Overview & Reviews

The most affordable Volkswagen gets a few equipment changes for 2003. Probably the biggest of these is the availability of stability control (VW's ESP) on all trim levels. In other news, base GL models now include a CD player, cruise control and power windows and mirrors. GLS models now come with a sunroof and alloy wheels, while seat heaters and the premium Monsoon sound system will be optional across the line. Finally, VW has increased the padding on the side curtain airbag system; the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder now meets ULEV standards; and the standard stereo head unit will get backlighting for the buttons.

• Long list of standard features, high-quality cabin materials, utility of hatchback design, fuel-efficient TDI engine, fun to drive.

• More expensive than its peers, mediocre performance of base four-cylinder, some controls difficult to use.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 93 of 93.00

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  I should have bought one years ago! - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By boatdznr - February 9 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my 2003 4dr.Golf TDI automatic new, nearly a year ago.I now have 19K miles on it. The TDI has excellent power. We use it like an SUV. Half the time we are hauling kids, and the other half of the time we have the rear seats down and have it loaded with supplies. Im 61",it has legroom to spare. I drive this car hard, lots of stop/go, on/off, when on the freeway its always 80 mph. Even with this torture, I get a combined 31 mpg. The value of many cars more than twice the price.

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  TDi Rocks My Socks - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By THNDR-CK - January 31 - 10:56 am

  The cars not that pretty or that much fun to drive on a hot summer day compared to a BMW convertible, but it beats everything else as a daily driver/commuter. Ive gotten 750+ miles off of a single 12-gallon tank with a manual transmission (62.5 mpg). When driving in the city for the full tank, I still get over 50 mpg. Since the car is a diesel with gobs of torque, you dont have to downshift that often on hills, even when loaded with gear. There is lots of room in the car, enough for three friends, a dog, and camping gear.

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  Classic and cool - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By wxcruiser - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I often read that this car was pricy when comparing it to the competetors, Focus, MP5, Matrix, Vibe..... but in reality, its a great deal. VW puts so much on the Golf as standard, where the competion will sell a really stripped down model. Put all the features you would want onto the car, and the Golf is very competative, and more refined in my opinion. It drives great, feels classy, and with TDI gets great fuel economy, and lots of pep. Its unfortunate more US car makers do not yet have the diesel option, though that should change once we get the cleaner diesel in the states.