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 21 through 30 of 588.00-
Passion and fun. Something different. - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By surfsup - September 9 - 10:00 amWe did a lot of research on this vehicle. We looked at the Honda Accord and Audi A4. For the price and the quality, we couldnt beat the Passat. The last thing we wanted was a passionless and indistinctive car. We chose the Passat for its balance of price, quality, good looks and German engineering. Its just a fun car to be in!
-
We love our Passat - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By MIchael Marks - September 9 - 10:00 amWe bought a Reflex Silver Passat with gray leather interior and we love it. I shopped around and looked at the Accord, the Maxima, the Honda Pilot, the Toyota Camry and we just kept coming back to the Passat because it looked so good. We are very pleased so far with everything.
-
2003 GLX - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By kevin223 - September 9 - 10:00 amMy wife and I are extremely happy with this vehicle, although not with the dealer. Overall this car does get average gas mileage, it just has a small tank. This is the only complaint I have with this vehicle.
-
Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By Velvet - September 4 - 10:00 amExcellent mileage and easy to manuever in and out of small places. Good stability - Appears heavier than it actually is so it holds the road well. Comfortable to drive with 3 seat controls. Fanatastic Monsoon audio sound. Cold weather package includes heated washer tips and rear view mirror defrosters
-
Can the Car Last Five Years? - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By leibo52 - September 1 - 12:36 pmI was so happy with the car until June 2006 when the turbo went while driving, this just 1,000 miles after the 60,000 mile checkup at the dealership? Coincidence or engine design of the car? Does someone call and ask you how much do you love your car? Implying it is too costly to repair a car like this. Thank goodness I bought the extended warranty from outside (Continental) they covered most of the expenses except for full labor ($105+) here in NY they only cover up to $75 per hour the job took almost 10 days.
-
seriously fun and reliable - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By KH - August 26 - 2:00 am4 Motion, All wheel drive, W8: Overall, it was a great purchase for the price. It is by all means a luxury car. Our only complaint is that the check engine light has been on since the purchase (8 months) and two dealerships and three visits have yet to be able to find the issue, it there even is one. Please note that this car takes synthetic oil so you will pay more for regular changes. Also, it takes a person with higher than average mechanical skills to work on the car personally. So, even minor issues will usually have to be taken car of professionally (the engine is enclosed).
-
Do not buy a VW! - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By Sorry I bought - August 24 - 8:20 pmTwo words...oil sludge. All VWs of this engine type (and the V6 Ive heard) have several fundamental problems that VW is unwilling to address. Poorly engineered product. Go with a Japanese competitor.
-
A satisfied owner - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By Michael Silver - August 15 - 10:00 amMore power than most small 8 cylinders; standard equipment is better than most luxury cars. Ive own BMW, Mercedes, several Lexus cars, but this is the most fun car Ive ever had.
-
Love It!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By Chris Marino - August 15 - 10:00 amWasnt sure if I was going to like a 4 Cylinder after having a Loaded GLX VR6 for 7 Years, but I love it. The Tiptronic transmission is smoother and more responsive than the one in my wifes C Class Mercedes. All the extra space is awesome, especially with a new baby. The safety features are very comforting.4 Wheel, ABS, Traction Control,Electronic Stabilization/ Front, side and curtain airbags all for $23,000. The rear seatbelt locks and there are tether hooks on the backs of the seat and anchors underneath them, making car seat installation a breeze.
-
Avoid this car like the plague - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By nakie - August 13 - 2:50 pmThis is the most unreliable Ive ever owned. This model is total rubbish and should have had recalls on the engine and all the hoses attached. It is the ultimate in cheap manufacturing. I have replaced the transmission all hoses and connections below the engine(plastic fittings that all cracked) the dip stick holder(plastic) that came out in multiple pieces when checking the oil the engine that froze and died when the oil strainer became clogged with sludge( the red light came on telling me to stop but by the time I could get off the road the engine was starved of oil and had to be replaced
