2003 Volkswagen Jetta Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.42/5 Average
566 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Volkswagen eliminates the GLX trim level for wagons -- this means that those who prefer the VR6 engine to the 1.8T engine will have to stick with the sedan. As a consolation, GLS wagons equipped with the 1.8T are eligible for a premium package, which bundles traditional GLX content like power seats, automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, wood interior trim and a trip computer. Additionally, VW has made the 1.8T available on both the GL sedan and wagon. GLs now have power windows and mirrors, cruise control and a CD player, while the GLS gets a standard sunroof and alloy wheels. All Jettas are available with stability control (ESP), heated seats and the Monsoon sound system. Other changes include a ULEV rating for the 2.0-liter four-cylinder, redesigned cupholders and backlit buttons on the standard stereo head unit.

Pros:
  • Powerful 1.8T and VR6 engines, fuel-efficient TDI powerplant, fun to drive, comfortable ride, rich interior materials, loads of standard features, solid build quality.
Cons:
  • More expensive than most small sedans and wagons, tight rear-seat legroom.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 100 of 566.00
  • Keep looking for your dream car... - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Well... the car is great, aside for some broken parts (ie: drivers side door did not seal properly twice, air bag light came on three times, battery died three times in the first three months I had my new car and the ignition coils needs replacing) but other than that and comparable service the car is a delight to have. The extras (heated seats, heated rearview mirrors) are nice, although nothing compares to reliable service and quality worksmanship.

  • Dont buy it! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I regret buying my my 2002 1.8T Jetta. Within 3 months the engine went down, not once but twice. They claimed to have fixed the problem at the first time, but a week after, the engine went down again. It was the coils that they said caused the problem but they didn’t replace all of them the first time even though they knew they were not right for the car. Another problem - Just a few days ago, my A/C was broken. Since all the dealerships are so busying fixing other more serious problems like engine and falling-apart windows, they wont have time for my A/C problem until after this summer is over.

  • so far its run and been fun! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had my GLI approximately 3 months now. What a fun car to drive ! I love the 6 speed manual transmission, it has get up and go. The interior is very nice, the stereo system is great, loads of trunk space.

  • Holy Turbo Batman! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I just purchased this vehicle, so I cant address the issues of durability. I can tell you that that if you drive this car you will buy it. It took me all of 50ft of a test drive to say "Ill Take it" . I was not expecting so much power from the 1.8 T engine. Man, is this car fun to drive, manual trans is very smooth and easy to master. Many safty features not available on any of the competitors.

  • Hate It! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I wanted a Jetta for about 10 years and finally purchased one in 2003. I did this despite all the bad reviews and advice of others. Im sorry to say that the car has been nothing but problems. Not only did I have to take it in numerous times to get it repaired under warranty, since the warrantys expired, I have sunk thousands into this car. I owned a used car that was 14 years old and only had to get a major repair done once. You name the part, its been repaired in the Jetta: catalytic converter, cv joint, air conditioning, windows, radio, seat, armrest, swaybush, etc. I will never buy a VW again. They will try and say "this years model is better" but its not. Dont do it.

  • TDI Jetta Wagon - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I LOVE my TDI wagon! It is zippy and gets 50 mpg. I have never had a mechanical problem with it. We use biodiesel fuel and reduce our emissions considerably, making it an environmentally sound choice. I feel very safe driving it with the extra airbags and safety features. Would buy it again in an instant and intend to keep it for years to come.

  • fun fun fun - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    this car is great to drive and the turbo has no lag i have found yet

  • fun fun fun - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    this car is great to drive and the turbo has no lag i have found yet

  • 2003 Jetta great drive. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I looked around for a car and found a dream of a car 2003 Jetta. I test drove the car before it was preped and it still had all the plastic inside and out. My wife drives the Jetta most of the time and loves it. We had a 1990 Accord and we dont miss it at all. The Jetta has a lot of power and handles great. Its best for 4 people but will fit 5. The sound system fits the car and sound good. Very happy with all it over all. A happy VW owner John E

  • Jetta GLI 2003 - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The best car I have ever owned. Fun to drive. More than enough power, hard to drive the speed limit.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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