Refreshed 2025 Volkswagen Jetta Loses Stick Shift Except in GLI Trim
The current-generation Volkswagen Jetta, which was introduced for 2019, is getting a bit long in the tooth. Instead of a full redesign, the automaker is making some changes inside and out for 2025 while announcing a price drop—at least in the U.S.
To begin with, the revised front fascia features new upper and lower grille designs and new LED headlights, as well as an available light bar starting on the Comfortline model with Sport package. In the rear, the taillights are now connected by a light bar on all models.
- Also: 2024 Volkswagen Jetta Arrives With GLI 40th Anniversary Edition
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Wheel offerings include new 17-inch aluminum alloys (Comfortline) and 18-inch alloys (Highline and GLI), while two new body colour options can be specified including Monterey Blue Pearl and Alpine Grey.
The interior of the 2025 Jetta reveals a redesigned upper dashboard. Look at the triple-blade pattern stretching out to the right and, more importantly, the centre display that’s now detached and almost free-standing. Not sure if it’s an improvement. Elsewhere, new touch-based HVAC controls completely get rid of rotary dials and other physical buttons, which will definitely require some getting used to.
Volkswagen has also used this 2025 update to offer new trim options for the seats in most models.
Other than that, the most notable change—as we anticipated—is the loss of the six-speed manual transmission in the entry-level Jetta Trendline, leaving only the eight-speed automatic. However, the sporty Jetta GLI saves the stick, inevitably making many Golf GTI and Golf R drivers jealous. Who knows how long that will last? The alternative here is a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
As for the engines, well, it’s business as usual. The 1.5-litre unit continues to generate 158 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.0-litre mill in the Jetta GLI stays at 228 hp and 258 lb-ft.
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta models will arrive in dealerships by the end of the summer. Canadian pricing will be announced in late August, and hopefully the base Jetta will be cheaper than a comparable, automatic-equipped 2024 model as is the case south of the border.
