2025 Jetta GLI Review: Sporty, Practical and Just a Bit Spicy

The Volkswagen Jetta GLI has always been the under-the-radar alternative to the GTI.  It offers much of the same hot hatch magic, although with a sedan body. While other brands have ditched their fun, sporty sedans, VW is keeping the GLI alive for at least one more model year.

The 2025 VW Jetta GLI doesn’t get a full redesign, but it’s still packing everything that has made it a fun, daily-drivable sports sedan for decades. A turbocharged punch, sporty suspension, and European charm give it a unique place in today’s shrinking manual-transmission sedan world.

Does it still offer the perfect blend of fun and practicality, or is it starting to feel a little outdated? Let’s take a deep dive into what makes the 2025 Jetta GLI special.

Powertrain: Still Turbo, Still Fun

Volkswagen didn’t mess with the formula too much for 2025, meaning the Jetta GLI still packs a respectable punch.

Engine & Performance Specs:

• 2.0L turbocharged inline-4
• 228 hp / 258 lb-ft of torque
• 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic
• Front-wheel drive (no AWD option)
• 0-60 mph: 6.0 seconds
• Top Speed: Around 130 mph
• Sport-tuned suspension with adaptive dampers

The 2.0L turbo four banger engine remains a sweet spot for daily driving and spirited runs. It delivers a solid kick of low-end torque, making it feel quicker than the numbers suggest. The manual transmission keeps it engaging and pretty fun, while the DSG automatic is rapid-fire fast, though it lacks a bit of personality and fun from rowing your own gears.

One thing that stands out? The GLI still offers a traditional, honest-to-goodness driving experience. No overcomplicated hybrid systems, no fake engine noises pumped through the speakers…just turbo power, a solid chassis, and a good time.

What Makes the GLI Special?

Volkswagen markets the GLI as a GTI for sedan lovers, and that’s exactly what it is. It has a more aggressive stance, sportier tuning, and better handling than the standard Jetta.

GLI Performance Features:

• Limited-slip differential for better grip in corners
• Multi-link rear suspension (base Jettas get a cheaper torsion beam)
• Bigger brakes for improved stopping power
• Selectable drive modes (Normal, Sport, Comfort, Individual)
• Sport exhaust for a throatier sound
• Optional DCC adaptive suspension

This isn’t just a Jetta with a bigger engine. The limited-slip diff and multi-link rear suspension help it carve corners far better than the standard model. It’s playful but controlled, giving it a dynamic edge over many rivals in the segment.

The biggest advantage? The GLI is comfortable enough for daily driving, meaning you can push it on backroads without feeling like your spine is being jackhammered into submission.

2025 VW Jetta Trim Levels: More Than Just the GLI

For those not interested in the sportier GLI, the 2025 Jetta lineup includes some solid, fuel-efficient options:

Jetta S (Base Model)

• • 1.5L turbo I4 (158 hp, 184 lb-ft)
  • Manual or automatic
  • Basic tech package, cloth seats
  • Affordable but still refined

Jetta SE

• • More upscale interior with synthetic leather
  • Larger infotainment screen
  • Available panoramic sunroof
  • A great middle ground for comfort and value

Jetta SEL

• • Fully loaded with all the luxury touches
  • Beats premium sound system
  • Heated and ventilated leather seats
  • More driver-assist features

Jetta GLI

• • 2.0L turbo engine (228 hp, 258 lb-ft)
  • Performance suspension, bigger brakes
  • Sportier styling and unique badging
  • Manual or DSG auto

For those who don’t need the full GLI experience, the regular Jetta models are solid options, offering fuel efficiency and comfort without breaking the bank.

Competitors: Who Else Is in the Game?

The sporty compact sedan category isn’t as crowded as it once was, but the GLI still has competition.

Honda Civic Si

• • 1.5L turbo I4 (200 hp, 192 lb-ft)
  • 6-speed manual only (no automatic)
  • Better steering feel, but less power than the GLI

Hyundai Elantra N

• • 2.0L turbo I4 (276 hp, 289 lb-ft)
  • 6-speed manual or 8-speed DCT auto
  • More aggressive, but louder and stiffer ride

Mazda3 Turbo

• • 2.5L turbo I4 (250 hp, 320 lb-ft with premium fuel)
  • All-wheel drive, automatic only
  • More refined, but less of a driver’s car

Toyota Corolla GR

• • 1.6L turbo I3 (300 hp, 273 lb-ft)
  • Manual only, all-wheel drive
  • Rally-inspired fun, but a tad pricier than the GLI

The Civic Si is the closest direct competitor, though it’s down on power. The Elantra N is the wild child, offering more power but a harsher ride. The Mazda3 Turbo Sedan is refined but lacks a manual option, while the Toyota GR Corolla is the most extreme choice, priced well above the GLI.

What Could Be Better?

The Jetta GLI is still a great package, but a few things could be improved:

• No all-wheel drive option – The Mazda3 Turbo and GR Corolla both offer AWD, making them better for bad weather and grip.
• Interior tech is starting to feel dated – The infotainment system works fine, but it’s not as flashy as what you’ll find in some newer rivals.
• No horsepower increase for 2025 – The Elantra N and GR Corolla have pushed the power envelope further. VW could have given the GLI a bit more juice to keep up.
• More differentiation from the standard Jetta – The GLI looks sportier, but it doesn’t stand out dramatically from lower trims. A bit more aggressive styling would have been welcome.

Our Verdict: Is the 2025 VW Jetta GLI a Good Buy?

The 2025 VW Jetta GLI is still one of the best sporty sedans in its price range. It offers plenty of fun without sacrificing daily usability, making it a great balance between performance and practicality.

For those who want a GTI experience with a little more room, the GLI is an easy recommendation. It’s quick enough, handles well, and won’t punish you on long commutes. Would it be even better with all-wheel drive and a power bump? Absolutely. Still, it remains one of the last fun, affordable sport sedans standing.

Do you think the Jetta GLI is a good sport sedan, or has VW played it too safe? Drop a comment below and let’s talk about it!