2002 Volkswagen Jetta Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.97/5 Average
494 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2002, the turbocharged four-cylinder engine receives 30 extra horsepower for a total of 180, which you can couple to a five-speed automatic with Tiptronic -- the 1.8T is now available for both sedans and wagons. In the spring of 2002, the Jetta GLX sedan's optional 12-valve 174-hp VR6 is replaced by a new 24-valve unit providing 200 ponies. A six-speed manual gearbox and the aforementioned five-speed automanual become available with the new VR6. Later on, the GLI sedan will appear -- it includes the new VR6, the six-speed and stability control without all the expensive GLX trimmings and replaces the manual-shift GLX. Other changes include the availability of the 1.9-liter turbodiesel engine for GL and GLS wagons. The base GL trim level is new to the wagon in 2002 -- previously, you had to step right up to the GLS model. A CD player is now standard on all GLS and GLX models, and all-new Volkswagen vehicles come with an improved four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, up from two years/24,000 miles. Volkswagen also offers a fully transferable limited powertrain warranty that covers five years or 60,000 miles. An on/off switch for auto-dimming rearview mirrors, a cruise control indicator light, a trunk escape handle for sedans and a new exterior color (Reflex Silver replaces Silver Arrow) complete the changes.

Pros:
  • Powerful 1.8T and VR6 engines, fuel-efficient TDI powerplant, fun to drive, comfortable ride, rich interior materials, loads of standard features, solid build quality.
Cons:
  • More expensive than most small sedans and wagons.

User Reviews:

Showing 121 through 130 of 494.00
  • I Love My Jetta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I to have had my windows fall in and my radio stop working, but it was covered under warranty and quickly fixed. I cannot complain about my Jetta, besides the few cosmetic failures, it runs great and is a fun car. The turbo is great to have, it gives the car some pep. I have owned 5 cars in the last 3 years and this is definitely the best.

  • I love it..but a little small - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had my (2nd) jetta for over a year and put on a ton of miles. It is very fun to drive, Ive had no problems and my dealership is fabulous to work with. I just wish it was a little bigger for leg room in back seat. Hard to take passengers.

  • 2002 Jetta 1.8T - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    If it makes you feel better I have a wagon. This car would be a great car if all the parts could be shipped next day from Germany. Good luck with your transmission. You can start thinking about replacing it at 60,000 miles. The tiptronic switch is easy to replace if youre a mechanical geek but if not it will cost you around $500.00 to fix. This is not the kind car you buy parts from your local part store. Be ready to get dirty and learn how your car works or pay a hefty price at the shop and Im just talking about your regular maintenance. If you can afford the upkeep of an Audi then go for it because thats what youre buying anyway.

  • Good solid comfortable car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have owned my GLS for 6 weeks and have to say that it has been the best car I have ever owned. It has had no problems. The mileage is slightly better than the 1994 Jetta that it replaced averaging 25 MPG in the city with the 2.0L and 5 speed. The Monsoon sound system sounds great and the functions are straight forward. I only have 2 complaints, the placement of the cup holders that block the radio controls and the dimmer switch for the high beams. It is too easy to push it back when using the turn signals. I looked for quite awhile before buying a car and found this to be the best driving, most fun car for anywhere near the price.

  • Cant Wait Until my Lease is up! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had a lot of problems with my 2002 Volkswagen Jetta, including the fact that it burns 1 quart of oil every 1,000 miles and the manufacturer says thats within specs. I had an issue where the cruise control was broken and the alarm would go off in the middle of the night. I would unlock the car so the alarm wouldnt go off again, but the car would lock itself and then proceed to alarm again. There was an instance where the passengers side door wouldnt open from the inside. The radio broke and had to be replaced and evidently it wasnt installed correctly to begin with. Shall I go on? I HATE this car! The only cool thing about it is the purple dashboard lights.

  • 43 MPG! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is my first VW. I chose the Jetta because of the optional 1.9L TDI Diesel powerplant. I commute 70 miles daily and I was looking for a way to save some cash. I got what I expected. My previous car drank 89 octane fuel and at best got 26 mpg. Im not spending any more on diesel fuel and the savings are there. Despite its 90hp rating the Jetta is a kick to drive. The turbocharger delivers when you step on the "gas".

  • Allow for lots of trips to dealer.. - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Before I bought this car I had a Toyota Camry that I bought new. It was 4 years old when I purchased this VW and I never had to take it to the dealership once. I didnt even change the oil and I never had the slightest problem. Since I bought the VW I am at the dealership nearly monthly for one thing or another. Its way too much hassle and inexcusable to have so many problems on such a new car. I will say my husband bought a VW GTI the same day I bought my Jetta that he loves and hasnt had nearly as many problems as I have (but still has had problems). We also bought a 2003 Jetta for our babysitter in 2003 and she hasnt had nearly as many problems as I have, but still more than she should.

  • Great little German car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Plushy interior is the feature to beat compare to other sedans with similar performance. The engine is the best thing about the Jetta and the large trunk space is not compromise with the 4 doors and the back seat. Tiptronic is also a fun feature if an automatic is a must for you or your family. Its a good looking car with some class, and can be taken to the max with no worries of break down.

  • Note to self...LEMON LAW!!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Within the first 11 months, I had the car in for unscheduled service 9 times! First the tires were wearing prematurely and needed alignment. The mechanics (Springfield Auto Outlet in PA) told me it was my fault! I had to replace the tires after 25k miles! Then the ignition coils went...again and again and again. The window regulators have gone multiple times. The interior rattles. Arm rest broke. My signal lights are constantly burning out. My temp light goes on for no reason. The car stalls frequently after starting it up. Thank goodness there is a 50k warranty. I got VW of America to credit me one car payment for all my troubles...thanks for nothing!

  • jetta GLS 1.8T (terrific!) - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought a new 02 Jetta GLS 1.8T (galactic blue) w/luxury package and cold weather package. I love it! Very fun to drive, comfortable ride, great fuel economy, nice sound system.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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