4 Star Reviews for 2002 Volkswagen Jetta

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 11 through 20 of 494.00
  • 2002 GLI VR6 - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Bought this car practically new from a private party. It had only 28300 miles on it and was in excellent condition. The car was loaded having 17" rims with Michelin high performance tires along with sunroof, premium sound, smoked tail lights, etc. the car is amazing to drive with the sports suspension. Has excellent handling and good performance from the 200hp v6 engine. Im a very happy man.

  • Very Satisfied - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had my Jetta for 7 months now (8k miles and its been a total pleasure to drive and own. The 2.0L engine is fine for everyday driving, but when you really want to get on it, it lacks the top-end power youd need. Material quality is excellent, seats are comfortable, gas mileage is great. Just the known VW bugs, ie: window regulators, squeaks and rattles, and minor oil consumption. No worries though, I plan on keeping this car for a long time.

  • gas gauge - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had every part of the the fuel system replaced. the gas gauge moves from full to the 3/4 mark after only driving 20 miles. I never know how much gas I actually have. I am currently trying to get rid of it. My fourth VW I guess I was do for a lemon.

  • Happy not Thrilled - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had my variant for 38,940 miles now. Only 2 problems, the window regulator broke and my battery died. Both of which the dealer replaced under warranty. The gas mileage is not up to what was advertised on the sticker. I did look at other compact wagons before signing on the dotted line. The Mazda P5 was down on power and the WRX wouldnt hold my golf clubs in the boot with out intruding into the back seat. Each of which you cant throw a baseball and not hit one of them on the street. For the money it was a fine purchase. I did opt for the dealer extended warranty, so Im good up to 100,000 miles. If I did have a family I would have spent the extra grand or so on the Passat Wagon.

  • FUN WHEN IT RUNS - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    MY GLI HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR 5 WEEKS. I WAS BLESSED WITH THE YEAR THAT HAS IGNITION COILS THAT FAIL ON YOU. I AM TOTALLY DIAPPOINTED IN THE VW RELIABILITY. WHEN I GET THE CAR BACK I MOST LIKELY WILL TRADE IT IN FOR SOMETHING RELIABLE.(NOT VW)PARTS AND REPAIR SHOULD NOT TAKE MONTHS TO COMPLETE.YET THEY EXPECT TO GET THEIR PAYMENT ....NOT

  • Not bad, but could be better - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car because I knew it would lower my insurance and gas bills (coming from SUV) I drive 500 miles a week and my gas bill is $60/month. I have enjoyed my VW a lot, however...Dont park over a parking space bump or curb. I did this 3 separate times (and have finally learned from my mistakes) and it pulled my front bumper off. Just the other day, my passenger side window fell into the wondow pocket and I had to take it to the dealer b/c of a downpour coming. "This happens a lot" the VW rep said. They rigged it, but I have to go back and pay for them to fix it now that I am out of my 25,000 mile warranty.

  • Are you Kidding - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this from a Lady in Kansas over the internet and she drove it to me in Colorado, delivered in pretty much perfect shape. I have over a million miles on it now and I am pretty much shocked by the other owners reviews. It was built in Mexico and has had the usual faults like electric window problems and seat heaters but that was all covered in the warranty and replace with no hassle at the dealers. On the last days of my warranty I had them replace the Turbo as easy as if it was a light bulb. Since then I have done most the work on it myself. A lot cheaper than mechanics will do. Replaced the thermostat for 15$ in thirty minutes. $200 plus at most shops.

  • NICE CAR - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I HAVENT HAD ANY ISSUES WITH MY JETTA. I DONT USE THE CUP HOLDERS OR THE BACK SEAT (ALTHOUGH THEY HAVE ISSUES) THE SEATS ARE HARD TO CLEAN. I PLAY MY MONSOON PRETTY LOUD SO I HAVENT HAD THE SOUND ISSUES (FINGERS CROSSED)

  • Little Red Fun Car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I really love driving this car. My previous Honda Accord Coupe was a nice car, but the Jetta blows it away in terms of sheer driving smiles. I enjoy the Tiptronic transmission, because I can put it in D when Im feeling lazy, or I can row my own when I want a little sport. I must warn people that the velour seats will trap EVERY PIECE of pet hair and lint. If you can afford it, get the leather! My always-cold wife says the seat heaters will save our marriage.

  • Just cant get enough. :) - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is a more of a testimony than a review, but I would like to share anyway. The previous car I owned was the first new car I had ever purchased. When shopping, my goal was to find a fuel efficient vehicle that I could afford. So 115 horses and no frills was perfect for what I needed. In six years, your over all needs and wants from a car can all change. Now I was looking for a ride that had some zip, looked classy, was comfortable, affordable, safe, and just fun to drive. The Jetta GLS 1.8T met all these. I have only owned it for six months, but these last six months have been the most enjoyable hours on the road in my life.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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