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 201 through 210 of 494.00
  • Great Car! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car after owning 3 Accords in a row I was a little leery considering some of the reliability stories you hear of VW. This car has been great, even with the 2.0 4cyl it is fun to drive, the mileage exceeds their claim. The exterior styling isnt for everyone, but I like it. The Monsoon stereo is great. I have had no mech or elec problems. The only issues are that the air vents seem to get damaged easily and the seat cloth holds lint like mad. The cup holders are a pain, but I think thats a German thing as even BMWs have subpar holders. Just be sure to use a closed top lid unless you want to spend a weekend cleaning coffee out of the stereo like I did from the prev owner.

  • STAY AWAY!!!!!!!!!!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had my 02 Jetta for almost a year now, and its given me nothing but trouble. I went from driving a 2003 Chevy Trailblazer to the Jetta to try and save on gas, BIG mistake. This Jetta has been back to the deal for repairs at least 8 times in last than a year. All before the car turned 100K the Clutch went out, fuel relays, oil seals, timing belt, to just to name a few issues. Not worth the time or money to buy one of these POS. Do some research and read many reviews about these cars. They are great on gas, but you will spend more money in the long run trying to keep the car on the road!!! Cheaply made and poor craftsmanship!!

  • Great deal for around $20,000 - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    To anyone whos thinking of buying an Audi A4 or BMW 325, you gotta try the Jetta. My VR6 has more torque and displacement thant the 325, is fully loaded with features, and costs about $10,000 less. Other than for status, I dont see why anyone would pass up the Jetta. This car is fun to drive and the VR6 has a lot of kick

  • Another SUPERIOR German product!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought my 18th VW 2200 miles ago and I couldnt be happier. Its the GLI with 204 hp and a buttery smooth 6 speed tranny makes it feels like a Balistic Missile!!

  • Worst car ever! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I owned this car for a total of 4 months with nothing but problems from day one! I had the super-duper bumper to bumper extended warranty that still didnt fix any of the problems that the dealership said it had. It spent more time in the dealership being repaired than it did in my driveway. DO NOT BUY THIS CAR! Volkswagen really messed up with this car.

  • Fun Car with a lot of speed - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought my 2002 VW Jetta VR6 GLX in late 2005 right before the new models started to hit the dealerships. I knew I was paying more for a VW and this model has all the extras that reflected the price. The Pick-up for a small sedan without aftermarket enhancements has to be one of the best. The fuel economy is not great, but it is a V6 so that is expected. I have done minimal maintenance and the car is still running great. I wish there was Mp3 capability with the car, but I guess since it is a 2002 that was not an option. It would be great if they made the Jetta in an AWD model!

  • Beautiful machine! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Great German engineering! Great ride and solid feel, good with Tiptronic. Only problem is a bad door seal, no big deal. With leather and spt. luxury, its a dream! Wonderful acceleration. This car stands alone- the Civics and Altimas cant touch it.

  • toy car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    As I read other bad reviews, it is plainly clear to see that this car, The VW Jetta, is poorly constructed. Plastic things in the interior break constantly. The gears (Automatic) downshift as I go downhill, so I am awaiting the transmission to blow up or begin leaking. My passenger window just yesterday "finally" fell into the door, like others I have read about. I leased the car, and in January I am supposed to either buy it outright, or turn it in. Cant wait for how much they want to charge me for their piece of junk to turn in. I would not reccomend the Jetta. Was fun at first. Had to fix and then finally replace the stereo. Have read about others with problems with it

  • Great car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is a great small car loaded with standard features that others list as options. Solid, responsive and fun to drive.

  • If it werent for the engine . . . - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I am so disappointed in my Jetta except for the bit of "pep" that the engine exhibits. The whole car rattles and the passenger side front window hums and coughs. The upholstery is dismal. No vacuum or lint brush known to man can keep the seats from looking other than disgusting. All of the literature (incl. the sales brochure) and websites reflected a CD player as standard with the GLS model, but in the end, it was not included. I should have just replaced the Honda Accord I had with another.

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