The Volkswagen Golf 3 also called the MK3 is known as a small family vehicle, the Volkswagen Golf’s third generation and the Volkswagen Golf Mk2’s successor. The car made its debut in the European market in August 1991. This car has stolen a number of car lovers’ hearts with its European design, compactness but powerful engines.

For this reason, Naijauto.com will give this car a high praise with our article of the Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 review. We hope that this article will be an encouragement for those who have a limited knowledge about this car and those who are Volkswagen Golf fans. 

The Volkswagen Golf 3 comes available with 3 versions including the estate, the GT and the convertible dubbed “Cabrio”. For Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 model particularly, the Cabrio variant was discontinued in 2002. Besides, the MK3 is also offered some special editions in the lineup including the 20th Anniversary GTI, European tour editions, Trek / K2 Editions, Wolfsburg Edition and the Harlequin version. 

Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 wagon

The Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 wagon is considered as one of the most favorite versions in the range as it comes with more convenience and suitability for families. The variant made its debut at the beginning of 1994 and went head to head with some strong rivals in its class like the Vauxhall/Opel Astra and the Ford Escort. 

Both the Volkswagen Golf 3 hatchbacks and the GTi coupe have a length of 164.9 inches overall. Compared to the Ford Focus hatchback and the Volkswagen Jetta sedan, the Golf is 3 inches and 7 inches shorter, respectively.

Both the Volkswagen Golf 3 hatchbacks and the GTi coupe have a length of 164.9 inches in overall

The design of both hatchback and coupe models are almost similar to the Jetta, except for the Jetta gets a regular trunk and a longer rear. Noticeably, the GTi version is armed with 16-inch alloy wheels, darkened taillights, fog lights and a sport suspension. Besides,  the turbocharged GTI 1.8T also comes optional with 17’’ tires.

The car design is blended with European heritage, attracting a number of young purchasers especially to go into showrooms of VW. 

The design of both hatchback and coupe models are almost similar to the Jetta, except for the Jetta gets a regular trunk and a longer rear

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VW Golf III GTI 2.0 best tuning

With a vertical design inside the Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 interior, it allows the occupants to sit more upright than in most small cars. Although the car offers 5 seats for people, its space is comfortable for just 4 adults. The cargo space measures 18 cubic feet but as folding the rear seatbacks, it can provide up to 41.8 cubic feet for loading luggage.

Although the car offers 5 seats for people, its space is comfortable with just 4 adults

The cargo can provide up to 41.8 cubic feet for loading luggage

All variants come equipped with a decent package of standard features, consisting of an engine immobiliser, central locking, CD sound, aircon, seat-belt pre-tensioners, anti-skid brakes and dual front airbags. 

The Volkswagen Golf GL and GLS are equipped with a standard 2.0 L 4-cylinder 115 hp engine. An option for 1.8 L 180 hp turbocharged engine is offered for the GTI 337 and the GTI 1.8T. Besides, the Golf GL and GLS can be also powered by a 1.9-L 90 hp direct-injection diesel mill while the GTI 2002 can be armed with a 2.8 L VR6 V-6 201 hp engine.

All engine versions work in a conjunction with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The GTI 1.8T gets a new 5-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic operation and a 6-speed manual transmission is mated to the 201-hp VR6 engine. The GTI 1.8 T propels from 0-60 mph in less than 7.7 seconds.

All engine versions work in a conjunction with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission

The Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 hatchback is enjoyable to drive. The car is a great choice for small families and couples. The diesel version of the Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 engine is evaluated to be good with an impressive fuel economy and quiet yet agile ride.

The GTI 1.8T is considered as the most outstanding models in the lineup as it comes with a fresh 180-hp engine and Tiptronic gearbox. This engine can bring more than fun while driving and its handling capability is so excellent. But pay attention to the 17’’ tires and sport suspension. Although the GTI 1.8T can perform impressively with comfort on smooth roads, occupants may experience some shaking or tossing on coarser roads.

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The Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 is enjoyable to drive in any body type

Please consult the table below for the fair market price of the  Volkswagen Golf :

The Volkswagen Golf has been one of the best-selling models in the European market and is still one of the iconic models to benchmark newer ones against. With all of the goodies it offers, we believe that the Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 will be a wise choice for all couples, the young and small families. Hope that our Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 review will inspire you to get a used Volkswagen Golf 3 2002 into your garage.

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