2002 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf: Road Test
2002 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf ▼
- MSRP: $15,050 - $26,825
- Invoice: $14,044 - $24,447
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Our road test for the 2002 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf help you decide if a 2002 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 6 | 3 | 5 | 3.7 |
Base 2.0 feels dull. Best overall choice is lively 1.8T engine, though turbo lag (delay in power delivery) annoys, particularly with automatic transmission. Test 1.8T Jetta with manual transmission clocked 7.9 sec 0-60 mph. Haven't tested 200-hp V6, but 174-hp version was strong and smooth. Test manual 174-hp GTI VR6 did 0-60 in a brisk 7.6 sec. Turbodiesel a fine cruiser with surprisingly good punch around town.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Test 174-hp V6s averaged 23.5 mpg with manual transmission, 18.6-21.6 with automatic. Test Golf 2.0/manual averaged 25 mpg, 180-hp Jetta 1.8T/manual 24.7. Golf TDI/manual averaged an outstanding 41.5 mpg. VW recommends premium fuel for the V6 and turbo gas 4 cyl.
RIDE QUALITY
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 4 | 4.1 |
Best overall in the subcompact class--with standard suspensions and tires. Firm but absorbent on V6 and 1.8T models; softer but controlled on others. Optional sport suspension in combination with 17-inch wheels and tires turns ride jittery on imperfect pavement. Try before you buy.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 4.9 |
All models are nimble and feel sporty. V6s and 1.8Ts handle best, though with more cornering lean than is ideal. Sport suspension and 17-inch wheels pay dividends with sharper steering response, terrific smooth-road grip. We have not yet tested a model with the antiskid system. Brakes provide short, stable emergency stops.
QUIETNESS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 3.6 |
One of the more-refined subcompacts. TDIs a bit gruff above 65 mph, but other engines sound nice and don't intrude much. Jettas isolate wind and tire noise better than Golf's hatchback body, but neither blocks out road roar from the optional 17-inch tires.
CONTROLS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Mostly clear and well-arranged, but low-mount audio and climate controls not always easy to adjust while driving. Lighted lock and window switches on doors an unexpected small-car nicety. Sophisticated cabin materials set the small-car standard.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.4 |
Above-average head and leg room even with sunroof. Firm, supportive seats with easy-to-use height adjusters. Standard tilt/telescope steering wheel also helps tailor a good basic driving stance. Easy outward vision except dead astern in Jettas.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 3.2 |
OK for two 6-footers, but not wide enough for three; leg room tight with front seats pushed back. Entry/exit a squeeze on 2-dr models, better but not super easy on 4 drs.
CARGO ROOM
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
Jetta's trunk is large for the class. Jetta wagon tops all subcompact wagons for cargo volume at 70.6 cu ft. Golfs are hatchback versatile. All models have split-folding rear seats and low load sills.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 4.7 |
These VWs are rather pricey for subcompacts, so they're not quite Best Buys. But any Jetta or Golf is strongly recommended for its Euro personality, safety features, build quality, and adroit design.
Total Score
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 58 | 58 | 56 | 56 | 44.2 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Compact Cars
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