins.

All Hail the Manual Transmission

As previously reported, the Golf GTI and Golf R are both set to lose their manual transmission for 2025. Production of the 2024 models for Canada has been extended until November, which is good to hear, but only the dual-clutch gearbox will remain in the lineup after that.

Meanwhile, the 2025 Jetta GLI is moving forward with the two transmission options, unlike the standard Jetta which can no longer be specified with a clutch pedal. Model selection has been simplified in the process, and the price is the same ($34,995) no matter which transmission you choose.

The fact that the turbocharged 2.0-litre EA888 engine in the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI generates less power and especially less torque is what’s keeping the manual gearbox alive. For the record, one out of three customers are going with the stick, we’ve been told. Let’s see if more of them turn to the seven-speed DSG now that it’s become a no-cost option.  

Subtly Sporty

Volkswagen’s sports sedan stands out from the non-GLI variant with a few tweaks here and there. The signature red strip adorning the front fascia is now shaped like a “U” and underscores the unique lower grille. The 18-inch Belvedere wheels are borrowed from the 2019 Golf GTI Rabbit Edition, either with a machined or black finish, the latter as part of the optional Black Package ($500) that also includes black mirror caps.

There’s the obligatory “GLI” badge up front, while those that used to be affixed to the front fenders have been replaced by “GLI” lettering on the front doors, a switch that doesn’t seem to sit well with many people. Oval exhaust tips highlight the rear section, and five body colours are available including Oryx White Pearl, Deep Black Pearl, Monterey Blue Pearl, Alpine Grey and Guards Red Metallic. Incidentally, all of them except the black one can be paired with a black roof.

Inside, the only telltale sign you’re sitting in a Jetta GLI is the small badge at the bottom of the steering wheel along with red contrast stitching on the dashboard and leather seats.

“Like a GTI With a Trunk”

Does the old saying still apply these days? Not really. The Golf GTI is more playful and definitely more explosive with extra power on tap (261 hp vs. 228 hp in the Jetta GLI). The sedan is longer and more stable, yet not quite as agile in corners.

What’s more, the Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) system is not as advanced in the Jetta GLI as it is in the Golf GTI. Both models offer the same drive modes including Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual. As is often the case, Sport mode amplifies the sound of the engine through the speakers. Some drivers don’t mind that, but during our test drive of a manual-equipped Jetta GLI, one of the speakers kept crackling every time the car accelerated, which became pretty annoying. We hope that doesn’t happen to everybody.

With the pedal to the metal, the updated Jetta GLI proves to be a pleasant performer. Even with an older engine and non-amplified sound, there’s fun to be had, for sure. The independent multi-link suspension enhances handling, while the larger brakes (compared to the base Jetta’s) show plenty of bite. On the other hand, the manual shifter isn’t the most precise and the front buckets lack support.

At the end of the day, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is significantly better than its predecessor, and it can brag about being the lone VW model to offer two transmission options. On top of that, pricing is competitive and the large trunk adds to the car’s practicality. Units will start to arrive in Canadian dealerships weeks from now.