Hello, I am a proud owner of a new to me 2001 1.8 turbo jetta. I am a VW fan and just had my 2000 TDI totalled. I don't know much about the 1.8 but I like its power. I have read that the 2002 had a substantial power boost over the 2001 and was wondering how they did it. Is it a chip or what? Is it something that is a relatively easy mod or upgrade?

I also am looking for info on the radio. I have th monsoon that came with it and it sounds terrible. I know that it used to sound better and am looking for a stock replacement because I like the factory look OR a suggestion on a more modern one with installed pics that I could buy. I don't need the absolute best but I would like a nice one.

Last question from the noob: The cruise control doesn't even come on and the speedo seems a little off. Could this be related? I know I have to take it to the dealer for this but I am curious.

Thanks again. I will have about 10,000 more questions later.

vw upped boost to 180 hp for the GLI and gti models. Yours prob has the 150 hp one. If you have an adjustable camshaft timing connector on the motor which you probably do, you can chip it and blast well beyond the 200 hp mark. Non working cruise can be a million things. Brake switch, clutch switch, cruise switch, coding in the engine module to turn ON cruise.....etc.

Is this the only thing that is different is camshaft timing or is it also boost control also?

The combination of adjustable cam timing and different ecm programming for higher boost and other variables make for the higher HP. The 1.8T can handle high boost safely. You could max your turbo out and still be fine.