2002 Volkswagen Cabrio: Road Test
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2002 Volkswagen Cabrio ▼
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- MSRP: $19,600 -$23,175
- Invoice: $17,947 -$21,264
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Our road test for the 2002 Volkswagen Cabrio includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Volkswagen Cabrio from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Volkswagen Cabrio, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Volkswagen Cabrio help you decide if a 2002 Volkswagen Cabrio is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 5.7 |
Decently brisk takeoffs and passing ability with manual shift, but progress bogs with automatic transmission, especially up long, steep grades.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.1 |
A plus: about 25 mpg overall with either transmission in our tests.
RIDE QUALITY
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3.5 |
Soaks up most bumps well and tracks true, but a bit floaty over large crests or deep troughs taken quickly.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7.4 |
Sprightly, with firm, precise steering. Tight, twisty roads induce more body lean and nose-plowing than we like, but cornering always predictable. ABS brakes provide sure, short stops.
QUIETNESS
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.2 |
Refined for a ragtop. Tire noise and top-up wind rush moderate. Engine growls when working hard, but settles down to a tolerable hum at cruising pace.
CONTROLS
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
Mostly self-evident. Effective blue night lighting for gauges, red for other dashboard controls.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
Fine top-up head room, good leg space. Wide, comfortable seats have height adjusters. Steering wheel tilts. Top creates big blind spots when raised and lowers into a bulky stack that's hard to see over.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 1.5 |
Enough width for two only, and leg space all but vanishes with front seats pushed back. Entry/exit requires awkward ducking beneath the rigid structural roll bar.
CARGO ROOM
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 2.9 |
Meager, as in most ragtops. Standard folding back seat extends the load deck, but trunk opening too small except for medium suitcases.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5.2 |
Cabrio is fuel-efficient, fun to drive, well-equipped, and well-made. It is not inexpensive, but it is one of the few moderately priced convertibles with four usable seats. And resale values are strong.
Total Score
| GL, man. | GLX, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 47 | 45 | 45.5 |
Total Score: 46
Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars
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