2025 Jetta and Jetta GLI deliver greater refinement, new technology, and better value
09/03/2024
Volkswagen
For more than forty years, the Jetta's winning combination of style, quality, safety, and value have continued to make it Volkswagen's best-selling car in North America. Updated for 2025, the Jetta and performance-tuned Jetta GLI offer revised styling, interior refinements, and new technology. Starting at $21,995, the 2025 Jetta also offers even greater value as compared to the outgoing automatic model. The 2025 GLI starts at $32,715 MSRP. Destination for all Jetta models is $1,225.
Exterior
Underpinned by Volkswagen's MQB platform, the Jetta's elegant, coupe-like profile is complemented by a revised front fascia that features new upper and lower grille designs that emphasize the Jetta's athleticism. New LED headlights, as well as an available light bar, provide a distinctive and modern appearance, while a new trunk lid with a standard light bar connecting the taillights adds a touch of elegance to the rear.
LED headlights and daytime running lights (DRLs) are standard from the S trim, while the illuminated light bar in the grille is standard on Sport, SEL, and GLI models. The Sport trim features a blacked-out grille. GLI models feature black upper and lower grilles with honeycomb detailing and a red accent strip that draws a visual connection to its sport-tuned stablemate, GTI. As on GTI, the GLI lettering sits above to the left.
The front end flows into the roofline, where a 'phase'-a narrow strip that runs parallel to the actual roofline and into the C-pillar-visually reduces the car's height, contributing to the Jetta's more coupe-like appearance. An acoustically optimized panoramic glass tilt/slide sunroof is optional on SE models and standard on the SEL and GLI. The optional Black Package on GLI models adds a black roof.
The distinctive side profile of the Jetta remains, with the bold character line featured in the previous model marrying the assertive front end to the solid rear wheelarches. An arch-shaped trailing edge extends into the shoulder section and forms the aerodynamic termination of the trunk lid. Chrome window trim is standard along the side of S, SE, and SEL models, while the Sport trim and GLI models feature black window surrounds. The Sport trim also features black mirror caps, which are optional on GLI as part of the Black Package.
At the rear, the new light bar elegantly connects the taillights, while sharply-lined LED taillight clusters emphasize the sedan's impressive width. SEL models feature a chrome accent on the rear, while GLI models add a black honeycomb diffuser and a wider dual exhaust.
All Jetta models feature a remarkably low drag coefficient. Standard Jetta models have a Cd of just 0.26 , while GLI models have a Cd of 0.31. To attain this figure, the Jetta features an active radiator shutter and air curtain intakes on each side, which allow air to flow smoothly past the front wheelarches. To further optimize airflow, the Jetta utilizes aerodynamic wheel designs and underbody panels.
Each trim receives differentiated wheels. The Jetta S comes standard with 16-inch two-tone machined alloy wheels with a 10-spoke design wrapped in 205/60 R16 all-season tires. The Sport trim includes 17-inch two-tone machined alloy wheels with a 10-spoke design. Jetta SE models feature new 17-inch two-tone wheels with a 10-spoke design as standard, while the optional Black Wheels Package offers new 18-inch black alloys. Jetta SEL models wear new 18-inch alloys. The GLI comes with new 18-inch machined alloy wheels standard, with 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels in the same design available in the Black Package. All models with 17-inch wheels feature 205/55 R17 all-season tires; all models with 18-inch wheels feature 225/45 R18 all-season tires.
Two new exterior color options-Monterey Blue Pearl and Monument Gray-join the roster for 2025. The 2025 Jetta will be available in eight exterior colors, including Opal White Pearl, Pure White, Deep Black Pearl, Platinum Grey Metallic, Pyrite Silver Metallic, and Kings Red Metallic, along with the two new colors. GLI is offered in five colors: Pure White, Deep Black, Kings Red Metallic, and the two new colors.
Interior
The interior of the Jetta is refined, with a spacious and comfortable cabin and ample cargo room. The Jetta is 186.5 inches long, 70.8 inches wide and 57.7 inches tall, with a wheelbase of 105.7 inches. GLI dimensions are only slightly different-186.9 inches long, 57.3 inches tall, with a width of 70.8 inches and a wheelbase of 105.6 inches. Both boast generous passenger space, 14.1 cubic feet of trunk space, and standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats.
The Jetta features a new dash design as well as new colors and decor across the range. The revised upper dash seamlessly integrates the passenger air vent, while chrome optic and matte or grained piano black accents add to the upscale theme. The flowing, three-bar design also directs the eye to the new focal point for the cabin-the floating touchscreen infotainment system, which now boasts an 8-inch display as standard across all models. Climatronic(R) Touch automatic climate control is now standard as well, adding to the sleek look in the center stack.
Rhombus cloth seats in either Titan Black or Storm Grey are standard on Jetta S, while Sport models bring in the embossed molekular cloth seats first seen on the GLI 40th Edition in Titan Black. Both S and Sport models feature Brushed Silver decor.
SE models are outfitted with new perforated, two-tone Microcloud leatherette seating surfaces, in either Grey/Titan Black or Seawall Blue/Storm Grey combinations, alongside String Figure decor. SEL models feature perforated Vienna leather seating surfaces in either Grey/Titan Black or a new Brown/Titan Black color combination, with Horizon Black decor. GLI models are uniquely equipped with new perforated Vienna leather seating surfaces in Grey/ Titan Black with red contrast stitching, alongside Magnum matte decor.
A six-way adjustable driver's seat is standard on all models, while SE models and above add power and lumbar adjustment; SEL and GLI models offer a driver's seat memory feature. Front seats are heated on all but S models; SEL trims add heated outboard rear seats. SEL and GLI models feature ventilated front seats as standard.
Padded leatherette door inserts are standard across all models; Jetta SEL and GLI models boast contrast stitching for added visual character-ceramic colored on Jetta and red on GLI. Contrast stitching is also found throughout the cockpit of all Jetta models, accenting the revised dash, shifter housing, and both door and center armrests. S, SE and GLI models carry a leather-wrapped steering wheel; SEL models add heating capability.
GLI features a heated, leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with touch functions; DSG(R)-equipped models add paddle shifters. A leather-wrapped shift knob is standard on GLI manual models; GLI models equipped with DSG sport an aluminum shift knob. Sport and GLI models feature a black headliner and stainless-steel pedal caps; the GLI adds illuminated scuff plates. A 10-color ambient lighting system is standard on Jetta SEL and GLI models, washing the interior with the selected hue.
Jetta and GLI models carry an array of comfort and convenience features across the lineup. Automatic headlights, heated side mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and rain-sensing wipers are standard equipment. Dual-zone Climatronic touch automatic climate control is new for 2025 and standard across the lineup. KESSY(R) keyless access with push-button start, and remote start are standard on Jetta SE, SEL, and GLI models. SEL models add a heated windshield wiper park and washer nozzles, along with heated rear outboard seats.
Connecting devices is easy with standard Composition Color infotainment, including App-Connect, Bluetooth(R) technology for compatible devices, and two USB-C ports in the center stack that feature 45-watt fast charging. SE models add Composition Media infotainment with Voice Control and SiriusXM(R) with 360L (3-month Platinum Plan trial), plus wireless App-Connect and wireless charging. SEL models add navigation. With a paid Car-Net(R) Wi-Fi Hotspot subscription and Plus Nav Package, maps can be automatically updated with the most up-to-date traffic and construction information.
The advanced Volkswagen Digital Cockpit system, standard on all Jetta models, presents drivers with a fully digital instrument cluster. S, Sport, and SE models feature an 8-inch display with two views and customizable widgets to show a variety of vehicle information. SEL and GLI models receive the 10.25-inch fully configurable Digital Cockpit Pro with up to four views-including full-screen navigation-and numerous viewing options, including car status, navigation, driving data, phone information, driver assistance features, and more.
There are three speaker configurations for Jetta-S and Sport models include four speakers, while SE models feature six. Jetta SEL and GLI feature the BeatsAudio(R) system. This setup showcases a 12-channel, 400-watt amplifier, digital signal processing and nine speakers, including a subwoofer.
SiriusXM with 360L. Jetta and GLI models offer the most advanced audio entertainment platform-SiriusXM with 360L. SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience and provides more choice and a more personalized listening experience. Available by subscription (three-month trial subscription included), SiriusXM with 360L delivers more SiriusXM channels, an expansive library of on demand content, plus personalized "For You" recommendations help listeners to discover more of what they love. An enhanced sports play-by-play offering makes it easier to find the listener's favorite team when it is game time, and individual listener profiles allow multiple drivers and passengers to customize their own favorite channels.
Volkswagen Car-Net. For model year 2025, myVW users can enroll in a number of Car-Net connected services such as: Remote Access, Safe & Secure, Vehicle Insights, and Wi-Fi- Hotspot. The Vehicle Insights plan will be available this Fall at no additional charge for seven years from original vehicle in-service date. For vehicles with a compatible infotainment system and active data plan, additional online features are available with a paid subscription that provides enhanced navigation and infotainment.
Remote Access allows users the ability to interact with their vehicle via the myVW mobile app. It is offered at no additional charge for five years from the date of vehicle purchase. Features include remote start and stop (if equipped), door lock and unlock, honk and flash of lights, last parked location, parking information, Vehicle Alerts, and Roadside Call Assist.
For vehicles equipped with factory-installed navigation systems, Car-Net can make customers' lives easier by locating off-street parking information and sending destinations or points of interest directly to their car from the app. The parking information feature, Powered by ParkopediaTM, is accessed through the Navigate tab on the app. Users can click the "P" icon to show available parking locations, either in the immediate vicinity or near a Point of Interest. Clicking on a specific location will display the address, hours of operation and pricing. Users can also send the location to their car's navigation system, if so equipped, by clicking the "Send to Vehicle" button.
Vehicle Alerts and Roadside Call Assist can provide added peace-of-mind no matter who is driving. Speed Alert notifies the user when the pre-determined maximum speed limit is exceeded. Boundary Alert lets the user know when the vehicle has traveled outside of a pre-set virtual boundary. Curfew Alert notifies the user if the vehicle is driven while curfew alert is on. Valet Alert warns if the vehicle is driven more than 0.2 miles from the valet drop-off location. The myVW app allows users to control who receives notifications by designating primary and secondary users, with varying levels of control and functionality for each. Notifications can come in the form of text messages, emails, or push notifications from the mobile app itself. If the vehicle is disabled, Roadside Call Assist is available at the touch of the wrench button.
With the Car-Net skill enabled on your Amazon devices, users can ask Alexa TM to send remote commands to their vehicle from the comfort of their own home-for instance: "Alexa, ask Car-Net to honk my horn." To set up, users who have an active Amazon account should open the skills page associated with their car model in their Alexa app and link the skill to their VW Car-Net account.
Safe & Secure is available at no additional cost for five years for model year 2025 vehicles. Upon activation, the five-year plan includes Emergency Assistance, Information Assistance, Automatic Crash Notification, Anti-Theft Alert (requires the myVW app), Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance, Vehicle H.E.L.P.(R), and Roadside Awareness Alerts. Emergency Assistance can be accessed through the SOS button in the vehicle, and, if a cellular connection can be established, puts the driver in contact with the Volkswagen Response center, who can direct emergency responders to the vehicle's location and notify the user's Emergency Contact. Information Assistance-accessed through the i-call button within the vehicle-allows the driver to speak to a Volkswagen Response agent for support needs, such as points of interest and account services. Provided a cellular connection can be established, Automatic Crash Notification can help automatically notify an operator who can quickly contact first responders in the event of a collision. Anti-Theft Alert sends a push notification to the user if the vehicle's anti-theft alarm is triggered, and Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance uses vehicle location to assist law enforcement with tracking the vehicle in the event that it is stolen.
Vehicle H.E.L.P. and Roadside Awareness Alerts are new additions to the Safe and Secure plan and will be available for select vehicles in the Fall. Vehicle H.E.L.P. can be activated by the driver if their vehicle is disabled on the road due to a crash or maintenance issue (e.g., flat tire). Once activated, this feature can notify oncoming drivers that they are approaching a disabled vehicle to help avoid potential collisions. Roadside Awareness Alerts are in-vehicle warnings that may appear when an emergency vehicle or disabled vehicle is nearby. To activate the plan, accept the Car-Net Terms of Service during myVW sign up and then enroll in Safe & Secure located in the Shop section of the myVW app.
Coming this Fall, the new Vehicle Insights plan is available for seven years (from original vehicle in-service date) at no additional charge for model year 2025 vehicles. With this plan, the user has access to vehicle health, status, and maintenance alerts. Vehicle Health Reports provide easy access to vehicle diagnostic information. Reports generate automatically each month after enrollment and are sent directly to the email address in the user's profile; updated reports can be requested anytime through the mobile app. Users can also check vehicle status to make sure their vehicle is fueled up and ready for their next commute. Additionally, users can receive maintenance notifications when their vehicle may need attention at their local VW dealer.
A Wi-Fi Hotspot data plan subscription allows passengers to access the internet with up to four connected devices simultaneously, including compatible tablets, smartphones, laptops, gaming devices, and more-at 4G LTE-enabled speed. Volkswagen's Carrier of Choice gives our customers the option to select a Wi-Fi data plan from either VerizonTM or T-Mobile(R). With just a few clicks in the myVW mobile app, users can add their new Volkswagen vehicle to their existing mobile data plan or purchase a new one. Verizon Wireless or T-Mobile customers with an existing mobile data plan can simply add their Volkswagen vehicle as a new line item to their existing monthly bill; non-Verizon or T-Mobile customers can set up an unlimited plan for $20/month (taxes and fees may apply). With an active Wi-Fi data plan, the Plus Online radio subscription can be purchased to enable online internet radio with 30,000+ radio stations and podcasts. Media streaming apps can also be accessed at no additional charge, including iHeartRadioTM and TIDALTM (both require existing accounts).
Car-Net also offers additional annual paid subscription packages to enhance the navigation and infotainment experience for MY25 VW users with a compatible infotainment system. The Plus Nav package allows drivers to access online map updates, traffic reports, fuel prices, and parking information. The Plus Speech package offers advanced voice controls using natural language to enhance map destination entry for addresses and points of interest, media on demand, and more. For certain MY25 vehicles, Plus Speech with AI is available. The Plus Speech with AI package brings advanced voice control to the next level. With the help of generative AI, users can get answers to a wider range of questions and requests.
To activate these connected features, users must download the myVW mobile app and accept the myVW and Car-Net terms of service. Some services mentioned require additional enrollment.
Powertrain
Under the hood, the Jetta retains its 1.5-liter EA211 turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. Producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, the EA211 features Volkswagen's modified version of the Miller cycle, wherein the intake valves are closed early in the induction stroke to help with fuel economy. For a turbocharged engine, it has a very high compression ratio of up to 11.5 to 1.
The EA211 is matched with an eight-speed automatic transmission, a combination which blends sporty performance with an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 29 mpg city, 39 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined for S. Sport, SE and SEL models have an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 29 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined.
Meanwhile, the Jetta GLI is powered by a Volkswagen EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI(R) four-cylinder engine that offers up 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine features variable valve timing on the intake and exhaust sides, as well as variable exhaust valve lift. Innovative solutions such as water-cooled exhaust gas routing through the cylinder head to the turbocharger also help reduce full-load fuel consumption. Thanks to its fully electronic coolant control system, the engine also offers efficient thermal management with a short warm-up phase; this helps reduce friction and decrease fuel consumption.
The power is routed to the front wheels by way of a standard six-speed manual transmission, with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission optionally available. Jetta GLI models with the standard six-speed manual transmission have an EPA-estimated rating of 26 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined. Models equipped with the optional seven-speed DSG(R) dual-clutch automatic transmission have an EPA-estimated rating of 25 mpg city, 35 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined. All ratings are based on regular unleaded fuel.
Chassis
Both the Jetta and GLI are built upon Volkswagen's Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform architecture. Both body and chassis boast a large percentage of ultra-high-strength, hot-formed steel, which allows the use of thinner and lighter parts without loss in strength. From a structural standpoint, the MQB platform provides extremely high body rigidity, which has benefits for the vehicle's handling and ride.
Mounted in a lightweight, two-piece steel subframe, the strut-type front suspension on Jetta and GLI models has lower control arms and long-travel coil springs, telescopic dampers and an anti-roll bar. At the back, standard Jetta models feature a torsion beam rear setup with telescopic dampers, offering an optimal balance of ride comfort, handling, and weight. For 2025, Jetta Sport, SE and SEL models add a 0.6-inch lower sport suspension for an even more dynamic driving experience.
GLI models feature a multi-link rear suspension and a rear anti-roll bar, as well as sport-tuned gas-filled shock absorbers. With stiffer springs and a 0.6-inch lower stance than base Jetta model, the GLI sport suspension delivers a performance-focused ride without sacrificing comfort.
The Jetta Sport trim and GLI models are equipped with the XDS(R) Cross Differential System. The XDS system acts as an electronic substitute for a traditional mechanical limited-slip differential, actively monitoring data from each wheel sensor. If the suspension becomes unloaded, the system automatically applies braking to the driven inside wheel as needed to help reduce understeer (the tendency for the front wheels to run wide). This not only helps stability, but can also help improve handling and cornering performance.
On Jetta models, an electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering assembly contributes to the fun-to-drive character of the Jetta. The system is speed sensitive, with a ratio of 13.4:1 and 2.66 turns lock-to-lock. At highway speeds, the steering becomes firm and direct, while at parking speeds, assistance is increased. The turning circle is 35.8 feet.
The GLI features progressive variable-ratio electric power steering system. This is an elegant solution to help with a common problem with steering systems, which is that different speeds and maneuvers ideally require different steering rates. In this case, the teeth on the steering rack are spaced more tightly toward the center than on a normal rack. The lower steering ratio in the center means that the car can respond quickly when entering a turn, while the higher ratio at the ends of the rack can help reduce the amount of effort needed near full steering lock, such as when parking. The steering wheel goes from lock to lock in just 2.1 turns.
Finally, an impressive braking system rounds out the performance of the Jetta and GLI. At the front, there are 11.3-inch vented discs, with 10.7-inch discs at the rear. Further underlining its high-performance capabilities, the GLI features front brakes that are shared with the previous generation Golf R, using 13.4-inch diameter vented discs. The rear brakes, using 11.8-inch vented discs, are also larger than on standard Jetta models. Both vehicles feature a brake disc drying feature to help remove water from the rotors to help optimize wet-weather braking, as well as Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution (EBD), and Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA). All Jetta models also feature an electronic parking brake.
Driving Mode Selection. The Driving Mode Selection feature in Jetta SEL and GLI offers four modes: "Comfort," "Eco," "Sport," and "Custom." Comfort and Sport have a different steering heft and throttle response, while Custom allows a driver to tailor the steering and throttle to their preference. On cars with the automatic transmissions, the Sport mode gives more aggressive shifts. Eco mode optimizes shift points, throttle response and climate control settings for improved fuel economy compared to other drive modes. Throttle response and ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) acceleration are also dampened.
DCC(R). The Jetta GLI features the DCC adaptive damping system which manages the suspension's rebound and compression rates individually, helping to improve vehicle dynamics. The DCC adaptive damping system continuously reacts to the road surface and driving situation while taking account of various inputs including steering, braking, and acceleration. By means of the set driving profile mode, the driver can influence the reduction in body motion as desired. The required damping is calculated for each wheel and adjusted at the four dampers within fractions of a second. This ensures that DCC always provides the highest level of driving comfort and ideal driving dynamics. For example, "Comfort" optimizes the dampers for a smooth highway ride, while "Sport" favors a firmer setting for better cornering performance.
VAQ torque-sensing limited-slip differential. The Jetta GLI features the sophisticated VAQ electronically-controlled, front limited-slip differential, shared with other Volkswagen performance models. The VAQ differential offers the benefits of a traditional limited-slip differential, but adds significantly to its effectiveness by monitoring the data from each wheel sensor at all times. Since this data includes both vehicle and wheel speed, as well as yaw and lateral g-force, the system can make precise adjustments to help maintain an optimum torque balance between the left and right front wheels.
Up to a full 100 percent of torque can be transferred to either side, as opposed to the fixed "best guess" percentage seen in traditional limited-slip differentials. The result of this proactive (rather than reactive) system is the reduction of understeer and torque steer.
Safety and Driver Assistance
To help protect occupants, Jetta and GLI models provide a combination of both passive and active safety systems. It features six airbags as standard (front and side airbags for front passengers and side curtain airbags for outboard seating positions), along with a number of electronic safety systems, such as an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
A standard feature on Jetta family models is Volkswagen's Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. This builds on the premise that a collision is rarely a single, instantaneous action, but rather a series of events that follow the initial impact-the most significant of which can cause additional collisions. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System helps address this, in certain crash scenarios, by applying the brakes when a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors, thus potentially reducing residual kinetic energy and, in turn, the chance of additional damage.
The Jetta and GLI also include Volkswagen's Intelligent Crash Response System that shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collisions.
Volkswagen's IQ.DRIVE(R) advanced driver assistance technology features hands-on semi-automated capability. On the highway, IQ.DRIVE features lane centering and a capacitive steering wheel to help make driving easier. Around town, IQ.DRIVE can alert you to certain surprise obstacles in front of you and helps keep an eye around you to help make driving safer.
The IQ.DRIVE system is standard on all trims for model year 2025. The system utilizes front and rear radar, a front camera and several ultrasound sensors to collect data from the surrounding area, enabling the following features: 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 (ACC) Stop and Go; Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System); and Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency).
Travel Assist enables semi-automated hands-on driving capability from 0 to 95 mph. Travel Assist can be activated by a button on the steering wheel and uses the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Assist (Lane Keeping Assist) features to help to steer as well as accelerate and brake the vehicle in response to traffic and center the vehicle within lane markings. This allows the driver to observe driving tasks while using minimal force on the wheel. It is the driver's responsibility to continuously monitor the system, remain alert, and maintain control of the vehicle at all times. To ensure this, Travel Assist monitors the capacitive steering wheel to make sure the driver has their hands on it.
Front Assist is intended to warn drivers of potential frontal collisions (Forward Collision Warning) with vehicles and pedestrians, and in some cases provide automatic braking assistance (Automatic Emergency Braking). The system can detect pedestrians traveling parallel to the vehicle and alert the driver.
Within physical system limits, Front Assist, or Forward Collision Warning, warns the driver of potential imminent front-end collision situations, both acoustically and visually by a warning symbol in the instrument cluster if the car is traveling above 18 mph. Furthermore, an automatic jolt of the brakes can warn the driver of the danger. If the driver fails to brake, Automatic Emergency Braking is activated to help slow the vehicle. If the car is traveling below 18 mph and the system detects a potential front-end collision, Automatic Emergency Braking activates without a prior acoustic and visual warning. If the brake pedal is applied but the driver brakes too lightly, the brake pressure can be increased by the system (Braking Support).
Blind Spot Monitor uses two radar sensors at the rear of the vehicle to scan the approaching traffic and is intended to warn drivers of the presence of other vehicles in adjacent lanes. If the driver uses the turn signal to indicate a lane change while a vehicle is detected in a blind spot, the system utilizes a flashing LED symbol in the outer area of the side mirrors. Even if the driver does not use a turn signal, the LED symbol in the mirror will illuminate if a vehicle is detected in the blind spot. The system is designed to help alert drivers in specific situations; stationary objects or oncoming vehicles do not trigger warnings, nor do vehicles more than one lane across away from the vehicle.
If Lane Assist is active, Blind Spot Monitor becomes Active Blind Spot Monitor and the system not only warns the driver with the flashing LED symbol if a vehicle is detected in the blind spot, but within system limits, it can also countersteer to help keep the car in its lane even if the turn signal is on. If the driver still tries to steer out of the lane, the system will warn with an additional vibration of the steering wheel.
The Rear Traffic Alert system is intended to detect vehicles approaching from the side that may be difficult for the driver to see while reversing. The system offers a 180-degree view of the back of the car, and will present a visual and an acoustic warning if a potential collision with a crossing vehicle is detected. If the driver does not react, the system can apply the brakes to help mitigate and, in the best case, can prevent a collision. The system is activated by putting the car in reverse.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) uses a forward-facing radar to maintain a set speed while helping maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front. The driver sets the speed and the desired spacing via buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and can further use those buttons to adjust and cancel the ACC function while the accelerator can be used to override the ACC function. Pressing the brakes always cancels the ACC function. All ACC-related system messages appear in the central multifunction display.
When the roadway ahead of the vehicle is clear, the system maintains the set speed. Models fitted with ACC can match speeds with a vehicle in front and come to a stop if the vehicle in front stops. If the car in front moves within three seconds, ACC will resume automatically to the set speed. If the car stands longer than three seconds, the driver can resume ACC control by pressing the accelerator pedal or the "resume" button on the steering wheel.
Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System) uses cameras to recognize lane markings and help drivers stay within them. When driving above 35 mph, if the system's camera recognizes visible lane markings and, using a special algorithm, calculates that the vehicle is unintentionally straying from its lane without using a turn signal, Lane Assist will vibrate the steering wheel to warn the driver, and then actively countersteer to help keep the vehicle in its lane. If the driver takes his or her hands off the wheel for a defined period of time, the system provides an audible warning and a visual signal in the instrument cluster, asking the driver to take over.
The system will not intervene if it cannot properly detect lane markings. If the turn signal has been set before crossing a lane marking, the Lane Assist system will not intervene or give a warning. The driver can override the system at any time by applying minimal force to the steering wheel.
Emergency Assist (not available on manual-transmission models) can bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver is incapacitated. Emergency Assist constantly monitors the driver's attentiveness by checking the input of their hands on the steering wheel. If the system does not detect driver input, a series of warnings (visual, audible, and brake jolts) will occur. If still no input is detected, Emergency Assist will slow the vehicle to a gradual stop in its own lane and activate hazard lights. Emergency Assist requires Lane Assist or Travel Assist to be active for the system to intervene.
In addition to IQ.DRIVE, the Jetta SEL and GLI feature Light Assist (High Beam Control for headlights), which automatically switches on the headlamp high beams above 18 mph on dark or poorly lit roads, if there is no oncoming traffic detected. Below 12 mph, the high beams automatically switch off.
Warranty & Maintenance
Every 2025 Jetta and GLI comes with a bumper-to-bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty and Carefree Maintenance Program. The warranty provides coverage for four years or 50,000-miles (whichever occurs first) and can be transferred to a subsequent owner throughout the remainder of its duration. The Carefree Maintenance Program provides scheduled maintenance services at one year or 10,000 miles (whichever occurs first) and two years or 20,000 miles (whichever occurs first) at no additional charge, and can be transferred to a subsequent owner throughout the remainder of its duration. Jetta models also receive complimentary coverage in the Volkswagen 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program for three years or 36,000 miles (whichever occurs first).
Competitive Set
Jetta: Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda3, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla
GLI: Honda Civic Si, Hyundai Elantra Sport, Subaru WRX