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 1 through 10 of 494.00
  • gli 2002 - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    awsome car, great fun. The gli sit well on the road and is great fun. I need to drive my car more.

  • Pretty cool car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have this car for only a few months now, but i got to drive it for about 13000 miles already. This car has a nice interior that fits two adults very well but not so good in leg room in the back seat. The engine is really powerfull and with the manual transmission its even more fun to drive. Ive had a few problems with it so far but nothing big.

  • FUN TO DRIVE WHEN ITS NOT IN THE SHOP - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought my 2002 Jetta used with only 32000 miles on it. A week after my purchase the brake lights didnt work...which was a recall so I took it to the dealer. Two months after owning the car my temperature sensor went out. A month after that my triptonic steering needed to be replaced which was about a 900 dollar fix. A few months after that I had to have the carbon cleaned out of my car another 800 dollars. This car is so fun to drive it is a shame it is so unreliable. The turbo was a lot of fun for a young driver like myself. I loved the car but it didnt love me back. I now am happy with my Toyota xB.

  • Problem Child - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought my nightmare in 1/99 went the new jettas first came out. Ive had nothing of problems since. The car burns oil. I took a trip from Cleveland to Flordia and back. When I returned I checked my dip stick and it was bone dry. My air sensor has gone bad three times now. I cant understand why VW has such beautiful design, but the build quality is terrible. I think the quality issue is a result of the vehicle being built in Mexico. If you want a VW get the passat. ITS BUILT IN GERMANY.

  • DISAPPOINTED-Poor Quality VW - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have one of the VW lemons. Since 2002 car has been towed 7 times for 7 different mechanical problems. I am frustrated. I wrote to VW with copies of all receipts, NO RESPONSE. I guess they already have my money, so they could care less. Good Luck on your legal action. I wish I had the money, but with my monthly car payment for this lemon, I am broke. And carless at the moment, since it was towed once again. A brand new car, especially a VW should not have these problems.

  • Best Mid Size Auto - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    On the highway this baby gets close to 50 mgs and has plendy of power and zip I love the firm spension and the many safety equipments (6 air bags) etc and the clean operation for a diesel. I hope the US automakers will copy VW and build quality economic cars.

  • So Far So Good.... - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Car handles well, and the 1.8T is quick. Interior is well laid out. Monsoon radio is overrated. Overall a solid performer

  • Another oil-burner - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    We loved our Jetta from the first day we purchased it. We couldnt believe all the features you got for the money. We got it fully loaded with heated leather seats and all. Little did we know that after not even 2 years and 35000 miles that it would start burning up to a quart of oil per 1000 miles. We did a little research only to learn that the 2.0 L engine is known for this. In fact, at 45000 miles we called the dealer for an engine service light and told them about the oil. The service person stated, "yeah, volkswagen 2.0 L engines are notorious for burning oil." She said that she had one and her husband had to check it every 1000 miles.

  • This car is horrible!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Buyer beware! I leased a Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T, and had NOTHING but problems. I didnt even keep the car for the full three year lease because I had it in for repairs 25 times and I just couldnt take it anymore! If you buy this car youre asking for trouble.

  • Jettas ROCK! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    After my first car i was painstakingly looking for another car that would last and yet look good. The Jetta was the best bet! i love the way it runs and the inside and outside of the vehicle. i love my car!

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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