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 41 through 50 of 588.00

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  oil sludge buildup - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By satisfied tm - June 6 - 1:00 pm

  I have only a few problems with this car. Currently have 24k miles. Ive heard from other Passat owners after 44k mi. "the sludge" can occur. VW sent out a letter about this problem. Use synthetic oil. The turbo produces excessive heat. Brake light switch replacement and MIL light which required a sensor replacement, are the only problems Ive encountered.

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  CV Boots and Axles - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Miami, Florida - June 4 - 10:26 am

  Three years old with 22,000 total miles. Vehicle driven less than 3 miles to work and back 5x a week. Personal use only. Overall, happy with styling and performance, features. Highway mpg is 30 plus with air on. Original Continental tires had to be replaced at 19,000 miles. CV boots outer and inner and both front axles replaced at 21,900 miles by dealer with free parts but we paid labor of $195.00. After 4 new tires, balance and wheel alignment at 19,000 miles, vehicle continues to pull right. Dealer says its normal. Rear brakes needed and done when boots/axles replaced. Rotors cant be turned because VW does not manufacture with enough tolerance to permit it.

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  VW - OK - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By vw convert - May 24 - 2:00 am

  This is my first VW after several Honda Accords. I have put 10k on it and am very impressed. No maintenance issues. The 4 cyl with turbo has plenty of power - drives more like a six cyl. Very stable at high speed. Mileage is good - 25ish around town, 32 on highway. It is slightly larger than my Honda, very comfortable even in back seat. I have owned for 6 months and would buy the exact same car again.

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  2003 GLX - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By vam - May 22 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive but Lots of road noise. Comfort is excellent. Bad Triptonic future

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  Great family sedan - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By ericba13 - May 10 - 2:00 am

  This is a very solid car. I have the AWD version, which is slow, even with the V6, but a great handler a very luxurious. That said, the AWD is an incredible safety feature in rain, snow, and around corners and it makes for a very safe car. (In fact, all of my cars will be AWD from now on). If you can sacrifice some power, this is the best midsize car on the market.

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  Solid and fun - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Jeff Ogden - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Great car. Looks great. Drives great. Handles like on rails. Dislikes: back seat is small and V6 is a bit light on the power, but not bad.

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  Nice car! - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Badoodie - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Overall I really like this car. A bit smaller than my previous Mazda but much more fun to drive. Nice leather interior. Most importantly, my mechanic and my car insurance guy both gave it very enthusiastic thumbs up!

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  2003 Volkswagen Passat - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By j wilson - March 30 - 6:37 am

  This car is a complete lemon. You fix one thing three things break. Repairs include 2 water pumps, vacuum system failure. Sludge in the motor. Very expensive parts. Turbocharger failure. Antenna broke. Seatbelt buckle broke which is hooked to airbag. Dont buy a Volkswagen. I have paid more in repairs than I paid for the car.

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  03 VW Passat GLX - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By A-Mac - March 28 - 2:00 am

  I have enjoyed my 03 Passat that I bought 4 months ago. There are some things that I would change about it, tho. It requires premium unleaded gasoline which can quickly add up over time. Plus, it really uses quite a bit of gas. The tires that came on it (Continental Conti-Touring) are really bad tires. They ride very rough. I cant wait until I have to buy a new set so I can get some Michelins. All in all, its a really great car and if youre considering this class of vehicle, you shouldnt buy without driving the Passat.

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  2003 Passat - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By tucson - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Ive enjoyed owning this car. Ive had it four months and it has performed perfectly. I look forward to using it every day. I enjoy the looks and style of it. It rides great, has a tight feel and seems to have quality workmanship and engineering. I recommend this car.