2002 Volkswagen Jetta TDI review from North America

This Jetta has been flawless to date.

My previous Jetta (a year 2000) had the Mass Air Flow Sensor being replaced at 70,000 kms. They are expensive to replace. I have been told that with a minor adjustment made, the Mass Sensor for the older Jettas will work. It will save you approximately 80%

Had some minor problems with my 2000 - the cup holder, which is highly over engineered, broke as did the armrest mechanism and the glove compartment hinges.

It appears better quality components were used in my 2002.

Shop around for timing belt replacement. I have seen prices range from $ 250 - $ 800.

The TDI configuration is by far the best power train set up available in a vehicle. Period.

Anyone driving 20,000 kms (12,000 miles) or more a year will notice the savings in operating costs compared to a gas powered car.

Resale values are significantly higher than comparable gas units.

The car handles like a mountain goat in the winter and is excellent on the highway. Handles well and is built very well.

VW should have mated these cars with a five speed automatic or a six speed manual transmission as they tend to over rev at higher speeds as the engine can easily handle the torque requirements for the extra gear. I understand they have done this for 2004.