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 211 through 220 of 566.00
  • Great Value with Tuning Capabilities - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I was surprised when I first test drove the new Jetta. I had been looking at many comparable new cars and once I drove the new Jetta, my mind was made up.

  • vw rocket - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    it is fun to drive and has very good handling for the money the car has a lot to offer need to drive it to see

  • Just a fun car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I had a 12V VR6 before this and after the test drive could not justify spending the extra $$$. The turbo has great pull and a lot more top end power then you would suspect. At 75mph you are only at 2800rpm so you are right in the middle of the power band. The manual transmission is very smooth and I was very happy with the clutch as well. I dont have a lot of miles yet so I cannot speak to reliability. Traded in the VR6 with 60,000 miles with no problems.

  • NO NOT BUY A VW JETTA DIESEL - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I thought getting 45 city, 55 HWY would save me a lot of money. I have 2 Jettas, 2001 & 2003, and they break down all the time. To replace a radiator fan is $550. It take 2.4-2.6 hours of labor + the fan is over $200. The car feeds the exhaust back into itself, which takes maintenance. Recently, log a lot of power, would only go 60mph, had to replace a air control sensor, $180+ new, just a 4 inch pipe with a sensor in it, parts are very high. If you pull up to close to a concrete parking bumper, it will go under the car and pull your bumper facing out. The oil dip stick going into a plastic pipe, designed to break after heating/cooling, $20, and when it breaks, the plastic could go engin

  • Disappointed 2nd time buyer - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Warning to all - do not park under any tree. Had to replace windshild at one week old after a hickor nut hit on the exposed edge of the glass. The edge is the most fragile part and VW needs to cover this edge. Hearing vibration noises from the dash at only two months. Very disappointed in this car. Thought I would be getting the same quality as the 88 Jetta I had bought new back then, but it is not there. The car looks good but the quality isnt backing up the looks. Need more leg room in front and back.

  • Cant afford to get rid of it. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My family of 5 has outgrown our Jetta TDI but every time we look at buying something bigger we cant afford to lose the Jetta. We bought this car when it was 2 yrs old with 55,000mi on it. We have since put 55,000 mi on it in less than 3 years. We love the exterior styling, we love everything about the interior except the cup holders, although the AC vents do keep your drinks cool forget doing anything with the radio. What we like best is that its just plain fun to drive. My wifes car is an 06 Pontiac G6 GT and its fun, but we still find ourselves fighting over driving the diesel. If you get a TDI make sure its a manual, the auto is a little sluggish off the line.

  • Great Car I am In Love - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Just bought my GLS 1.8t last night. Love the design and the features for the great price

  • Nice step up from my 92 GTi - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought the Jetta with every option available, except for the CD changer. The car rides great, has plenty of power and is very easy to upgrade. I had a chip installed to boost the stock 180 hp to 212 and added a cold air intake for another 5 hp. With the stock 180 hp the Jetta gets going pretty quick for such a heavy car, and with the upgrades it really boogies. Highly reliable and fun to drive, it gets an A+ in my book.

  • I hate my jetta! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    There is not enough room to write everything I hate about this car. I have had nothing but problems with this car from day 1. Ive had problems w/ the shifting, replaced a cracked tri-pod ball joint replaced the coolant system, and now I have to replace the timing belt and valves, not to mention all the other minor problems I have had too. The VW dealership is as terrible as their car. I would NEVER recommend a VW to anyone! I am now the irate owner of a very heavy/expensive paper weight. My VW Jetta is worthless. Worst car ever!

  • Great buy - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is my third Jetta and they just get better. Ive owned this vehicle for 3 years and have not had any problems whatsoever. It is great on gas. I get about 33 MPG in the city. I would continue to buy VW.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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