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 21 through 30 of 494.00
  • The Black Flash - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Very nippy, handles well - though should corner better with its wide rims & low-profile tires - a great fun wagon

  • Awesome Car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is by far one of the best cars that ive had the privelidge to drive. its got great pickup. and for all of you people out there that are wondering how much boost is in this car i just installed a autometer guage it shows 10psi which is great for stock. Awesome Car. Good job VW

  • Cruise missile - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Just got my GLI broken in , and this car is a cruise missile. I look forward to driving it everyday.

  • Great Car - Especially for Women - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My wife loves this car, and I have to say, it has really grown on me too. The interior is perfectly proportioned for a women, but is a little tight for larger men. Im 511" and 190 lbs, and its just large enough not to be a problem. The diesel mileage is great, and I love the heavy rumble of the engine. It has tons of torque. Aside from the size, the things to look out for are the front bumper partially popping off (you will learn how to pop it back on again) when you park too close to a curb in front. Also the seat adjustment is annoying. All that aside, this is a rock-solid reliable car with great fuel efficiency and a fun drive. I highly recommend it.

  • Get rid of this thing! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I actually have a 1999 Jetta GLS that I leased brand new. At first, it was a great car; fun to drive, reliable, and stylish. Now, I just want to get out of my lease as soon as possible. After a year, my drivers side window fell into the door. One month later, the passengers window fell in the door. Luckily Im dating a mechanic that could fix it for 1/2 the price of VW...they wanted over $300 each window! Then the glove compartment snapped, the parking brake knob popped off, the antenna stopped working, the O2 censor stopped working, and some other censor as well. Its aweful in the snow as well! Im very dissapointed in VW.

  • This car is Terrible - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    If you want an electrical Nightmare buy this car. It is a total piece of crap. I will never buy a foreign car again. I have never driven this car 60 days in a row. Dont waste your money.

  • Run away as fast as you can - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I completely concur with Paulie and Adam. Ive had the same problems both of them have described with varying degrees of success in remediation. * Spastic shifting * Spastic starting in cool weather * Alarm system malfunctions * Radio went dead * Door seals ruined after winter weather * Squeaky steering wheel * Squeaky front seats * Squeaky body panels in cargo area.

  • Who Needs a Hybrid? - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    While I was stationed in Spain I fell in love with turbo diesel cars. This was my first purchase upon coming back home! I average 35-49 mpg depending on the temperature and my driving style. The best economy is on the highway of course. The car handles excellently at all speeds and seems to really grab the road at approximately 80 mph. Mine came with really good Michelens wrapped around aluminum wheels and every interior feature you could imagine. Of course, it had the typical Euro accessory problems. One of the heated seats burned a hole in the fabric and a bracket in the power window failed. All of these issues were fixed under warranty. It must be dealer serviced to keep the warranty and you must use the right engine oil!

  • My Lemmon - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Transmission replaced at 800 miles, paint defect took three trips to the dealer. Sometimes it starts sometimes it doesnt. Customer service extreemly poor. I have owned the car for 2 1/2 months and it has been in the shop 30 days.

  • best vw ive owned - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    its fast, very comfortable and relatively economical to run. the new 4 yr. warranty is a plus. this is the 3rd jetta weve had in our family and its the best yet!

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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