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 171 through 180 of 566.00
  • DO NOT BUY THIS VEHICLE. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Overpriced piece of crap. My experience has been a complete nightmare. Ive owned the car for 4 months & Ive driven it for less than 3 weeks. Its been in the shop the rest of the time. Weve filed with BBB & a lawsuit. Eventually they offered to buy the piece of crap back. The offer letter states that we are to pay for not only mileage but NEGATIVE EQUITY on a car that has been in the shop for 3 months. $4000. They think this is a fair deal? How can we buy a new vehicle that actually works if we have to give them another $4000? Too many problems to even name. Do Not Buy a Volkswagen. This is my second & theyve both been bad. Absolute horrible quality.

  • Wont buy another car until this one EXPLODES! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have owned this 2003 VW Jetta, since 2006, bought w/23788 miles. It now has 196483 miles, still on its original clutch, its fifth set of tires. The first set went via burning rubber on launches for the first 20k of my ownership. If any portion of this car has a problem it would be caused by my abuse. Ive only replaced the timing belt twice, and its still good as new. Interior is still as new except driver side entrance bolster. The engine has only gotten better and the transmission easier to shift. This car is miles of smiles for the dollar, and should be tops on your list. 31 mpg on long drives, 25-27.3 in town avg. Keep tire pressures all around at 4 lbs under max, for best handling!

  • Hands Down best base model car! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I looked at many base model cars, and for $16,000 dollars you cannot get a vehicle with the Jettas build quality and accessories. This car comes with on the base model 4 wheel disc brakes, 6 air bags, awesome cd sound system power downs/locks, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, adjustable forward/height driver and front passenger seats, and a inclimate weather steering system. Best car ever for the price.

  • Same again - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Nice car. Good head and leg room. Quiet. Dont even ask me to put a muffler on steroids on it.

  • The Peoples car could be les pedestrian - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    the car is well made, but there are a lot of little things that annoy me about it... the rear tweeters keep rattling, the windows fall into the door..broken glove box, peeling interior and the worst part of all is the lousy service departments. The service department alone is enough to not want to buy this car. Sadly with all the things that go wrong there is no avoiding it.

  • Jetta Wolfsburg - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    A great drivers car:)

  • Nice, Very Nice - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Hi have a 2003 Blue Lagoon 1.8T, its a fabulous car. I would recommend spending extra for the sports package-- 17" wheels and firmer suspension. Con: My only concern is long dealership service waits, and the Jetta has no back seat room at all, however if you ever sit back there it is very comfortable.

  • Needed at least one review for diesel - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Looked through some of the reviews and noticed not one for a diesel and everyone main complaint being MPG. Well just wanted to state that the TDI Wagon for my family has reliably gets 35-38 mpg depending how one drives on the highway and has had no major problems for 225k miles. Only things replaced was 2 alternators, original died and its replacement died while under warranty and had to clean the carbon out once so far out of the engine. everything about driving is like the gasoline that everyone has talked about.

  • 250k Mile Review - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Original owner of a great commuter car. Have had no major problems mechanically. Still get 44 mpg overall with 80/20 hwy/city. Ride and drive a re still surprisingly good despite having 250,000 miles. Bought the car to be able to haul cargo and get good gas mileage after using a 1/2 ton truck. Still on original clutch, brakes, transmission, etc. Very impressed with the car overall and would not hesitate to buy again when this one dies.

  • GERMAN!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is a great fuel efficient vehicle.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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