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 341 through 350 of 566.00
  • Great car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Just plain awesome, the diesel gets 37- 47mpg, and is very powerful uphill.

  • I love it - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I picked up my new car on January 3rd. I have 1600 miles on it already. I am getting between 500 and 600 miles out of a tank of fuel, combination city/hwy. This is a great car I plan to keep a long time. And you can even make our own fuel.

  • 50mpg and Fun-to-Drive - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Purchased the VW TDI Wagon at the end of June. As of July 20th it already has 2,250 miles on the car. It has averaged just shy of 50mpg on mostly highway miles. It is fun to be driving a stick shift again, and the low end torque of a diesel in amazing! The car is very nicely equipped for a $20k car.

  • N east jetta tdi sedan Auto trans - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    So far(2500miles)-so good. averaging about 45 miles per gallon of fuel! Handling is good. Several sqeaks in the interior dash and doors. Overall very good handling and GLS features.

  • Great little car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I traded in a Mustang Bullitt for this car and am not disappointed. Although I miss the 275HP and 315torque, this car makes up for that in character. I have 10k miles and havent had any major problems yet! The only problem Ive had so far is a small squeak coming from the glove box. The gas mileage is alright, but could be a little better for a 6 cylinder. The materials used for the interior are light years ahead of US car makers and everything fits snug. My ears actually pop when I roll up all the windows! The only annoying thing is having to pull the headrests out when you want to fold down the rear seats. Overall this is a great car and Id recommend it.

  • Most fun car Ive ever driven - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I already owned a 96 Jetta with a 2.0L engine but the upgrade to the 204 hp VR6 engine was just asounding. This car is just too much fun to drive! I have upgraded a few parts but even when it was stock it was a real treat to drive. Ive since left it in the garage as much as possible as it is in immaculate condition and only has 15,000 miles on it. Its my weekend driver for when I want to have fun. I would recommend the Magnaflow cat-back exhaust system as it makes the car sound amazing! I have had people tell me they could hear me coming from a block away before they could see me and thought a Ferrair was going to go by! I love this car!

  • FAVORITE CAR - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car in November 2010, it has only been a few months of ownership but I absolutely LOVE this car! No other car of this year can really compare. The mpg is excellent! It is a small car, but thats how I like it. I do not like big cars, I dont have a family so I dont need one. It has great handling. I love every moment I spend in my car! I hardly ever want to get out of it. It is comfortable and sleek! I have had no problems with my car so far, it has been great to me=) A pleasure, not a problem. I would recommend this car to everyone!

  • Excellent Safety - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    After my wife got a new car, a 2001 VW Jetta VR6, I got a little jealous. So when it came my turn to buy a new car I bought a Loaded 2003 VW Jetta GLS 1.8T. Unfortunately I just got into a major car accident on Fathers Day (2004) that ended up totalling my Jetta. And after everything was over, I walked away with very minimal injuries, a little cut on my wrist from the front air bag, and I hit my knee on the dash. All six air bags went off, and this car saved my life. And guess what, Im going to buy another one! Great gas mileage, and a blast to drive!

  • A year and a half in review - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The GLI offers a lot in a small package.Sporty and fun to drive. Car is tight on the turns and loves to be pushed. Car feels stable at high speeds and is up to almost any task. I have 14k miles and after some early monsoon radio issues I havent had a prob in 10k miles.18 MPG in the city 25 on the highway-bit low for a car in this class. If i had to do it again I would get the leather package (cloth attracts hair) . All in all a good car that is fun to drive but beware this is no Honda Accord

  • Sweet Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Well, let me just say this is one of the most fun cars Ive ever driven. My old car was a 1981 VW Diesel Rabbit with 52 hp. It really was a good car. The Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 is a huge step up from the Rabbit. This car has more than enough passing power, and if you are not careful, it can be hard to drive the speed limit. Its really comfortable to sit in, I mean with heated leather seats and all. The seats just wrap around you. The 6-speed manual transmission is so cool, going 60 mph your RPMs are at about 2,200. I test drove many other cars before this one, but none come close to the GLI. I am really happy with my decision to get the GLI. This car has more power and torque than you ever need.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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