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 331 through 340 of 566.00
  • 2003 and STILL kickin - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I purchased my 2003 1.8T Jetta 5-speed new. Aside from a new water pump at 60k miles (normal) and a faulty coil over arc this car is the best car I have ever owned. It is now 2011 and have 100k miles with original brake pads and original clutch and trans. The car runs beautifully.. It helps A LOT if you drive your car gently and DONT "over tach" and screech your tires! When it comes to having a good or bad car, its a 50/50 thing. Just getting lucky and picking a good one combined with how you drive it and maintain it. I highly recommend using synthetic oil. I have used Mobil 1 from day one and my motor doesnt burn a DROP of oil 100k miles later. Love your car & it will love you back!!

  • Only feels Expensive - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    After driving the diesel, turbo, and 2.0 engines on the Jetta, I decided on the standard 2.0. The ride is very European and "rich". I have been reading many reviews on this car, and all the negatives from older models (cupholders, and dropping windows) have been redesigned. These two problems were mentioned in almost every review I have read. The treatment I got at the Volks dealer was what really "put me over the top" and made me go with my Jetta. I purchased from a privately owned dealer in Delray Beach, Florida who isnt part of one of those big dealer groups...You even get the owners home phone number if you ever have a problem....impressive!

  • VW Stinks - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Lemon Alert! This car is a great, fast, sexy model, but its mechanical reliability is horrible. VW has a serious problem with premature clutch blowouts at less than 50,000 miles. $2,000 later I have to sell the car because of a problem they say is my fault. As an experianced manual driver, this is more than an insult. This is a sham. VW of America is a racket! At 47,000 miles a clutch should not blow out! Every mechanic I spoke to has told me that even if I was a cluch rider, this should not have happened. This is not an isolated incident. Google "vw clutch failure" and you will get thousands of reports from VW owners for the same premature blowout. This is the last VW I will ever own...

  • Mostly Reliable - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Bought this Jetta new in 2003. It has been a reliable commuter except for the usual VW problems. Replaced the plastic water pump at 75,000 miles. Also, the computer is very sensitive. Check engine light pops up occasionally. Changed mass air flow sensor twice, O2 sensor, coolant temp sensor three times. On the bright side, the Jetta is a smooth ride with a very comfortable interior. Love the heated leather seats! Still getting 32mpg on the highway after 6 years.

  • 03 GLI - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is my 3rd VW. I had a 96 GTI VR6 before this. I think the GTI was larger in the front seat as well as the rear. I had leather on it too. I didnt want leather on this one because I live in Texas and it gets too hot in the summer. My GLI is black on black with "sport cloth". Its kinda rough and attracts dust and hair like a magnet. Wish I had gone ahead and purchased the leather package instead.

  • great car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Bought this car brand new fully loaded. Have only had one problem with coils, but was replaced under warranty. My wife drives it and loves it. I plan to upgrade with a chip once off warranty, but it has pretty good power stock. Love the quality of the car, even though it costs a bit more than comparable sedans. Would recommend the car to anyone. One dislike is having to replace the stock tires after 20,000 miles, and the 17 inchers are pricey. Otherwise, love the car, and I plan on looking at a GTI with the 1.8T for myself.

  • Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car is so much fun and great on gas. I drive 1 hour to work and 1 hour back and can get through Friday before filling it up. It is so much fun to drive!

  • Great CAr - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My TDI has performed flawlessly over the last 3 months. The ride is sporty and the mileage is nearly as good as a Toyota Prius. I give this a strong recommendation!

  • Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    It really drives and handles well. Getting 45 mpg is awesome and going 600+ miles between fill ups is nice. The wagon surprisingly hold a lot of stuff, with the front seats of the car being roomy. 10,000 miles between maintenace is a plus.

  • ONE GREAT CAR!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Have had the car a little over a year and love it. I commute 100 miles round trip everyday, have 38,000 on the odometer and my car is doing great. Couldnt wait to start modding my car with aftermarket parts. With my additions the car is even more enjoyable. Stiffer suspension, quicker acceleration, and some interior mods make this a fun car to drive. Have had no mechanical problems accept for factory recalls.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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