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 311 through 320 of 566.00
  • A great value for the Volkswagen Buyer - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The Jetta GLS 1.8T Jetta is a great buy for this market segment. The BMW 325i was only other option based on size, performance, and features. After two years and 40,000 miles, Ive had 180 hp, 30 mpg, and only 3 warranty repairs. Ive been on multiple 700+ mile trips with no problems. Its fast, fun, and the insurance isnt bad for a turbo car. A host of performance upgrades and customized parts are available as well. With the same powerplant as the Audi TT you can be assured this engine has the performance and German engineering one could need. Look for a model with a 5-speed transmission, leather interior, and the Sport Pkg. if your in the market for one!

  • Bargain A4 - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I owned a 2001 GTI 1.8T and unwisely traded it in for a Honda Accord EXV6 Coupe. I will never leave the VW group again. My Jetta has power to spare and handles like a dream. I love the interior and the Monsoon stereo is amazing. I drove the Mazda 6s, Nissan Altima 3.5SE and an Audi A4 1.8T and the Jetta was better to drive than all, and built like the A4. My only issue has been a door rattle. Remember...when you buy a Jetta you get a smaller $22k Audi A4. When you spend $26k for a 3.5SE Altima you get a $16k. It shows. One last thing...The Turbo is more fun and has a much more flexible engine...save your cash and skip the V6.

  • IS THIS FUN OR WHAT? - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Had my new TDI for about 3 weeks now & I love it. One of my neighbors told me what a beautiful new car I had, which isnt something often said about VW. It looks and drives like a car twice the price and the gas mileage cant be beat. My only problem with it is keeping it under 80mph it is so effortless on the highway and has so much zip around town too. What a car!!

  • Jetta TDI - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The TDI Jetta I purchased is real tight and trouble free in the early going. Fuel mileage on my first highway trip was 52 MPG.

  • My favorite car! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Im actually leasing this car and I plan to buy it when the lease is up. I took over the lease from someone else and I am very pleased with my decision. I always wanted a fast car but never wanted to be too flashy. I feel like this car is perfect for me. Its nice 17" rims, tinted windows, and a spoiler rock my style. But I also wanted a nice interior that I couldnt find in other basic sporty type cars in the same price area. This car really moves and always surprises my friends. The leather interior, heated seats and nice stereo system are straight out of a luxury type car. If you are looking for a car thats fast, has a nice interior and is fun to drive. This is the car for you.

  • Beauty is Skin Deep - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is a love/hate review. I love the looks, the 17" wheels, the ride and performance. I dont like the lack of seat space when you fold down the back seat and use the car as a wagon. I am 57" and had to move my seat forward to make room for the folded back seat. If you need a wagon as a wagon, I would suggest you try something else. Another issue showed up immediately. The driver seat keeps heating when you think its turned off. I turned on the front seat to heat myself up after buying the car. Once I was warm, I couldnt get the seat to turn off. So much for one day with the car.

  • 3 weeks and two problems already - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I’ve had my GLI for 3 weeks and it has 1221 miles on it. Here are my problems. First, there is a rattling noise in the car door whenever I have the music on. It is actually worse when I have it on low because I can hear it more. I took it in and they didn’t fix it the first time so now I’m taking it in again so they can fix it (hopefully). Second…my engine light has come on after 1200 miles. Coming from a Toyota RAV4 where I never had any problems, this is strange to me. It’s not the gas lid. When I take it in to get the sound system looked at, I will have them look at the engine light but why would a brand new car need service after 3 weeks?

  • I LOVE THIS CAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love everything about this car, great teen car!!!

  • So far darn good - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought my car in July this year and I have nothing but praise for it. It looks cool,handles beautifully,has all those wonderful extras that you dont expect in the so called "entry level" model and then theres the German workmanship that you just cannot fault. A class act as far as Im concerned.

  • Great little car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Have had the car for 6 months and love it. Extremely fun little car to drive especially with the sport package. Have had it in the shop for 2 minor issues that were warranty related and were taken car of very promptly.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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