Comparing the 2025 VW Jetta vs. 2025 VW Jetta GLI vs. 2024 VW Jetta vs. 2024 VW Jetta GLI

Here at Low Country Volkswagen, we know that choosing the right ride for your lifestyle can be a challenge — especially when there are so many options out there! 

why we try to simplify the process by providing helpful guides and comparisons to assist you in making an informed decision. If you’re interested in upgrading to a new sedan like the Volkswagen Jetta but want to learn more about its features and how it compares to the previous model year, you’ve landed in the right place!

Offering a low starting price point, the Volkswagen Jetta makes a practical yet stylish choice for any driver who wants a dependable vehicle for commuting or running errands. If you’re looking for a comfortable, fuel-efficient sedan for everyday driving, this is it.

Vehicles

2025 Jetta S

(Trim: S Automatic)

2025 Jetta GLI

(Trim: Autobahn Manual)

2024 Jetta

(Trim: S Automatic)

2024 Jetta GLI

(Trim: 40th Anniversary Edition)

MSRP1

$21,995

$32,715

$22,660

$28,085

Body Style

Compact Sedan

Sporty Sedan

Compact Sedan

Sporty Sedan

Drivetrain

FWD

FWD

FWD

FWD

Engine

4-Cylinder Turbocharged 1.5 Liter

4-Cylinder Turbocharged 2.0 Liter

4-Cylinder Turbocharged 1.5 Liter

4-Cylinder Turbocharged 2.0 Liter

Transmission

8-speed automatic only

6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic

6-speed manual / 8-speed automatic

6-speed manual / 7-speed automatic

Horsepower

158 hp @ 5500 rpm

228 hp @ 6700 rpm

158 hp @ 5500 rpm

228 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque

184 lb.-ft @ 1750 rpm

258 lb.-ft @ 1700 rpm

184 lb.-ft @ 1750 rpm

258 lb.-ft @ 1700 rpm

Fuel Type

Unleaded Gasoline

Unleaded Gasoline

Unleaded Gasoline

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel (MPG)

29 city / 40 hwy / 33 combined

26 city / 36 hwy / 30 combined

30 city / 41 hwy / 34 combined

24 city / 35 hwy / 28 combined

Tank Capacity

12.8 gal

13.2 gal

13.2 gal

13.2 gal

Space & Comfort

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5

Cargo Capacity

14.1 cu-ft

14.1 cu-ft

14.1 cu-ft

14.1 cu.ft.

Front Headroom

38.5 in.

37.9 in.

38.5 in.

38.5 in.

Front Legroom

41.1 in.

41.1 in.

41.1 in.

41.1 in.

Rear Headroom

37.2 in.

37.2 in.

37.2 in.

37.2 in.

Rear Legroom

37.4 in.

37.4 in.

37.4 in.

37.4 in.

Passenger Volume

94.7 cu.ft.

93.9

cu.ft.

94.7 cu.ft.

94.7

cu.ft.

Trunk Volume

14.1 cu.ft.

14.1 cu.ft.

14.1 cu.ft.

14.1 cu.ft.

Size & Dimensions

Height

57.7 in

57.3 in

57.7 in

57.9 in.

Length

186.5 in

186.9 in

186.5 in

186.9 in.

Width, Max w/o mirrors (in.)

70.8 in

70.8 in

70.8 in

70.8 in.

Wheelbase

105.7 in

105.6 in

105.7 in

105.6 in.

Payload

893 lbs.

937 lbs.

N/A

N/A

Curb Weight

3,012 lbs.

3,311 lb.

2,974 lbs.

3,274 lbs.

Turning Diameter

36.7 ft

36.7 ft

36.7 ft.

36.7 ft.

Wheels

16-in machined alloy wheels

18-in alloy wheels

16-inch two-tone machined aluminum-

alloy

18-inch gloss black alloy wheels

Trims

S, Sport, SE, and SEL

Autobahn

S, Sport, SE, and SEL

Autobahn & 40th Anniversary Edition

 

The Good & Bad: Volkswagen Jetta

2025 VW Jetta Advantages

  • Spacious interior
  • Comfortable ride
  • Great fuel efficiency

Possible Disadvantages

  • No manual transmission

2024 VW Jetta Advantages

  • Spacious interior
  • Comfortable ride
  • Great fuel efficiency

Possible Disadvantages

  • Performance could be more engaging

Best Trim

Trims       MSRP

S        $21,995 MSRP1

Sport        $23,275 MSRP1

SE        $24,975 MSRP1

SEL       $29,000 MSRP1

The best trim level for you will depend largely on your preferences and budget. Drivers on a tighter budget will appreciate the affordable starting price of the S trim level, which starts at $21,995 MSRP.1 But even the Sport and SE trim levels stay in an attractive price range for many drivers.

Highlights of the S trim level include:

  • 16-inch machined alloy wheels
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • Rain-sensing windshield wipers
  • 8-inch infotainment display

Highlights of the Sport trim level include:

  • Integrated light bar in front grille
  • 17-inch machined alloy wheel
  • Heated front seats
  • Stainless steel pedal caps

Highlights of the SE trim level include:

  • Remote engine start
  • Wireless charging
  • CloudTex seating surfaces
  • Keyless access with push-button start

Highlights of the SEL trim level include:

  • 18-inch machined alloy wheels
  • Ventilated front seats with driver position memory
  • Heated first and second row (outboard seating positions)
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Sunroof
  • BeatsAudio® premium sound system
  • Leather seating surfaces

There really is no wrong answer since each model offers a range of amenities that bring comfort and convenience to every drive. However, if you want an abundance of premium features that will take your ownership experience to the next level, the SEL trim level might be the best option for you.

Popular Features

  • 8-inch infotainment display
  • IQ.DRIVE
  • Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
  • Available heated seats
  • Available wireless charging
  • Available sunroof
  • Available BeatsAudio® premium sound system

What’s New?

What’s New for the 2025 Jetta?

  • Exterior Updates
    • New upper and lower grille designs
    • New LED headlights
    • New available light bar
    • New trunk lid with a standard light bar
    • New wheel options:
      • SE: 17-inch aluminum alloys
      • SEL: 18-inch alloys
    • New paint colors:
      • Monterey Blue Pearl
      • Monument Gray
  • Interior Updates
    • New dashboard design
    • New colors
    • Standard floating touchscreen infotainment system with an 8-inch display
    • Standard Climatronic® Touch automatic climate control
    • New materials
  • Technology & Convenience
    • SE Upgrades:
      • SiriusXM® satellite radio
      • Voice control
      • Wireless charging
      • Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto
    • Other updates:
      • The Jetta no longer offers a manual transmission; it only offers an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Jetta GLI still offers a manual transmission.

What’s New for the 2024 Jetta?

  • Standard Features Across All Trims:
    • IQ.Drive is standard with automatic transmission models
  • S Trim Level Updates: 
    • Eco-leather trimmed steering wheel
    • Leather gearshift knob
    • Auto-dimming rearview mirror
    • Rain-sensing wiper function
  • Sport Trim Level Updates:
    • Heated front seats
    • Space-saving spare wheel
  • Jetta GLI Autobahn Update:
    • Heated steering wheel

Performance


2025 Jetta Performance

  • Engine & Power
    • Standard Engine: 1.5-liter TSI® 16-valve DOHC turbo 4-cylinder engine
      • Horsepower: 158
      • Torque: 184 lb.-ft
    • Transmission:
      • 8-speed automatic transmission
    • Jetta GLI Engine: 2.0-liter TSI® 16-valve DOHC turbo 4-cylinder engine
      • Horsepower: 228
      • Torque: 258 lb.-ft
    • Jetta GLI Transmission Options:
      • Standard: Six-speed manual.
      • Optional: Seven-speed automatic DSG®
  • Acceleration
    • Jetta:
      • 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds3
    • Jetta GLI:
      • 0-60 mph in 6.0 seconds2
  • Fuel Efficiency
    • Jetta (EPA-estimated):
      • S Trim: 29/40/33 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)
      • Sport, SE, SEL Trims: 29/40/33 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)
    • Jetta GLI (EPA-estimated):
      • Manual Transmission: 26/36/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)
      • Automatic Transmission: 25/35/29 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)

2024 Jetta Performance

  • Engine & Power
    • Standard Engine: 1.5-liter EA211 turbocharged four-cylinder engine
      • Horsepower: 158
      • Torque: 184 lb.-ft
    • Transmission Options:
      • Standard six-speed manual transmission
      • Optional eight-speed automatic transmission
    • Jetta GLI Engine: Volkswagen EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® four-cylinder engine
      • Horsepower: 228 (with premium fuel)
      • Torque: 258 lb.-ft
    • Jetta GLI Transmission Options:
      • Standard: Six-speed manual transmission
      • Optional: Seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission
  • Acceleration
    • Jetta:
      • N/A
    • Jetta GLI:
      • N/A
  • Fuel Efficiency
    • Jetta (EPA-estimated):
      • Manual Transmission: 29/42/34 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)
      • S with Automatic Transmission: 30/41/34 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)
      • Sport, SE, and SEL with Automatic Transmission: 29/40/33 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)
    • Jetta GLI (EPA-estimated):
      • Manual Transmission: 24/35/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)
      • Automatic Transmission: 26/36/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)

Technology Features

2025 Jetta Technology

  • Displays & Gauge Clusters
    • S, Sport, SE:
      • 8-inch VW Digital Cockpit (non-configurable digital instrument display)
    • SEL:
      • 10.25-inch VW Digital Cockpit Pro (configurable digital instrument display)
  • Infotainment
    • Touchscreen:
      • 8-inch infotainment display
  • Audio Systems
    • Standard:
      • 4-speaker audio system
    • SE:
      • 6-speaker audio system
    • SEL:
      • BeatsAudio® premium sound system
  • Smartphone Connectivity & Charging
    • Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™:
      • Standard
      • SE & SEL: wireless
    • Wireless Charging:
      • Standard on SE & SEL
  • Other Tech Features
    • VW Car-Net:
      • Keeps you more connected to your car. You can locate your vehicle, use Alexa to start your car, and more.
    • USB Ports:
      • Two standard USB Type-C ports
    • Wi-Fi Hotspot:
      • Available on all trims (subscription required)

2024 Jetta Technology

  • Digital Gauge Cluster and Infotainment
    • S, Sport, and SE:
      • 8-inch VW Digital Cockpit digital instrument cluster display
      • 6.5-inch touchscreen display
    • SEL:
      • 10.25-inch fully configurable VW Digital Cockpit Pro
      •  8-inch glass-covered display
  • Smartphone Connectivity & Charging
    • Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™:
      • Standard
      • SEL: standard wireless
    • Wireless Charging:
      • Standard on SE & SEL
  • Other Tech Features
    • VW Car-Net
    • Wi-Fi Hotspot:
      • Available on all trims (subscription required)

Imagery

Introducing the 2025 Jetta

 

 

 

Introducing the 2025 Jetta GLI

  

  

Appearance

2025 Interior

  • Space & Comfort:
    • Plenty of space for front and rear passengers
    • Driver-focused cabin with a clear view
  • Features & Materials:
    • S:
      • Cloth seating surfaces
      • Manually adjustable driver seat
      • Leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel
    • Sport:
      • Heated front seats
      • Sports comfort seats in front
      • Stainless steel pedal caps
    • SE:
      • 8-way power adjustable driver seat with lumbar
      • CloudTex perforated seating surfaces
    • SEL:
      • Leather seating surfaces
      • Ambient interior lighting
      • Ventilated front seats
      • Heated second-row seats (outboard seating positions)
  • Cargo Space:
    • 14.1 cubic feet

2025 Exterior

  • Design:
    • New upper and lower grille designs
    • New LED headlights and available light bar
    • New trunk lid with a standard light bar
  • Wheels:
    • SE: new 17-inch aluminum alloys
    • SEL and GLI: 18-inch alloys
    • SE and GLI: new optional black-wheel packages
  • Exterior Colors:
    • New for 2025:
      • Monterey Blue Pearl
      • Monument Gray
    • Other Available Colors:
      • Platinum Gray Metallic
      • Pyrite Silver Metallic
      • Deep Black Pearl
      • Pure White
      • Kings Red Metallic
      • Opal White

2024 Interior

  • Seating:
    • S & Sport: Cloth
    • SE: Leatherette
    • SEL: Perforated leather
  • Seat Adjustments:
    • S & Sport: Six-way adjustable driver’s seat
    • SE: Six-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment
    • SEL: Six-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment and memory
  • Cargo Space:
    • 14.1 cubic feet
  • Steering Wheel & Rearview Mirror:
    • Eco-leather trimmed steering wheel
    • Auto-dimming rearview mirror

2024 Exterior

  • Lighting:
    • Automatic headlights
    • LED signature lights
    • Standard LED headlights and daytime running lights
    • SEL: Projector LED lights
  • Mirrors & Wipers:
    • Heated side mirrors
    • Rain-sensing windshield wipers
  • 7 Exterior Colors, including:
    • Rising Blue Metallic
    • Kings Red Metallic
    • Opal White Metallic

Safety

  • 2024 & 2025 Safety Ratings
  • Advanced Safety Features
    • Standard IQ.DRIVE System:
      • Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance)
      • Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring)
      • Active Blind Spot Monitor
      • Rear Traffic Alert
      • Adaptive Cruise Control Stop and Go
      • Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System)
      • Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency)
  • Airbag & Braking Systems
    • Airbags:
      • Advanced Airbag Protection System with six airbags
      • Front and rear Side Curtain Protection® head airbags
    • Braking:
      • Anti-lock braking system
      • Electronic brake-pressure distribution
      • Hydraulic Brake Assist
      • Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
      • Engine Brake Assist
  • Stability & Traction Control
    • Electronic Stability Control
    • Anti-Slip Regulation
    • Electronic Differential Lock
  • Visibility & Monitoring
    • Rear View Camera System
    • Tire Pressure Monitoring System
  • Child & Passenger Safety
    • LATCH System: Lower Anchors & Tethers for Children
    • Front height-adjustable safety belts with pretensioners and load limiters
  • Security & Theft Prevention
    • Anti-theft alarm system with engine immobilizer

Warranty

  • New Vehicle Warranty
    • Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty:
      • 4 years or 50,000 miles (whichever comes first)2
  • Maintenance
    • Scheduled Carefree Maintenance
      • First two years of manufacturer-recommended maintenance intervals
      • 2 years or 20,000 miles (whichever comes first)3
  • Roadside Assistance
    • 24/7 Roadside Assistance:
      • Includes: towing, fuel delivery, battery jump start, lock-out service, and more4
  • Remote Features
    • myVW App:
      • Start the car remotely (if equipped with Remote Start)5
      • Lock and unlock the doors remotely
      • Set speed and boundary alerts
      • Locate your car

(Note: Requires activation of VW Car-Net through myVW enrollment)

  • Extended Protection
    • Vehicle Service Protection:
      • Up to 10 years or 150,000 miles6
      • Covers up to 1,500 parts
      • Includes 24/7 roadside assistance.7

2025 Jetta vs 2024 Jetta: Which Sedan is Better for Your Lifestyle?

Ready to get behind the wheel of your very own Volkswagen Jetta? Stop by Low Country Volkswagen for a test drive and let us know if you have any questions about this fuel-efficient, compact sedan. 

Our experts will be happy to tell you more about the Jetta model’s performance, technology, and amenities, and help you choose the right trim level for your needs. Explore our inventory to discover which models we have available or check out our pre-owned selection to see if we have any used Jetta models in stock now. 

No matter which model year you choose, we think you’ll love the Volkswagen Jetta!

FAQs


Is the 2025 Jetta worth it? 

Yes! If you’re looking for a well-rounded compact sedan, this is it! Ideal for commuters, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta offers noteworthy fuel efficiency — that means fewer stops at the pump! It’s also an affordable option for many drivers, offering a starting MSRP of $21,995.1 Feel free to come test-drive different trim levels at Low Country Volkswagen to see how they compare to each other and discover which one is the best fit for your lifestyle.

How much does the 2025 VW Jetta cost?

A 2025 Volkswagen Jetta offers a low starting MSRP, making this sedan an attractive option for shoppers on a budget. Here’s a breakdown of each trim level’s starting MSRP:

2025 Volkswagen Jetta S: $21,995 MSRP1

2025 Volkswagen Jetta Sport: $23,275 MSRP1

2025 Volkswagen Jetta SE: $24,975 MSRP1

2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL: $29,000 MSRP1


Does the 2025 Jetta offer a manual transmission?

No. Manual transmission was done away with for the 2025 model year and is no longer available. Instead, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2025 Jetta GLI Sport Sedan, on the other hand, offers a six-speed manual transmission, as well as a seven-speed automatic DSG® transmission option.

Is the 2025 Jetta safe?

Yes. The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). You can breathe easier knowing that a variety of safety features like a Blind Spot Monitor, Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Pedestrian Monitoring add extra protection to your drives.

What are the trim levels for the 2025 Jetta?

Take your pick from four trim levels in the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta lineup:

  • 2025 Volkswagen Jetta S
  • 2025 Volkswagen Jetta Sport
  • 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SE
  • 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL

What is the highest trim of Jetta?

The highest trim level of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta lineup is the SEL. This top-level trim offers premium features that promise to enhance your ownership experience. These include:

  • Ventilated front seats with driver position memory
  • Heated seats: first and second row (outboard seating positions)
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Sunroof
  • Ambient interior lighting
  • 10.25-inch VW Digital Cockpit Pro (Configurable)
  • BeatsAudio® premium sound system
  • Leather seating surfaces
  • Navigation

Are there any new changes for the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta?

Yes, both the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta and Jetta GLI come with new interior and exterior details. Exterior updates include:

  • New upper and lower grille designs
  • New LED headlights
  • New available light bar
  • New trunk lid with a standard light bar
  • New wheel options
  • New paint colors: Monterey Blue Pearl and Monument Gray

Interior updates include:

  • New dashboard design
  • Standard floating touchscreen infotainment system with an 8-inch display
  • Standard Climatronic® Touch automatic climate control
  • New materials

How many miles can the VW Jetta offer?

With proper care and by keeping up with routine maintenance, you can expect a new Volkswagen Jetta to last at least 200,000 miles. At Low Country Volkswagen, we have a skilled VW service team here to provide reliable service and repairs to help you keep your Volkswagen model healthy!

What Jetta is the fastest?

While both the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta and 2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI have a top speed of 126 miles per hour, the Jetta GLI pulls ahead with the ability to reach 60 miles per hour in only 6.0 seconds.8 The Jetta can reach 60 miles per hour in 7.1 seconds.9

Is a Jetta GLI or Golf GTI faster?

The Golf GTI is slightly faster than the Jetta GLI, with the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn offering a top speed of 128 mph and the ability to reach 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, according to Car and Driver.10

How much horsepower does a 2025 Jetta GLI have?

The 2025 Jetta GLI Sport Sedan produces 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, thanks to its 2.0-liter TSI® 16-valve DOHC turbo 4-cylinder engine, which is paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission.

What colors are the Jetta GLI 2025?

The 2025 Jetta GLI offers a variety of exterior paint color options:

  • Kings Red Metallic
  • Kings Red Metallic with Deep Black Pearl
  • Deep Black Pearl
  • Monterey Blue Pearl
  • Monterey Blue Pearl with Deep Black Pearl
  • Monument Gray
  • Pure White
  • Monument Gray with Black Roof
  • Pure White with Deep Black Pearl

Does the Jetta GLI require premium gas?

No, the Jetta GLI only requires regular-unleaded gas 87 AKI. You can expect it to get an EPA-estimated 26/36/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).

 

*Disclaimer by Low Country Volkswagen:

Low Country Volkswagen believes the information and specifications in this website to be correct at the time of publishing.

Model specifications provided may vary based on selected trim, options, and installed accessories. Specifications, standard features, options, fabrics, accessories, colors, and other features related to the vehicles are subject to change without notice. Values are based on MSRP and exclude taxes, fees, and adjustments. Please visit certified dealers for more accurate pricing.

Images of vehicles are for illustrative purposes only. Please see the dealer for details and availability.

1Price excludes destination, taxes, title, other options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.

24 years/50,000 miles (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty on all MY20 and newer vehicles. See owner’s literature or dealer for warranty exclusions and limitations.

3VW’s Carefree Maintenance program provides the 10,000- and 20,000-mile scheduled maintenance services or scheduled maintenance services for two years (whichever occurs first) as stated in the vehicle’s maintenance booklet on all MY20 and newer vehicles. See dealer or owner’s literature for provided services, exclusions, and time and other limitations. The Carefree Maintenance program does not provide tire rotations, or other services or parts not specified in the owner’s literature.

43 years/36,000 miles (whichever occurs first) Roadside Assistance on all MY20 and newer vehicles provided by a third party. May require additional payment for services rendered. See owner’s literature or dealer for limitations and details.

5Requires myVW mobile app, acceptance of Car-Net Terms of Service, and compatible factory-installed or dealer-installed remote start feature. See Owner’s Manual for further details and important warnings about the keyless ignition feature. Do not leave vehicle unattended with the engine running, particularly in enclosed spaces, and consult local laws for any limitations on use. Standard text and data rates may apply.

6The purchase of Volkswagen Drive Easy Protection Vehicle Service Protection is optional and is not required for you to obtain financing for the purchase or lease of a vehicle. Vehicle Service Protection coverage runs concurrently with any applicable manufacturer’s warranties. In-Warranty (New) plan expiration is measured in time or miles, whichever occurs first, from the Agreement Purchase Date and zero (0) miles. Out-of-Warranty plan expiration is measured in time or miles, whichever occurs first, from the Agreement Purchase Date and the Current Odometer Reading as listed on the Customer Agreement Registration Page.

7Due to a covered mechanical breakdown. Please consult your Customer Agreement for complete terms and conditions.

8See Car and Driver.

9See Car and Driver.

10See Car and Driver.