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 261 through 270 of 494.00
  • DO NOT BUY THIS CAR - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car was one of the worst purchases i have ever done. It worked for maybe 2k miles just fine then after that weekly now i have to fix something with this car and the value of this car is so low that even fixing the smallest thing on it could cost you more then the car is even worth. its not worth it do not buy this car because the number one thing that will i guarantee go out is the transmission just take a second to look around because i can promise you even if you bought this car brand new it still would go bad in a snap.

  • Solid Car, Fun to Drive - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Paid less than the TMV price on Edmunds.com. The car is *solid*, puts a grin on your face on corners and turns. No problems with anything so far. Quiet, sturdy, quality all around you. The built-in premium CD player sounds great. I just splurged on model-specific rubber floor mats from VWs Driver gear web site as well as the cup holder insert for the center arm-rest. Now I have nothing to complain about regarding that mis-placed cup holder above the CD player.

  • VW new motto: Suckers Wanted - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Had the car for a little over one, and already it has been in the shop four time for repair work. Electrical problems, window problems, total brake & rotor replacement at 19K, and sensor problems. Carseat fabric is the most horrible material known to humans. Make sure you get the upgraded stereo so you will not have to listen to all the sqeaks the car makes. Basically all the same headaches that everyone else on the site has been having. Spoken to many people who have the same feeling..as time goes on the car has more and more problems. Totally regret buying this car, high price and low quality.

  • New 200hp Jetta GLX - Bad News - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My 2002 Jetta V6 GLX with the 200hp engine has been nothing but trouble. The car is a month old, & already its been in the shop 8 days. 1st, the engine control module went. My svc mgr let slip that 500 other Jettas had the same problem. 2nd, the drivers side door didnt fit. It had to be reinstalled. 3rd, the car blew its coolant all over the garage floor. The svc dept found "nothing wrong". 4th, the car does not idle well. It races then dies. The svc dept has been unable to find the problem. The svc mgr is so fed up he is ready to call in an official VW rep, thus handing this problem car off on someone else. It is my opinion that this car is a lemon. Buyers beware.

  • Love to drive it! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I wantedÂ… no needed, the diesel engine to get the estimated 49mpg. So far, after 2500 miles, it has ranged from 45 to 49mpg. Another requirement I had was to not to sacrifice performance. This baby has quite enough pep to zip around and handles the curves and corners beautifully. The only sacrifice I feel I made was with the interior room, mainly the back seat leg room.

  • Buyers beware - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I fell in love with my Jetta until after 4000 the engine had to be replaced. I have received terrible customer service from VW and am working with the BBB to get my money back. It was a great car, I just got a lemon. Be careful.

  • WOW - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Two words: Holy Crap (in a good way) Engine and handling are amazing. Interior design is beautiful. Radio controls on steering wheel offsets cup holders. Worried about more room in back, get a Passat or tell rear passengers to walk and miss out on an unreal ride. Get sports Lux package with manual and you will not be sorry. not by a long shot.

  • jetta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Had suspension problems at 15,000 miles. Dealer fixed (under warranty!) Stated that it probably came off the line this way. good pick-up at high speeds. Go with stick shift. It is, after all, a VW!

  • Great fun and reliable - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Classic VW - fun to drive, great performance, good handling and safe. Always feel fun and in control at same time. Turbo really gets going once you learn to drive it.

  • Craptastic Car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought my VW in May of 2002. It was a great car for the summer, but once I moved up North the problems started. The doors squeak incessantly -- taken to the dealership 4 times, been told they were fixed each time, but still have a squeak. The only option they gave me was to tighten the doors, but then I would have to shut them harder, causing rattles down the road... Passenger side window fell into the door, followed by a giant (10") spring flying out from under the seat. The drivers side door handle is covered by some material that began peeling off the day I drove it off the lot. Im waiting to Lemon Law!!

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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