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 371 through 380 of 566.00
  • So far so good - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    After 1500 mi., this vehicle has been good (keeping my fingers crossed). There are only 2 complaints. First, the sport seats are a bit snug, . My second complaint centers around the disingenuosness of Volkswagen. One of the selling points of this car was that it had a full-sized spare tire. The tire is full-sized all right, but it is a 16 inch tire while the other four tires on the wheels are 17 inch. I feel that VW should have been up front about this instead of giving the consumer the "stealth-silent" treatment.

  • I once was a Skeptic too - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have owned My Silver Jetta named Brach for a year now and I could not be more happy with this car. It is without a doubt one of the best values on the market, and call me lucky but I am a very aggressive driver and I have not had one problem with Brach besides my wheels having to be balanced and rotated often ( I am really agressive). I sell Nissans, and we have an X5, Maxima, and Intrigue that I drive on the regular, all costing far more than the Jetta and it always feels like it is in the same league as the others. Great car.

  • Cant beat the MPG - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    So far, so good. I have not had a single problem after 20K miles. The ride is nice and space is what you would expect from a small wagon. What puts it over the top is the 44+ MPG for the amount of space in the vehicle. The leather is a must, just compare the cloth and leather at the dealer and you will understand. The back seat room is small but with a 1 year old, it will be a long time before that becomes a serious issue. Ill move up to a Passat TDI by then. Purple & Red dash lights at night are a treat.

  • Left Honda et al in dust - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Yes it is a little more expensive than comparable economy sedans, but it is more than worth it! The style, performance, and driving fun are fabulous.

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

    How can you go wrong with the prices of fuel? I get more than 1,000 km (600 miles) per tank and diesel costs 10% less than gas. I sold my 92 Explorer for an 03 VW and I am making money in the process. This was before prices got crazy, my saving are more now. The car is quality throughout, leather heated seats (great for Canada), heated mirrors, huge huge trunk space for clubs and such. The back seats fold down for even more trunk space. She rides like a dream and seems to be made of a heavier gauge steel than most cars.

  • To many defaults! VW is garbage! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I foolishly bought this vehicle in 06. The sporty black on black look sold me instantly. 30 days after purchasing the jetta the water pump, electrical & sunroof messed up! Ive prob invested over $4k since & counting? Vw is very expensive to fix & just for a side mirror to be replaced at vw was $954! My recall for the sunroof wasnt even accepted! This car has been a nightmare! The sunroof leaks, the waterpump went bad, there is no leg room for back seat passangers & for Goodness sake why is the cup holders above the radio? I cant see the station nor put in a cd without removing the drinks & water from my cups leak over the radio & into my cash tray. Finding rims to fit is challanging also

  • Kind Of Stinks - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car used about a couple weeks ago. Im starting to notice a few things. Firstly the horrible crayola smell! Its such a strong nasty odor that gives me headaches when i drive. Found out i need to remove sound deadening material under carpet to eliminate the smell. Its shifting is jerky. A belt in the motor squeaks loud so i replaced it but continues to make noise, was told its something more pricier to fix. Steering wheel is hard to turn. Car struggles when going up hills, transmission gets loud. Shocks squeak loud. Purchased car because it was the most decent one available at car dealership. Regret buying this car. Will definitely stick to hondas after paying off this car.

  • really great!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    near perfect, except tail lights, they look ok

  • look out svt - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    near perfect, very little turbo lag

  • Should be a Ford fix and repair daily - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Constant repairs only 20,000 miles and most of that to repair shop been towed three times now the Windows fell out looks good just needs lots of glue and bumper to bumper for life would not recommend this car.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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