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 341 through 350 of 494.00
  • 2000 Jetta TDI Love affair - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Jetta TDI is a marvelous car and gives great economy. We get 39 city and 42 highway. We dont "baby" it, but rather, drive is pretty hard. We have put 53,000 miles on it in 13 months of driving. Very happy with the ride quality and the solid feel of the car. Only 2 complaints!!! 1. Why so short an interval on the timing belt change? Calls for change at 40,000 miles (w/auto trans). I was not made aware of this requirement until after I bought the car, and was surprised at frequency and cost. 2. Front bumper too low. Dont park within 5 feet of the concrete stops or curbs. You will pull off the bumper cover every time!

  • Oil, Oil, Oil... - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This was the first NEW car I have bought. At my first manufacturer suggested oil change, I was surprised to be a quart and a half low. I fought with the dealership for 8,000 miles about the oil consumption on this car - which they claimed was normal for a VW because "the engine runs hot". At 13,000 miles, they finally gave in and rehoned the cylinders and replaced the pistons. But that still did not solve the problem. Ive just about given up my fight since the car has now been out of waranty for 30,000 miles. I have to replace a quart every 1,000 miles now, and my current mechanic says soon it will be a quart every 300-400 miles. Its so unfortunate because I like the car otherwise. Dont bother with VW.

  • Horrible Reliability - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car used from Osborne Automotive in Lakewood, CO. This is the worst car I have ever owned. The parts are all plastic, and I have pretty much replaced every part of the engine, including the water pumps. Once the car reached 120,000 miles, the transmission went out and I was quoted between $4,600 - $6,100 to replace it with a refurbished transmission. The car has just been sitting in my garage and I bought a Toyota Camry. Selling it for parts.

  • A car fun to drive and built to last - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car was purchased to handle the daily commute of 30 miles (each way) and has done so superbly for almost two years now. The diesel engine performs superbly and gets better mileage than almost any other car. The interior is well laid out and all the controls are easy to find and use. The build quality is solid and I have had no mechanical or cosmetic problems with the car so far. I fully intend to have this car for years to come.

  • The Jetta Rules! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This Car is the Best Car I have ever driven. It has the feel of a BMW at a way cheaper cost. The Design is sporty yet functional and the attention to detail that the Engineers at Volkswagen makes this car great. The added features such as the ability to roll the windows down with the turn of the key in the door shows that Volkswagen has thought of everything. All these features, not to mention the Flip Key that resemble the Mercedes keys make this car a must have. I give this Car a 10 out of 10

  • Never again... - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had this car for less than 2 months & have already had to put $1500 into it. Ive replaced a door sensor, trunk latch, numerous vacuum tubes, & windshield wiper motor. While driving 70 mph, the side mirror cap just decided to fly off too. Just got my catalytic converter replaced too. Thankfully, still under warranty (600 miles away from being too late though). Previously, I had a 92 Toyota Celica. In the 5 yrs I had it, I put about the same amt into it and most of it was maintenance. I will NEVER buy a VW again. Everyone I talk to with a VW agrees. TERRIBLE! Dont buy one unless youre ready to invest a lot of money into this car.

  • Cant go wrong with a TDI - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have been very impressed with this car. It gets incredible gas mileage and is a very solid build. It handles well, and all of the controls are easy to get to.

  • Great car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I like my new 2002 Jetta TDI (5 speed/Man)better every day. Just went over 11,000 miles with it. Except for the fact that radio stopped working one day, which the dealer fixed in 30 min, Ive had no problems at all. Started fine all winter even at -15 F. Gas mileage keeps getting better now Im averaging about 46 mpg. Does not smell, smoke or have any of the diesel problems that were common in the 80s. There is a terrific website for TDI owners that is very helpful.

  • worst car i ever had - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Despite all the great reviews, this car has problem after problem. First, heated seats started on fire--at dealership for over a week with no compensation from VW for burned jacket and pants.Interior cheap and falling apart. Constant engine trouble-now with only 70000 miles, the engine needs to be replaced. I have had all maintenance done on time and disgusted with this expensive, money draining piece of junk. DO NOT BUY

  • Great car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is Jetta #3. The I have had some major problems with the eletrical system with the first two Jettas I owned. I have heard they had improved with the eletrical system so I decided to buy a 2001 Jetta. I have been very happy with this car and I have not had any problems yet. The car is great on gas and its fun and comfortable to drive.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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