Overview & Reviews

For 2003, a base GL sedan and wagon are available. Think of the GL as a GLS 1.8T for buyers who don't require any extras like alloy wheels, leather upholstery, seat heaters or a sunroof. Meanwhile, alloy wheels and sunroof are now standard on GLS models. The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system will not be offered on GLS V6 models, forcing interested buyers to cross the 30-grand line; however, VW has made stability control (ESP) optional on all Passats (except the W8, which has this standard). Also this year, you'll be able to get W8 sedans and wagons with a six-speed manual transmission and a sport package that includes a firmer suspension and the requisite 17-inch wheels. Lastly, the standard stereo head unit gets backlighting for the buttons.

• Fun to drive, excellent value in GL or GLS trim, roomy interior with upscale feel, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive.

User Reviews:

Showing 131 through 140 of 588.00

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  VOLKSWAGEN: No longer for the "VOLKS" - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By mcVT - August 11 - 9:16 pm

  After about five weeks, the transmission in my 2003 Volkswagen Passat failed (fortunately the warranty covered it, at no cost to us). Throughout the time that we have owned this car, we have had it in the shop for warranty issues more often than we like. There is always for some molding or other annoying piece that really has no business failing off. Despite the legendary quality of German engineering, little problems with this car have been getting to us, like the windows freeze shut at the slightest hint of ice and you cant open the rear hatch without unlocking it. It has been difficult as a family vehicle, particularly with two young kids and a dog. It is just too small for our family. Other than that, it has been a great car.

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  Best Buy!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By AO Schwarz - August 1 - 2:00 am

  Its only been a couple of weeks since I passed over the new 2003 Accord in favor of a 2003 1.8T Passat. So far, I have absolutely no regrets. Inital quality and performance are outstanding and its a joy to look at inside and out. The German look and "feel" are evident throughout this vehicle. The manufacturer recommends premium gas, which does seem to be necessary. Two tank fulls of mid-grade have provided a measureable difference in performance. Oh, well...its worth the extra few bucks in gas! FYI - My car is Fresco Green, which looks hideous on the VW website, but stellar in person.

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  I love driving this car - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By almica - July 27 - 2:00 am

  I have purchased my Passat a month ago, and I just cannot stop admiring all of its wonderful features. I got leather package, Monsoon surround sound system, EPS extras and, of course, manual transmission. The handling of the car is breath taking. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone who truly enjoys and appreciates driving a high quality vehicle.

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  Reliability - Long Term in Question. - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Chicago M - July 27 - 2:00 am

  Two topis of concern are the paint finish and the transmission. To start off,the paint has oxidized in some places and scratches too easily. The other more troubling area is the transmission which has just been replaced by VW. The question I have is this car a lemon or what else is going to go wrong. This car is too new for this kind of trouble to happen.

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  Such A Shame... - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By bobignacio - July 27 - 2:00 am

  Ride, comfort and interior is exceptional. Over the past year, however, weve had it in the shop several times...engine coils. An engine coil seems to go bad and the "Emissions" light will go on. We also had to have the drivers side seat belt replaced (it wouldnt release after button pressed). Now, there is a burnt rubber smell coming from under the hood and it is very noticeable when the heater is on...it is going back to the shop. We love this car soo much, however, the constant problems have persuaded us to replace it...Such a shame. Oh yeah...the Emissions light came on again today (1/28/03).

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  German Quality at a Bargain - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By ask - July 22 - 10:00 am

  Shotlisted the Honda Accord EX and the Passat 1.8T. The Passat was a hands down winner. The interior is well appointed. Good quality materials used. I got the luxury package and the leather seats are just great. Although the Honda has far greater horsepower, the Passat felt more solid on the drive and handling. Do not make your choice before driving this baby.

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  2003 vw passat gl turbo - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By AJMATTA - July 16 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive midsize sedan, confortably fits 4 or 5 adults. Great gas mileage, roomy interior, great looks and a lot less money than other in its class. The 1.8 turbo gives it great power, the high torque helps too. This is my 4th VW and recommend them everywhere I go.

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  reliability an issue - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By willis - July 16 - 10:00 am

  Has anyone else had problems with the radio, ignition coils and then the recall for the right tire well/gas tank "explosion risk"? It looks great - when it is not in the shop.

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  Best Car Ive Owned Yet. - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By tommymercury - June 27 - 2:00 am

  So far, my Passat has been a joy to drive. Its dimensions are perfect; not too small and not too big. Although for my 63" frame, I could use just a little more room. I have had few minor annoyances: sporadic buzzing in dash; creaking suspension noise when exiting the vehicle (I only weigh 180 lbs.); squeaky brakes. Ive had two of these problems checked out by the dealership, but was not fixed right by the dealership. The brakes still squeak and the suspension still creaks. Im not too concerned with the buzzing in the dash, since its muted by the stereo. What a great bargain for a German car. Thanks VW for a job well done!

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  My 2003 Passat - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By brueggemann - June 24 - 9:25 pm

  This is the 2nd 2003 Passt weve owned. My niece had a 2003 also and told me that they had to replace the motor once, and the turbo charger once, and recommended I dont get one. During the 2 years with our first Passat, we had it in the shop 6 times for engine lights. Finally they said it was caused by the turbo charger & wanted $4,300. We could afford the repair & traded it on another 2003 with lower mileage & extended warranty. Weve had the this second car for 3 years & the engine light has come on 9 different times. Sun roof opens on its own and the rear windows fall out of the tracks. The car is in the shop now for it 2nd new turbo booster and guess what? No more warranty. GRRRR