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 201 through 210 of 566.00
  • Love my Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Fun is the operative word. What a pleasure to drive. The interior is a little cramped, but it handles like a sports car and does have room for four. No rattles or funny noises, but have experienced small nuisances such as burnt out tail light and windshield wipers that need adjustment too often. Decent gas mileage, but it uses premium fuel. Bottom line, Id buy it again - love the car!

  • Very Cool Black 03 - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Black with black interior and blacked out windows -- looks very cool. The base engine is plenty fast enough -- its a car I feel good about having my children drive. This is the 5th new VW Ive purchased -- all have been great cars. In buying the vehicles and having them serviced, the local dealer has always been excellent.

  • my thoughts - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Smooth alternative fuel vehicle.

  • Three Days and Really Surprised - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive only been driving my 03 Wolfsburg 5spd. for a few days, but I must say that I am pleasantly surprised with my initial impression of the car. The build quality is very tight, and the materials are of high quality. I was/am definitely nervous about Mexican build quality, but initially its great. The seats are fantastic, the engine performs strongly, its quiet, and the standard stereo sounds great. This is my first "European" car (Ive only purchased Japanese cars before), so Im definitely nervous about reliability. Hopefully, I will be lucky!

  • Very Happy with This Purchase, So Far - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car new in November, 2003. Huge incentive from VW so the car was a steal. Ive been thrilled with it so far. The build quality seems far superior to the Mazda, Matrix, Impreza, Focus. No comparison really. My sis-in-law owns an Audi A4 Wagon that is a spitting image -- same exact engine, same interior --except the Audi has trip computer, leather and 4wd. If you think leather, trip computer and 4WD equals $17,000, then go for the Audi. My car was half the price of hers!

  • great looks but no room - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have been driving this car for almost a year, its awesome on gas mileage/looks/performance...unfortunate ly not a car for a small family of 4. I cannot fit 2 child seats in the back without cramping both front passengers against the dashboard...had i known about this space limitation would have think twice before buying

  • A costly piece of junk - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Jetta has lot of mechanical problems. We bought ours(brand new) in march 2002.Since then it has been in the dealers workshop 7 times for repairs. The car did really well for the first 2000-2500 miles. After these initial miles it has given us all sort of problems. It started with door rattling, followed by the left view mirror cracking, followed by complete failure of the audio system 2 times in a row(within 10 days) . Yesterday the drivers side window fell into the door and wont go up. Guys, think twice before buying this car.

  • Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Excellent Vehicle. Car drives like a dream. The 1.8 Turbo engine sold itself. I had test drove one with the 2.0L 4-cyl and it was alright but the turbo makes it feel like a sports car! Also test drove BMW 325i and this car is far better.

  • Worst Car EVER! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had nothing but problems with this car! The water pump, pistons, cylinders, locks, windows, suspension, (and the list goes on) have gone OUT on me numerous times!! I go to the mechanic at least 2 times a year, and average spending $400-$500 each trip. I hear a constant LOUD rattling sound when I drive on the freeway, and hear loud squeaking noises when i go over speed bumps, and make wide turns, & no one can fix it! I WOULD NOT recommend this car!

  • 2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The 2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI is fun to drive and gets super fuel economy. It is also very comfortable. I love its smooth ride and tight handling.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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