2002 Volkswagen Passat Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
In an effort to compete with other luxury carmakers, Volkswagen introduced the new Passat W8 trim package in 2002, which joined the GLS...
In an effort to compete with other luxury carmakers, Volkswagen introduced the new Passat W8 trim package in 2002, which joined the GLS entry-level and the GLX mid-range versions in the Passat lineup. And the W8 certainly roared out of the gate, with an all-new 4.0-liter 8-cylinder engine that pumped out an impressive 270 hp. Firmly establishing itself at the top of the Passat (and VW's) lineup, the W8 sedan and wagon came standard with a five-speed automatic transmission with the Tiptronic manual shift feature, a sunroof, leather seats (powered in the front), VW's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, Xenon headlights, and a stability control system, among other features. The interior leather and wood trim was also upgraded.
The rest of the Passat lineup remained essentially unchanged from the previous year, with the exception that VW increased its bumper-to-bumper warranty from two to four years, and added a few tweaks like a cruise control indicator light.
Other than that, standard features for the GLS trim package included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, anti-lock brakes, traction control, cruise control, front and side airbags for the driver and passenger, a keyless entry system, daytime running lights, and an anti-theft alarm system. The GLX package added a sunroof and leather seats, among other features.
The GLS was available with either a 1.8-liter, 170-hp 4-cylinder engine or a 2.8-liter, 190-hp V6. The GLX came only with the V6. A five-speed manual transmission was standard for both the GLS and the GLX packages, while a five-speed automatic was available as an option.
Drivers' love/hate relationships with the Passat continues. There's no doubt that drivers are attracted to the Passat's styling, standard features (many borrowed from Audi, which also is owned by VW), comfort, and power. And many drivers have reported little or no problems with their cars. But others have noted frequent, and expensive, trips to the repair shop. Perhaps VW's upgraded bumper-to-bumper warranty, introduced in 2002, will help ease some of the maintenance/cost issues.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2002 Volkswagen Passat appreciate its reliability, comfort, and performance, particularly enjoying the spacious and stylish interior, along with good handling and engine power. However, some drivers have concerns about maintenance challenges, the cost of repairs, and limited rear seat space for taller passengers."
Overall the car was a good value, had all the toys that a luxury car would have, but had the price tag of an economy car. Performance is solid, the Germans know how to tune a vehicle. Build quality is good, and the car is fun to drive. The best thing about the car is the styling because people always think its a brand new car even though it's an 02. Overall, it is a good choice for a car.
November 26, 2008nice, spacious interior, very responsive engine making the handling so good and not too technical (since most modern cars are) and moderate fuel comsumption for a V6 engine
April 15, 2008Didn't ever expect to find a sedan that was both fun to drive and extremely comfortable. The turbo engine, for it's size, is really quite amazing. The gas mileage is pretty par for the course for a 4 cylinder engine. There have been occasional problems with the overall quality of the automobile, but for the most part it has been pretty trouble free.
July 20, 2008What owners say
Overall the car was a good value, had all the toys that a luxury car would have, but had the price tag of an economy car. Performance is solid, the Germans know how to tune a vehicle. Build quality is good, and the car is fun to drive. The best thing about the car is the styling because people always think its a brand new car even though it's an 02. Overall, it is a good choice for a car.
November 26, 2008nice, spacious interior, very responsive engine making the handling so good and not too technical (since most modern cars are) and moderate fuel comsumption for a V6 engine
April 15, 2008Didn't ever expect to find a sedan that was both fun to drive and extremely comfortable. The turbo engine, for it's size, is really quite amazing. The gas mileage is pretty par for the course for a 4 cylinder engine. There have been occasional problems with the overall quality of the automobile, but for the most part it has been pretty trouble free.
July 20, 2008Car is very solid, has adequate power, handles like a charm
January 3, 2008I bought it used... so of course there were a few things that needed to be fixed. Overall though its great, handles, brakes, and accelerates like a dream. For most people the appearance would be beyond satisfactory, but as a teenager I look at it and always think about the things I wanna do to it. The interior is awesome, leather seats (very comfortable), wood accents, good quality stock sound system. Recommend to anyone that has a passion for nice cars.
June 21, 2008I purchased this car while I was in IRAQ and could not wait to drive it when I got back. when I got back I fell in love with the car. I got my windows tinted and call it my mid life crisis car! lol But I do enjoy driving it! I would recommend it to anyone
April 25, 2008VW are reliable and safe at all times. To me its a plus that the car looks damn good..
December 23, 2007I love the looks, reliability and handling of this car. It is also very economical but looks and drives like a million bucks. I can't wait to buy a newer version of the same model. I would recommend it to anyone. In fact, I'm trying to pass mine on to my sibling.
August 13, 2012The car itself is great. It has plenty of what you want in a family car and gives you plenty of options. I personally love its cargo capacity...it's one of the main reason why I bought this car. You really have to see it for yourself and get behind the wheel!
July 26, 2012Very reliable, comfortable to drive especially on long journeys. Climate control, 6disc cd player, heated seats & a big boot (LOL). Just a sexy car all round.
June 18, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $39,250 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.0L 270 hp W8 | Cargo Capacity 36.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $30,100 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.8L 190 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 39.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $32,125 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.8L 190 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $28,425 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.8L 190 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $29,300 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.8L 190 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $32,925 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.8L 190 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $27,625 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.8L 190 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $22,300 | Seating 5 |
Engine 1.8L 170 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 23 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $24,800 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.8L 190 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $23,100 | Seating 5 |
Engine 1.8L 170 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 39.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 23 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $25,600 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.8L 190 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 39.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $38,450 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.0L 270 hp W8 | Cargo Capacity 10.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain AWD |
