2002 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

More power, two new transmissions, and an available antiskid system highlight changes to Volkswagen's subcompact line for 2002. Jetta comes as a 4-dr sedan and wagon. Golf is a hatchback version of the Jetta and comes in 2- and 4-dr body styles. The base engine for both is a 2.0-liter, 115-hp 4 cyl. TDI models have a 1.9-liter, 90-hp turbodiesel. These two engines come with 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic. Jetta GLS 1.8T and Golf GTI models have a 1.8-liter turbo 4 cyl with 180 hp, vs. 150 last year. That engine is also found in the new Golf GTI 337, a limited-edition model that arrived midyear with 18-inch wheels and special interior and exterior trim. A 2.8-liter V6 started the '02 model year with 174 hp, and was used in the Golf GTI VR6, Jetta GLS VR6, and Jetta GLX. At midyear, the V6 got a boost to 200 hp, at which time a new Jetta GLI replaced the Jetta GLS VR6. The 1.8 turbo and 200-hp V6 are teamed with 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate; both transmissions are new to the Jetta/Golf line for '02 and replace a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic. All Jettas and Golfs have standard antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front torso side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Traction control is standard on all but GL and GLS models with the 2.0-liter engine. Models with the 200-hp VR6 also come with an antiskid system. An in-dash cassette/CD player becomes standard on all but GL models for '02. And VW's bumper-to-bumper warranty is now 4 years/50,000 mi. vs. 2/24,000. The powertrain warranty is 5/60,000 vs. 10/100,000.

COMPETITION

A perennial favorite, the Honda Civic, is as good as ever. We love the wide range of bodystyles, engines, and equipment. Civic is a solid car that has good performance, a nice ride, and a high degree of civility. We also love almost everything about the Ford Focus, but were reluctant to rank it a Best Buy because it was new from the ground up. After a year of living with a ZTS model, we can say that the reliability is good. Focus ranks a notch below Civic in some areas but costs less.

Topping the crowded Recommended list are the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta. They easily could be Best Buys. However, they are among the most expensive cars in this segment. Other Recommended choices include the no-frills Toyota Echo, the sporty Nissan Sentra, and the roomy Mazda Protege.