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 131 through 140 of 494.00
  • my jetta has some problems - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love my black jetta GLS but there are some problems that the dealer will not fix. For example, there are buzzing noises coming from the windows or speakers and various places inside the car. It is a beautiful car and after 13,000 miles I havent had too many problems but the dealership still cant figure out those buzzing noises.

  • The Jetta is Impressive - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Were overjoyed.Who needs an SUV or minivan?Think Europe,people!The backseat is ample for our kids and the adults are more than comfortable up front.So far no mechanical trouble whatsoever, except one bizarre electrical thing where the stereo wont power-up with the engine.Happened twice.Briefly disconnecting the battery takes care of it.Otherwise, our expectations have been met if not exceeded in every way with this car.I might more seriously consider the turbo next time.Our standard isnt the peppiest thing on the road(although having the maual tranny helps)but man does it feel solid,responsive and well-built in every way.

  • Looks Great------But Quality Problems - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car for the warranty, its good looks and standard side airbags. Thank goodness for the longer warranty. I dont have to worry about the next thing that is going to break (something always is). Volkswagen has been great about repairing all the deficiencies and towing to dealer. It is just a pain to take the time to get things fixed. The transmission went kaput at 30,000 miles, alternator replaced, driver window broken, dash lights out, plastic interior parts broken. For the money, I think there are better alternatives out there.

  • Jetta 1.8t / tiptronic & Sport pkg. - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    For the money, the 1.8t, with the sport package and 17" wheels is exceptional. It offers plenty of performance and comfort for the relatively low price point. The small displacement offers good milage and a sense of environmental responsibility while the Turbocharger gives the car some real kick.

  • Too Many Problems - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I want to love this car - but too many problems are making me crazy!!! Air bag light has come on three times before the car was even a year old. Oxygen sensor was recalled - something i didnt have to pay for to fix. MAF sensor needed to be replaced (25,000 miles) - sunroof broke - and just recently my window fell off the track and fell into the door!!!! It seems like everytime i fix something - something else breaks!!! There is no need for a car this expensive to have so many problems.

  • Very Fun Car!!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I travel quite a bit, which requires me to rent cars. I have to say that everytime that I come home, the Jetta is like a new toy that I opened at Xmas. It is SOOO fun, fast, and SWEET looking. The only problem that I see is slight interior design problems and potential quality problems. At 2,000 miles I had an air conditioner compressor replaced, and now the clutch feels a little spongy and the gear shifter is rough going into first. Reading other customers complaints Im a little skeptical of the build quality, so well see!

  • good fun car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The Jetta is a good, fun, reliable (mostly) car. No major problems exept cosmetic (glove box door broke? how?, passenger side window fell in once, and the turn signals stopped working). This is all very minor compared to the problems in my previous american made cars. Good gas mileage, very sporty and fast for what it cost.

  • Great car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is my 3rd Jetta. This is the first one I bought with the sports pkg and leather pkg. It is a MUST have. THe car is so good looking and fun to drive. Very fast! Howeever if I didnt have the 17" wheels and leather inside, it would not be nearly as fun to drive. This is the best car I have ever owned.

  • Zoom - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive only had my Jetta for a week, but boy have i had a blast. I wanted a sports sedan but couldnt really afford an Audi or a BMW. The GLX VR6 Jetta turned out to be exactly what I was looking for. The VR6 engine is more than powerful enough for me to get my kicks, and with the GLX trim line, I feel like Im sitting in a $30,000+ car.

  • Lion of the concrete Jungle - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love my car to RAS!!! VWs especially the VR6 (jetta/golf) go down well with people who love and care for them and not recommended for car neglects. Treat them well and they will go down in history with you. I will never drive anything else than a VW (6cyl) or an Audi. The good thing about them is you can really supe them up nice and steady. They are great @ curves and i will always recommend the shift stick (6spd) to transmission.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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