2003 Volkswagen Passat Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.38/5 Average
588 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

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

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 588.00
  • Just shy of a Perfect 10 - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    This is my 2nd Passat. Opted for the V-6 this time around. Just like the first, this car is quiet, comfortable, fun to drive, and a joy on the highway. I can barely hear the V-6 unless Im hammering the accelerator, but the gas mileage did suffer by about 4-5 mpg over the 4 cyl Turbo. I would probably get the 4 cyl if I could do it all over again...the 4- turbo is very peppy, except for the slight hesitation on takeoff. Controls are well placed and well lit at night - the blue & red dashboard lights are great. Between the build quality and overall features - it feels like Im riding in a much more expensive vehicle.

  • Performance baby - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I got my passat and fell in love. Its the 1.8t and it is nice. I was very happy with the performance of it but... it needed to be faster. So I took it to a specailest and had it worked on. 1,500 doller later my car is a beast. with air induction kit,diverter valve, front mont intercooler, chip, and exahust. My passat is fast enuff to easily keep up if not beat a V8, like the BMW 745i. This car is great if you modify it.

  • 2003 Passat - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    This car has pizazz! The comfort and style of this model rivals most luxury cars for a modest price. The car is full of saftey features that are not installed on other vehicles so you feel safe transporting your children. Bottom line........safe, reliable and FUN!!!!!!

  • Be forewarned - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    If you are reading this you are probably thinking about purchasing a used Passat. If you do, chances are good you will regret it. I owned one for 4 years and never got any satisfaction, and got a lot of mediocre to poor service from VW. My Passat had brake issues. First replaced at 10k (all), then 17k (rear) 25k (rear) 29k (front) and when I ditched it at 33k, the rear needed replacing again, VW said was normal. I had a hesitation problem which I pointed out to them from 7000 miles, and every other time that I brought it in, they could never replicate the problem, but it was dangerous- not normal turbo lag. Lots of other issues and little satisfaction. Look up engine sludge issues on internet.

  • Very Satisfied !!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I never thought I would be driving VW. Have always been a Ford man. After driving an Expedition, which I enjoyed, I fell in love with the AWD. But I really wanted the comfort and smoothness of a car plus I wanted the car loaded. I figured I would have to go back to the Taurus and have to settle for front wheel drive. Well I found the Passat GLX. A fully loaded vehicle, AWD, comfort, plus about the same price of a very basic Expedition and just a little more than a fully loaded Taurus but what I felt was a better built vehicle. I love the Passat.

  • Love to drive!!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    The car has been awesome!! People are impressed by the stylish interior, comfort & good looks. Highway driving is smooth. Cant even tell how fast you are going (sometimes a problem!!) Would recommend highly....

  • What a car... - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    With almost 40000 trouble-free miles the Passat is the best car I have ever owned. My next VW will be the 8th VW for me, keep up the good work....

  • Passat Lover - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I am really happy with this car. Ive had Toyota,Honda, Chevy, and Ford. Ive also driven countless cars. This is a great buy if your looking for a sporty family sedan with good traction and steering.

  • Volkswagen Passat - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    the best car ever made!!!

  • Charlie - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Love the car. Bad points include, transmission(automatic- dowmnshift seems to shutter.) Not smooth coming to a stop. Gas peddel is akward to my driving position. I have to change foot position from start to cruise position.

Volkswagen Passat Reviews By Year:
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