GLI AUTOBAHN TRIM PUMPS UP THE OOMPH FACTOR IN 2025 VW JETTA!

By NITISH S. RELE – motoringflorida@gmail.com

There is the Jetta and then there is the GLI Autobahn Jetta, a performance-oriented trim that screams “Let’s go have some fun!” And it was this 2025 model that we recently tested, leaving us utterly astonished at its dexterity and solid grip.

It doesn’t come as a surprise that under the hood of this sport compact car sits a 2.-liter turbocharged inline-4-cylinder engine that belts out a healthy 228 horsepower @ 5000 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque @ 1700 rpm. It is mated to a seamless 7-speed auto gearbox. An independent strut-type front and a multilink rear suspension provides a delightfully lively trip while calmly absorbing bumps. Similar to a mechanical limited-slip differential, VW’s cross-differential system improves traction and reduces wheel spin, inspiring confidence in the driver at every turn. The variable-ratio electro-mechanical power steering is quick and communicative to result in a positive on-center response. Switch on the eco mode (besides comfort, sport, custom) and you are guaranteed substantial fuel savings.

Ensconced on the unitary structure of the revised front fascia of the compact sedan is a new lower/upper blacked-out honeycomb grille, a light bar that links the LEDs and a red accent stripe. Same goes for the rear with a comparable bar joining up the tail lamps. That this is a GLI is evident from badging on the grille, red painted calipers and red cabin accents. The 8-inch infotainment screen integrates wireless Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto as well as VW Car-Net. As always, readings on the driver information center between the rounded speedometer and tachometer gauges are large, eligible and perfectly located. Have tall folks in the family? No reason to worry. The power/heated driver’s seat is height adjustable. Go ahead and load up those suitcases and golf bags in the cavernous trunk, which flaunts 14.1 cubic feet of space. Chrome/piano black accents on the revamped dashboard are pleasing to the eye. Other standard amenities include dual auto a/c, 60/40-fold rear seat, perforated Vienna leather seats with red stitches, steering wheel paddle shifters, Beats Audio sound, wireless phone charger, black headliner, panoramic sun roof, push-button start and overhead sunglass holder.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and hydraulic brake assist, stability control, rearview camera, post-collision braking, three-point safety belts for all, daytime running lights and tire pressure monitoring system come at no extra cost. VW’s exclusive iQ Drive gets you blind-spot monitor, lane keep/assist, rear traffic alert, forward-collision warning and auto emergency brakes, adaptive cruise control, travel/emergency assists, which is essentially a semi-automated drive.

In production for over 40 years, the gas-sipping Jetta has always been an attractive proposition for small-car buyers due to its splendid blend of thrift, practicality and fun. A smoking jack rabbit of a ride, the GLI Autobahn ups the thrill factor triple over and more! 

JETTA GLI AUTOBAHN

Tires: 225/45R18

Wheelbase: 105.6 inches

Length: 186.9 inches

Width: 70.8 inches

Height: 57.3 inches

Weight: 3,311 pounds

Fuel capacity: 13.2 gallons

City: 25 mpg

Highway: 35 mpg

Base price: $32,715

Price as tested: $35,045

Web site: www.vw.com