2003 Volkswagen Golf Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.61/5 Average
93 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

Pros:
  • Long list of standard features, high-quality cabin materials, utility of hatchback design, fuel-efficient TDI engine, fun to drive.
Cons:
  • More expensive than its peers, mediocre performance of base four-cylinder, some controls difficult to use.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 93.00
  • Excellent Vehicle - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    I bought this vehicle to replace my 1997 S10 and I couldnt be happier. The power is adequate, the mileage is excellent, and overall it seems to be one of the best vehicles I have owned.

  • 2003 VW Golf GL 2.0L - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    I bought a 2003 vw golf GL 2.0L with only 35,000 miles on it. I love this car. Its not a sports car by all means, but even with just the 2.0L it goes like a bat outta hell. I was iffy on buying another VW because my sister has a 02 jetta 1.8t and to my knowledge of people whom have owned that engine. They hate it, always in & out the shop (mostly transmission problems and just everything goes wrong in it). Hints why I bought a 2.0L. LOVE IT Theres always been VW in my family, dad had an old beetle, and a square back.

  • golfmania - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    I test drove the honda civic, mazda 6, and a couple of other predomanatly asian builtcars, and nothing against those companys but the vw blows all of them out of the water, cant compare that german engineering.

  • TDI LOng May It survuve - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    I tested 8 other cars, almost buying my fifth Mazda but the Protege was buzzy and the new 6, although most impressive, was larger than I prefer. I wanted better mileage and a better ride in small car and the VW had those qualities. I had owned a 1976 Rabbit which was fun to drive. This car, 1000 lbs heavier, is smoother and quieter. Only at cold temperatures or at a stoplight are you aware that its a diesel. The seats and most controls are first rate with good quality materials. It has excellent cruising ability, good Monsoon sound system and an easy to use sunroof.

  • amazing car - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    Wow this car is Amazing the ride is great and it is fast its faster then my old 97 mazda626 4 cylinder 5 speed and the fuek economy is amazing its better then on the honda hybrid and it wont need service until it gets to 200,000km

  • Buy one, youl love it! - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    This 2003 Golf TDI is without a doubt THE most fun car to drive of all the cars that Ive owned. (Actually, this is car #21). The diesel engine has tons of torque and really runs great matched with the manual transmission. The gears are smooth and shift even better than the Hondas Ive owned. This TDI has a nice little wheeze when the turbo is heard, but that is only when the windows are open. I love the moon roof and the Monsoon radio- the best stock radio in any vehicle Ive had. I like the visibility, too. The seats are very comfortable. I get a reliable 45 mpg, and I drive 80 mph. The maintenance has been super low and Ive done most of it myself. I would buy another TDI without a doubt.

  • Best Car Ive Owned - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    I love this car. In the past I owned a 95 Honda Accord and a 98 Jeep Cherokee. The Golf has been a lot more reliable than either of those. It has plenty of horsepower for me. I drive 64 miles round trip to and from work and it gets great gas mileage. Ill definitely go with another VW when it comes time to get a new car.

  • So glad I bought this car! - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    I love, love this car! It travels well, and provides great diesel mileage of course. I have had little problem with it. My only complaint is that it is designed so that a dealership has to do most of the basic maintenance.

  • VW Golf - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    This is my 4th VW and third Golf. They have always given goood service.

  • As good as it gets - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    Very practical. And a pleasure to drive.

Volkswagen Golf Reviews By Year:
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