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 51 through 60 of 588.00-
NEVER BUY A VOLKSWAGEN - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By ckbell - July 17 - 2:00 amWith the promise of gas mileage of 20 city and 28 hwy, it was a sensible car to buy. Unfortunately I am getting between 13-14 mpg since I bought it. I do not sit in traffic or have unusual circumstances that would cause such a problem. Our Ford Explorer gets better gas mileage - unbelievable. I have pleaded with both the dealership and the VW Corporation to fix my car or replace it with another one but they will not do anything to help me. They actually told me that the lemon law would not protect me because gas mileage is only an "estimate", not a guarantee. I will NEVER own a Volkswagen of any kind again.
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Looks can be deceptive - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By Rich Boyde - July 17 - 2:00 amfun to drive..but just enough problems to keep you occupied for a few days per month.Most of the good reviews on this forum are by people who just bought a new VW car. All the bad reviews are by people who have used it for more than 6months/8000miles. Too many electrical faults, horrible Monsoon sterio, ignition coil problems,inefficient wiper system,trip computer has a mind of its own,works once in a while. Windshield allows too much glare from vahicles coming in the opposite direction.So please dont drive VW in rain or foggy conditions,take a cab. This is a car which brings to the mind the proverb...All that glitters is not gold
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Not Impressed - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By Greg - June 24 - 11:03 pmMy Passat got looks...but Ive had a series of problems with it, including a broken pin in the power window, a recall for the fuel pump, and heated seats. The trunk latch failed after 50,000 miles. The chrome trim is falling off the gear shift. The drip pan fell off while driving. The engine is leaking oil. It is fast and fun, but I got a speeding ticket on the interstate...so whats the point of having a turbo?
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Do not buy Volkswagons - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By MichelleM - May 29 - 10:00 amMy experience with my new 2002 VW Passat has been very, very disappointing! Over the 18 months that I have owned the car, I have had to bring the vehicle in for service 7 times for repeated problems, including faulty ignition coils, electrical systems failures and mass air flow system replacements. I have maintained the car, as recommended by the dealership (e.g. maintenance every 5,000 miles) however, have had nothing but problems!. I would not recommend purchasing the VW Passat to anyone. If you are thinking about purchasing a VW Passat and have any questions about my experience, please feel free to email me before you make your decision.
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IT DOESN"T RUN - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
By Patrick - January 26 - 2:00 amWe bought this car after researching on this site and others. We have a little over 5,000 miles on our Passat and it has been in the shop 4 times for igntion coil failures. This results in not being able to drive the car. The last time the tow truck driver stated he had towed over 100 of these one with only 23 miles for this problem. We have had some other minor issues. VW has left us with bottom of the line Toyota as a loner with no date on when we will get our car back as they have not parts to fix it.
