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 191 through 200 of 566.00
  • quick car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The car is definitely quick and still sporty. If you like soft suspension you wont get it here. The suspension is sporty even though the car looks like its about to go SUV. The car gets smoother as you drive on the highway. And the feel of the steering wheel and manual stick shift is so much better than any Japanese car Ive driven.

  • Driver Found! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love my Jetta. It runs good, it looks good and it feels good.

  • Just drive it. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    All you have to do is drive this car, seriously. I went from hell bent to owning a WRX to driving off the lot 20 min. after I sat behind the wheel. It balances perfectlly comfort and performance. Its almost uncanny how weel this car just does what you want it to.

  • Show me the gravel trap...... - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    1st day: cooln fan rattles, technician stuck his hand in it and have it stop. (What?) 6th day: noise at left front wheel, inspectn scheduled 2 wks later. 19th day: before inspectn, left front ball joint collasped, thanks God it didnt happened on hwy. (The reason I purchased this car was for its sport ability, but road handling was not there! I almost match the fate of Mr. Zinardi) Car towed to dealer, fixed same day. Dealer suspects someone sleepn at assembly line. Recd 1 monthly paymt from Volks for this incident. My 4th Volkswagon tells me 1 fact: Reliability declines after moving the assemble line to S. America.

  • ROCKET SPORT SEDAN - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    IF YOU ARE LOKING FOR A FAST,SPORTS SEDAN YOU SHOULD LOOK HERE.FEATURES TO RIVAL MORE EXPENSIVE VEHICLES.COMPARABLE TO A BMW 3 SERIS,AND LEXUS IS300 AT $10,000.00 LESS.LEATHER INTERIOR,200 HP,6 SPD TRANS,SUNROOF & TRACTION CONTROL OR ABOUT $25,000.BEST QUALITY IN ITS CLASS.

  • Amazed at Jetta TDI power & speed - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Had it for a week now. Was worried about the speed/power thing for a small engine. (I had a 4 cyl Ranger that couldnt keep up speed at top of Sunshine Skyway bridge). This TDI accelerates in 5th gear from 80 mph nearing the top of the bridge with no sign of slowing down! The dealer had Hondas so I checked them out- the 51 mpg one. I thought the plastic felt as cheap as my Subaru 76 DL which I loved at the time. The Honda sure wasnt worth a "MARKET ADJUSTMENT" the dealer put on all the Hondas. (What kind of nut would pay a market adjustment?) Anyhow, the Jetta TDI is built solid, runs like a roadster and is comfortable. I love it. Dave

  • Great car to own - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    great car at a great price. Our third Jetta !!!!

  • 2002 GLI - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Well, I bought my GLI to compliment my Turbo S beetle but it has been in the shop for seven days now. For some reason the GLI stalls out after starting and sometimes doesnt start at all. VW of North America is aware of the problem.

  • Big wheels, lotsa gear and even more fun - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had this car for a month and have over 5000 miles on it already. I traded in a 2001 Maxima SE with the 225HP V-6 and dont fell like I gave up much performance. This one is smoother, quieter and more fun then the Max was.

  • I Love This Car! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Very safe, very solid. Drives smooth allows you to switch to manual transmission on the fly. Zero to 60 in manual in mid 6 seconds at 5800 RPM. My neighbor with a 2001 stocked Corvette loves this car also.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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