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 251 through 260 of 494.00
  • Dont Buy VW Jetta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought Jetta 02, August 2007. I spent lot money in repair, in 9 months cost me lot. Lot of electric problems, and interior falling apart. In 9 months the car been in the shop more than 6 times, never fixed. Dont buy it. Thanks

  • Traded in....what a relief! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I loved my Jetta VR6. When purchased I made sure it had all the bells and whistles...I was in love. It didnt take long for it to start letting me down.. AC went out- Heated seats went out- water pump went out- windows rattled until a piece finally broke. Last week I was told the transmission was leaking which was the culprit of the engine light coming on over and over. In a nutshell I loved this car. It was so much fun to drive and design was great... I was forced in to parting with it because mechanically it began giving way far too early. I had regular maintenance and it didnt help prevent problems. I would never buy another Jetta or any VW for that matter. Gone back to Honda, like home!

  • Best car ever - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love my car. Its powerful, fun, and efficient. It has 230k miles and I still love it. Only had the timing chain replaced and the glow plugs replaced and its still running strong. About 40 mpg going 80 mph on the highway.

  • Near perfect VEEDUB! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    When I bought my Jetta I was surprised when I hound out it only had 115 hp! It wasnt really fast but did keep up with V6 Accords. This car is near perfect with a few exceptions: it needs more power, needs more legroom both front and back, and to restyle the seat back tilt(use something else than a wheel all the way back) I think its givin me carpal tunnel syndrome. Otherwise this vehicle is more fun to drive than my Passat.

  • dysteria - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car with the 6 cylinder and the 5 speed is a blast to drive. It really goes from a stop and all the way through the rpm curve. I was also very impressed with the handling, it handled like an expensive german car (ie BMW). The quality was also outstanding.

  • Very happy - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Weve bought a VW Jetta 1.8 T stick shaft over a year back and are extremely satisfied with the performance. Its a lot of fun...!

  • Very happy - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Weve bought a VW Jetta 1.8 T stick shaft over a year back and are extremely satisfied with the performance. Its a lot of fun...!

  • Jetta = Fun - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is the fourth VW Jetta that I have owned but the first for the new body style. I Love it! This is a fun car to drive.

  • Dont Buy a VW JEtta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had this lemon for 16 months, and it has been repaired 8 times for non- routine items. Break booster, transmission control, transmission control, transmission control, window clips, air conditioning, air conditioning, and ignition coils. AND, it still bucks between gears (this is a TURBO). Dealership told me its fine; VW service rep told me its fine; people riding in my car say "Whats wrong with your car?" Ive heard from many people with similar Jetta horror stories. Go with the new Accords or Altimas, trust me! This car is a lemon & I am being forced to pursue legal remedies, which will cost me time, energy, and money.

  • I should have listened to my instinct!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I got this car thinking I would give VW a chance in hopes that they had come a long way. I knew that VW/Audi didnt have the best consumer reports for reliability, but I felt if I found one that was care for w/ low miles, I would be fine. I was wrong. In the short time I have had it, I had to replace the ignition coils, a hose, the emobilizer shut my car down from moving (when all I had was a dead battery), and now finally, the timing belt just skipped a notch and blew the head and bent valves!! You wanna know how much the repairs are? Oh about $3000-4000. That is no joke. I am so mad I ever got this car. I warn you now, dont make the mistake I did. email if you have more questions.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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