2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLS review from North America

The radio fuse blew after three weeks.

The gas flap cover would not close and lock.

A vibration buzzing noise above the center vents.

The problems first encountered have all been rectified by the dealership. It took three attempts to correct the noise in the dash, but was finally solved. The dash assembly was removed, and all possible contact points between materials were re-insulated.

This is one amazingly fast car. With the torque kicking in at 1,950 rpm, it gives you a launch like no other in it's class, or classes above. Even at good highway speeds, a little step to the gas gives another very positive pull on the car.

The suspension and tires are a very decent middle of the road compromise for most drivers. In retrospect, I think I may have enjoyed the sport suspension. This can still be accomplished at the dealership, at a quoted price that struck me as very reasonable.

Braking is good, but I've heard there are performance rotors and pads out there for my Jetta.

The tiptronic is something I've toyed with, but I feel it is slow to shift in this mode. A very useful tool however in poor driving conditions, as you can down shift more effectively for engine braking.

When I did my market research on this car, it suggested that I might have some minor problems that I would never experience in the Toyota's I've been driving. I was however, looking for more of a driving experience that I had heard Volkswagen was delivering. Mission accomplished, when trading up for the Jetta. I actually enjoy driving again.

Wish there was 4motion available here like there is in Europe.