The Volkswagen Jetta, a perennial favorite in the sedan segment and a top-selling model for VW, has received a significant refresh for the 2025 model year. Following a remarkable 51.5% year-over-year sales increase, Volkswagen is doubling down on the Jetta’s appeal with enhanced styling, updated technology, and the same dependable performance that drivers have come to expect. While the core mechanics remain unchanged under the hood, the 2025 Jetta boasts a “redesigned” experience through notable visual and technological upgrades both inside and out.
Exterior Styling and Design Enhancements
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta makes a striking first impression with its redesigned exterior. Volkswagen’s designers have focused on refining the Jetta’s aesthetic, incorporating a new grille, updated headlight and taillight designs, and fresh wheel options. The SEL trim level, in particular, stands out with its new 18-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty stance. The front fascia receives a significant update with a restyled grille, and an available integrated, illuminated light bar that stretches across the front, lending a modern and sophisticated edge. While the chrome treatment on the lower front bumper might be a point of subjective taste, the overall effect is undeniably refreshed.
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Alt text: Front view of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL showcasing the redesigned grille, LED headlights, and chrome accents, highlighting the updated exterior styling of the vehicle.
The SEL trim further benefits from new LED headlights and daytime running lights, complemented by elegant chrome window trim that adds a touch of premium flair. Moving to the rear, the designers have streamlined the Jetta’s appearance with a newly designed trunk lid. This includes a standard light bar that seamlessly connects the LED taillights, creating a cohesive and modern rear light signature. The chrome accents on the tail end of the SEL model are a particularly appealing detail, adding to the vehicle’s sophisticated look. Practical exterior features on the SEL include rain-sensing wipers, heated and foldable side mirrors, and a heated wiper park area, enhancing convenience in various weather conditions.
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Alt text: Rear perspective of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL, emphasizing the new trunk lid design with integrated light bar connecting the LED taillights and chrome accented tail end, illustrating the sleek rear styling.
Powertrain and Performance Details
Under the hood, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL maintains its reliable front-wheel-drive configuration, powered by a responsive 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, providing adequate acceleration for daily driving. It is paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. While the acceleration is described as “fine” for typical use, drivers seeking more spirited performance might consider the GLI model, which offers a more potent 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It’s worth noting that the Jetta, like other VW models, features a stop/start system which some drivers may find noticeable. A convenient feature for colder climates is the SEL’s remote engine start capability.
Interior Refinements and Technology Upgrades
The interior of the 2025 Jetta receives a significant makeover, aiming for a more modern and upscale ambiance. A completely new dash design and upgraded technology are at the forefront of these changes. The reviewer notes being “pleasantly surprised” by the unexpectedly soft-touch materials used on the dash, indicating a step up in perceived quality. A new three-bar design for the passenger-side air vent is integrated into the dash, adding a unique visual element.
The centerpiece of the updated cabin is a floating 8-inch center touchscreen display. This screen runs Volkswagen’s Discover Media system, which is praised for its user-friendly interface, navigation, and voice control features. The multimedia system is highlighted for its sharp graphics and responsiveness.
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Alt text: Close-up of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL steering wheel, showcasing the leather-wrapped multi-function design with bold silver trim and integrated controls, emphasizing the updated interior elements.
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Alt text: Interior shot of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL seats upholstered in Grigio and Titan Black Vienna leather, highlighting the sporty design with side bolsters, heated and ventilated features, and overall cabin comfort.
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Alt text: Detail view of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL infotainment screen displaying the navigation system and user interface of the Discover Media system, emphasizing the upgraded in-car technology.
The test vehicle features a Grigio and Titan Black Vienna leather interior, complemented by padded leatherette door panel inserts. The sport seats, described as “cushiony” and equipped with side bolsters, offer good comfort, though they are noted as being somewhat narrow. Front seats are both heated and ventilated, though only the driver’s seat is power-adjustable. The leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel stands out with its bold silver trim, adding brightness to the otherwise darker cabin. The heating elements in both the steering wheel and driver’s seat are particularly praised for their effectiveness. Volkswagen’s 10.25-inch configurable Digital Cockpit Pro, offering full-screen navigation, remains a standout feature for the driver display.
The center stack receives a significant upgrade with the replacement of traditional A/C controls with new, standard dual-zone Climatronic haptic touch controls. These controls are lauded for their contribution to a more upscale cabin appearance and their ease of use. The slim center console design is carried over from the previous model year, housing the gear shifter, two cup holders, and an available wireless charging pad.
For audiophiles, the tested model includes a 9-speaker BeatsAudio sound system, described as “awesome.” However, a critical detail for potential buyers is that this premium system is not available on models built after January 1, 2025. SEL models produced after this date will come with a six-speaker BeatsAudio system, similar to the SE trim. This build date detail is crucial for customers seeking the upgraded audio experience.
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Alt text: Rear cabin view of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL, showcasing the spacious 60/40 split second row with heated seats, a drop-down center armrest, and soft-touch seatbacks, highlighting passenger comfort and interior space.
The 2025 Jetta continues to offer a roomy 60/40 split second row, which is also heated and includes a drop-down center armrest and soft-touch seatbacks for passenger comfort. Cargo space remains generous, and a spare tire is conveniently located under the cargo floor. Additional standard SEL features include wireless charging, ventilated front seats, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM with 360L, a power sunroof with sunscreen, a rearview camera, and 10-color ambient lighting. Connectivity is well-addressed with front-row USB-C ports and a charging port located in the front armrest.
Options and Pricing
The test model reviewed had only one optional feature: a premium paint hue. With this single option, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) comes in at approximately $31,000. This price point emphasizes the Jetta’s strong value proposition within the sedan market.
Ride Quality and Driving Dynamics
The Volkswagen Jetta is fundamentally designed as a comfortable and capable commuter car, delivering a refined driving experience typical of the VW brand. Acceleration is smooth, although the reviewer expresses a slight desire for paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience. Handling is described as confident and predictable. While highway noise is present, it is considered typical for vehicles in this segment.
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Alt text: Action shot of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL in motion, demonstrating its sporty drive and handling capabilities on a scenic road, highlighting the vehicle’s performance and driving dynamics.
The steering is characterized as being on the “looser side,” contrasting with brands like Honda, but Sport mode is available to enhance steering responsiveness. For drivers prioritizing a sportier driving feel, the Jetta GLI remains the top-performing option in the lineup.
Safety and Driver Assistance Technology
The entire 2025 Jetta lineup comes standard with Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE suite of driver assistance technologies. This comprehensive suite includes Travel Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Front Assist, Active Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Traffic Alert. While the technology itself is effective once activated, the reviewer notes that the initial operation could be more intuitive.
Final Verdict: A Compelling Sedan Choice
For those who may have previously overlooked the Volkswagen Jetta, the updates for the 2025 model year make it a compelling option in the midsize sedan market. With its stylish design enhancements, fuel efficiency, and now its most advanced technology offerings to date, the 2025 Jetta presents a strong value proposition. Priced around $31,000, it offers a remarkable blend of features, style, and performance, making it a sedan well worth considering.
