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 31 through 40 of 588.00

• 

  Love it! - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By r32752 - July 29 - 10:00 am

  I really love this car! It handles exceptionally well and is quick. The color selection was great and the vehicle is a winner in my book.

• 

  A Very Good Car - Update - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Mark-- Boston - July 27 - 6:30 pm

  Now > 4 years into ownership and at 108,000 miles, I thought Id update my review. I still like this car a lot. It remains reasonably reliable with only fair fuel economy ( although Ive been getting 24-25 MPG on the highway lately). Cost of maintenance has been relatively high, but I do drive a lot, so I feel it has been quite acceptable. Engine (V6) is running smooth and not burning oil. Im thinking of driving it until 200K or until the cost of repairs gets too high (Ive done the TB and WP at 85K). Im still overall satisfied with the car and service Ive been getting. Ive had two electrical problems. Fuel pump died at 60K (recall) and drivers seat heater died (expensive, but needed fix).

• 

  Worth It - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Happy - July 10 - 8:30 am

  Very solid ride and power when you need it. Handles great and gives you a true feel for the road. Highway driving is smooth and effortless. I am leasing but think I may actually buy this time!

• 

  Run away fast! - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By wolfman333 - July 6 - 10:00 am

  Sexy car inside and out. Drives nicely on the freeway. Mine has some really bad rattles that the dealership cant seem to fix and I may have to get an attorney to get VW to do anything about it. Climatronic is the most illogical and difficult to use heating/air conditioning system Ive ever encountered. If youre living in ignorant bliss buy this car. If real quality matters run away fast.

• 

  Excellent - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By katall - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Well worth the money (alot of it). Drives beautifully. Everything we were promised.

• 

  Not bad,but......... - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By cdks7of9 - June 21 - 2:00 am

  I love it. Great look, wonderful ride.

• 

  GLX Wagon - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By nuffsaid - June 21 - 2:00 am

  We were going to purchase another Volvo wagon but liked the Passat better. Handling, turning radius, fit and finish are superior. Just hope that it is as reliable as our Volvo. So far, having some electrical gremlins but nothing major. MPG could be better, especially using premium gas. I would recommend anyone buying a car to go to FightingChance.com and use the fax attack method. I got my car for $199 over invoice and it was a breeze.

• 

  Get it fixed right - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Robert in Alhambra - June 14 - 11:10 am

  First, I can not understand why there are so many parts within the wheel bearing. That aside, my car has been a very reliable car. After 120k miles, I have replaced all of the ignition coils, spark plugs, struts, and a few other items. The importance of a reliable mechanic can not be made enough. The dealerships work - all of it ever made - had to be redone. No kidding. After I started going to an honest mechanic, someone who told me about certain gas stations, rather than replacing something that didnt need fixing, life was better.

• 

  my vw - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By jean maria - June 11 - 10:00 am

  the car preformance is more then i thought it could be. this is my first new car and i am glad it is a vw. we bought ours after my sister got hers, after us my in-laws purchaced theirs and love it also.

• 

  Fun Car w/Flaws - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Moniquer - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Just finished first months lease on my new 2003 Passat and I must say I have mixed feelings regarding the car. Its a great driving car whos engine might be a might small for the transmission its mated to. The car has a rich European style interior with infinitely adjustable front seats providing superior comfort.