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 41 through 50 of 93.00

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  Golf Fun, even after Audi A4 - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By Bob E. - May 20 - 10:00 am

  After owning an Audi A4, I am surprisingly happy with the Golf. The handling, quietness and comfort are very close to the A4. I was disappointed at first with the fuel mileage, but after slowing down to 65 MPH on the highway, I actually got 40 MPG. My only complaint is that 5th gear revs too high. At 65 MPH, Im at 3200 RPM.

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  Love it. - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By Ebcourmoon - May 14 - 2:00 am

  Peppy, and responsive. Stylish, and convenient. Fun to drive, cant say enough good things about this car. The dealership where I bought this car is great also. I recommend this cat to everyone.

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  TDI-best kept secret of VW! - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By HT - April 19 - 2:00 am

  No wonder the Europeans are all excited about Turbo Direct Injection (TDI)diesels. This is the only car in US w/this technology. Drove a Merc diesel in 80s-bad experience-slow, noisy. This Golf TDI is a revelation. Enough power for regular driving, even enough acceleration and handling for fun-yet gets 50 mpg and is quiet as a gasoline car. This is the anti-SUV!

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  VWGOLF GL 2003 - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By Apache1969 - April 8 - 10:00 am

  This is our third VW and our second Golf dating back to 1997. We loved our 1997 K2. It performed very well and saved us a lot of money on owning and operating costs. We have a 1999 Cabrio GLX that has been great and just bought a 2003 Golf GL. We didnt think they could improve on a great product, but they did. We expect years of economical, fun service out of this golf as well. We consider it a best bet for all around utility, comfort, economy and reliability.

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  Just Great! - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By Nizefski - February 24 - 10:00 am

  Reliable, Excellent fuel economy.

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  another VW purchase - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By nicole and jason - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I love VWs! I have only owned Volkswagens. I recently purchased a brand new 2003 Golf GLS and I am having a wonderful time. It drives smooth, its reliable, and its sporty. Chaplins dealership provided EXCELLENT service. Carter did not!

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  151,000 miles and still going - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By Mary - February 1 - 6:34 am

  My Golf TDI is going on 14 years-old. I bought it brand new and wouldnt part with it for anything. I have followed the owners Manuel as directed, changed the timing belt just under 100,00 miles as suggested even though there was no problem. Changed the oil faithfully, and addressed all other regular issues as advised via the owners manual. I have kept seat covers on it and the original cloth seats look like new. The other day a stranger rang my doorbell and offered me $6,000 for it....Im like no way. I hope I will never have to part with my little Golf buddy after 14 years I still Love driving it.

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  Excellent Car!! - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By frogpond - November 5 - 2:00 am

  So my 2002 Jetta Wagon did not work out (in shop 11x in 1st yr). This replacement car is amazing. Fun to drive, fantastic mileage, great features, fun , fun, fun (want to drive all the time)!! Hopefully second time around is better.

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  Value and Enjoyment - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By Bartleby - September 12 - 10:00 am

  I test drove the Matrix, Protege and Protege5 and never really considered VW as a possibility. I was always more of the Japanese type. However, the second I pulled that thing out of the lot my world changed. Its got quite the pick up for 115hp and 120 torque. But I have to agree that the cupholders do block the stereo controls, but I do like how they are tucked away.

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  Pure Driving Pleasure - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By countrygirl - August 9 - 10:00 am

  We love our Golf. It handles like a dream. We took ours for a vacation to visit our son in South Carolina. We took the scenic route and went through the mountains. It went up the mountains without a hint of hesitation and you want to talk about economy...it didnt even cost us $50 to go over 1400 miles. There is plenty of room for packing a double tent along with suitcases. I would certainly recommend this car to anyone.