2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL

If it seems like the VW Jetta has been around forever, well, that’s because it has—since 1979, to be precise. Cosmetically refreshed for 2025, it’s VW’s only remaining gasoline-powered sedan. It’s available in 4 trim levels, starting at about $22,000. We tested the top SEL trim. The Jetta is a handsome car, with a honeycomb grille, bold sheet-metal creases,, a low nose and slightly raised trunk, a spoiler, and (as is fashionable today) taillights that span the width of the trunk. Our test car came equipped with lots of desirable comfort and convenience features, including sharp-looking 18-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a 9-speaker Beats Audio sound system. With an MSRP of just $30,225, including delivery, that qualifies the Jetta as an excellent value. Although not as sporty (or pricey) as its performance-oriented Jetta GLI sibling, the standard Jetta is a refined compact sport sedan that redeems itself with responsive steering, decent handling, and a comfortable ride, making it a good everyday driver. Adding to the Jetta’s value is its high fuel efficiency: 33 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Negatives were few but potentially annoying. The 1.5-liter engine suffers from turbo lag; the infotainment system is overly complicated, has dated graphics, and is slow to operate; and the rearview camera’s image lacks sharpness.