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 381 through 390 of 566.00
  • Best Valur for the money - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I did quite a bit of research prior to purchasing this vehicle and I could not find a comparable equipped car for anywhere near the price. Most features are standard and some are only available in the higher range vehicles, i.e, Air Curtains.

  • Given the choice, I would buy it again! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive always liked the Jetta... and now that I own one, I love them even more. Other cars go by and you might not notice them; but when a Jetta drives by, I always notice! The best thing about it is you not only get a high quality car, but you get a fuel efficiency that I could never do without now.

  • I hate this car! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had 3 cars in the last 22 years, this Jetta is the only one in which extended time for repairs have caused me to lose out on jobs. I always wanted a VW but I HATE this car. The parts are too expensive, not always available, and it is hard to work on the car yourself. Pep Boys would not replace a water pump for me because the car was too complicated for their mechanics and the dealership mechanics are far from good. Everything about the car is hard. You must slam the trunk to close it, you must punch the horn to get it to honk. The doors are heavy. The seats are hard. If you drop something under a seat, forget it. The manual is complicated. And I could on and on..

  • perfect commuter car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    After waiting for almost 4 months it finally arrived last December. 13000 m on the o. now. Getting 53-56 miles per gallon.

  • jetta 1.8t - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I got the jetta 1.8t because of my love of turbocharged engines. If you love performance, this car does a good job. The real performance comes when you get a aftermarket chip for the car, makes it a totally different car. The only thing that has happened to me was some of the stitching for thr front seat that holds the back in started to come undone and puffed out. A quick stop by the VW dealership quickly fixed this and they even got me a rental car. Good job, VW! :-)

  • My Jetta Experiance - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had 2 Jettas now! I turned my first Jetta in after one year because it was in the shop so often. Always for something different, so I could not classify it as a lemon. My new Jetta (2003) has already been in the shop for faulty airbags. I find that scary, seeing how I drove the car for a full year before they realized the problem. I will never again purchase a VW. I will only recommend this car to people without children. The cars are cute but VW has some serious quirks to work out in their vehicles!

  • Fun and Classy - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Love the 1.8 turbo motor tied to the 5 speed Tiptronic transmission. My Jetta is a fully loaded GLS with the sport and leather packages. Gas mileage was disappointing at first (20mpg), but now averages about 24-25 mpg since the car now has 12K miles on it.

  • Vroom Vroom Vroom - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I cant get over this CAR!!! This is my fifth VW - third Jetta. I started w/a 71 beetle, then to an 86 Jetta GL, then to a 88 Cabriolet, then a 96 Jetta GLS, now to the 03 Jetta GLI VR6. The acceleration, the braking and the gimme all you got attitude of this car is phenominal. I love the interior, the gal said earlier that the black sport interior (cloth) does attract dust etc. but, leather is no better, as my mom has an 04 Bug Convertible w/leather, its just as bad. Mine is black, and although not first choice I wouldnt trade it for anything. I LOVE MY CAR, the 17 rims, the trunk, the head and tail lights, you NAME IT (EXCEPT the stupid drink holders).

  • My Year old jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I dont know about anyone else, but I love my Jetta 1.8T. I test drove the standard engin, and (Blah) no power. I tried out the turbo, and (WOW) never more fun. I have only have one warrenty problem with my windshield washer things. Other than that Nothing. I love my car! Everyone should go buy one, but not all in the same color (ie. reflex silver, I can never find my can in a parking lot right away).

  • Lot of bang for the buck - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love my car. Before buying, I test drove more expensive cars (Saab, Audi, Acura), but the Jetta just fit really well. I havent regretted my purchase a bit, and I saved thousands to boot. Its been a blast to drive. It really begs to be driven hard and I indulge that as much as possible. It accelarates quickly and the turbo kicks in at low RPMs to give you instant power - no turbo lag at all. Get the sport package and a stick to fully appreciate it.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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