For 2002, its final model year, the Volkswagen Cabrio received only a few minor upgrades, such as the addition of the Reflex Silver exterior color scheme, which was combined with a gray top and a matching gray interior. Other than that, the only other news was an improved four-year, 50,000-mile warranty (up from two years/24,000 miles) and a five-year, 60,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.

Other than that, the Cabrio was still available in three trim packages --- the entry-level GL, the mid-level GLS and the high-end GLX --- all powered by a 2.0-liter, 115-hp engine linked to a five-speed manual overdrive transmission. A four-speed automatic transmission was available as an option for all three packages.

Standard features for the GL package included air conditioning, power door locks, anti-lock brakes, a manually operated drop top, an AM/FM/cassette stereo system, daytime running lights, and front and side airbags. The GLS added power windows, cruise control, and heated seats, while the top-of-the-line GLX added a power convertible top, leather seats, foglights, and new 14-inch wheels.

For the most part, drivers were pleased with their Cabrios, which they thought were fun, sporty, economical, and easy to handle in all kinds of situations. But lingering quality issues plagued the car, according to some drivers, who also complained about high maintenance costs.