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 381 through 390 of 494.00
  • VW Jetta GLS TDI - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Outside of the falling window problem which VW has fixed/replaced I have had no problems with this car. I drive it like I stole it. I cruise at 80 on the interstate and am getting 42 mpg.

  • Get a Honda - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My 2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T has been in the shop numerous times, including for the ignition coils twice, and to have the heated mirrors replace three times. I also had the transmission replaced. The engine light has come on six times. This car is going away. Its time to by a Honda Accord.

  • Soooo cute but sooo stupid - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love the look of the jetta. Fun to Drive but at 40,000 miles my transmission went and took the computer with it. 3 trips to the mechanics fixed but it still does this clunk when accelerating. The interior has peeled, something up front rattles, airbag cover on passanger side shrank and fell off and you cannot charge your cell phone if you want to listen to the radio. The radio is all static until you pull the charger out.But they are so cute! But what happened to quality VW! Im not sure I would buy on again. I dont like the new ones anyway, they look like a nissan!

  • Great Car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive been really pleased with this car. I wanted econo, but my wife wanted all the bells and whistles, so we got all the features available and it is a very nice. Comfortable, fast enough (not a rocket ship, but pulls hills effortlessly), and nice things like heated seats and good sound system. I put 17" wheels on, and have an automatic, and get about 42 mpg. I love that. Have two small kids and with car seats it is pretty tight in back, but managable. Fate is dropping an 02 Mercedes in my lap, so I am selling, but otherwise I would consider this a great long term car.

  • Great Car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive really enjoyed this car. It is a manual 5 speed & fully loaded. I get an average of 45mpg & have never experienced less than 40mpg. Most of my driving is mixed city & express way. It failed to start one time when at home. The dealer picked it up & fixed it under warranty. If I remember correctly, it was the oxygen sensor. It is great on the highway. I had a 2000 model 2 liter gas model before this one & I found it to be louder on the road than my TDI.

  • Looks can be deceiving - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Read all the sites before you buy a jetta!! I know I made a mistake, dont let it be you. The car looked awesome. Got more than a few compliments on the road. It had more than adequate performance with a 200 v6 and 5 speed auto. Nice sounds from the stereo when it worked. Loved to cruise at very high speeds.

  • Over-engineered - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This vehicle has been in for repair work averaging every 8800 miles. Each time it is for something different (recalls, check engine light, power windows etc). The average driver should expect what is equivalent to about three extra car payments every other year once the warranty expires. My advice is to unload it before the warranty expires. VW refuses to stand by its vehicles. This is not directed at the dealership. It is directed at the manufacturers poor quality control and lack of integrity.

  • Dont Do It! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Worst purchase I have bought! 135K and here is the work I have done: O2 sensor Catalytic Converter Water Pump Timing Belt All bulbs Bumper Clips (3 Times) Hub caps (on going)

  • Cant Beat the Mialege - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Great car, fun to drive. On the first full tank I got an outstanding 33MPG/city. This car is easy to drive and very comfortable. I am 62" and have pleanty of leg/head room. It is quick and responsive with a touch of "frugal" (gas that is).

  • Dont Listen to the NaySayers - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    In all honesty, Im surprised. Being a Chevy fan all my life, we bought this car primarily for my wife and Im actually jealous. Like every other vehicle Ive owned, there are its problems but the dealer has satisfied our every repair and maintenance need and more. Vacuum lines went at 90k and our water pump just went out at 120k. We bought it with 68k. Ive done almost all the maintenance myself without difficulty. The engine is super strong for its size (zips past most vehicles on the freeway) and its just perfect for a small family like ours. Gas mileage can suffer if you like the gas pedal like me, but we still average 24 mpg. I still have a Chevy, but my next car will be a VW.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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