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 401 through 410 of 566.00
  • another great VW - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought my Jetta Diesel in January, and love the peppy little thing! Ive driven 7,000 miles so far, getting about 45 mpg. The only reason I had to bring it back to the dealer was the sunroof wouldnt close and the drivers map light would not stay on. I got the stick shift thinking I need it for accelleration and fuel ecconomy. Its ackward to shift with the armrest down, and hard to reach the radio controls while in 3rd or 5th gear. Stick with the automatic! Theres plenty of head and leg room for my six foot frame. The stereo is great with cassette and CD, large buttons, and great sound.

  • Great - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car looks great inside and out and it drives awesome. My favorite car was the jetta, and after i got it i loved it even more.

  • Fun car to drive - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car is fast enough to take you safely to work. Driving this car makes me feel 5 years younger. The 6 speed manual transmission is amazing if you live in areas with no heavy traffic. Perfect clutch length makes it easy to switch gears. After three months of ownership I have to say that the perfomance and quality are outstanding. Ill be happy to update my review if anything goes wrong with my Jetta.

  • Nice advertising not so nice car... - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Good luck with this car... Before you buy, take a look at the service hours. Determine if you can afford to take 1/2 - 1 day off from work to have your car serviced. Note: they do have weekend hours but only for certain types of service. They will not provide a loaner car for certain types of service. You guessed it, if the service you need done during the week does not fall into the right category theyd be happy to rent you a car! Poor automatic transmission. It audibley clunks when it is required to downshift. I would not purchase a VW again... My prior car a Nissan Sentra was surrounded by excellent service, good hours and lasted me 160,000 miles.

  • Its a Good Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    When I first bought this car I loved... Love the vr6 with the 6-speed Manuel, its a really comfortable car... But I wish I wouldnt have bought it... Its a great car but Im not a car person... I had a 2000 pathfinder that I traded in and I really miss the utility... I have had the jetta for almost 2 years and I miss having a ton of room on the inside... Thats my only complaint... Its a great car to just roll down the Windows open the sunroof and crank up the radio and just drive... Perfect weekend car...

  • Try a TDI, Youll Like it! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought a 2003 Jetta TDI wagon in April 03 and have driven it over 15,000 miles. At 6 4" tall, I find ample leg and head room thanks to an easily adjustable seat and telescoping / tilt steering wheel. The seats are firm yet comfortable for long trips. The 1.9 liter oil-burner is the quietest, smoothest diesel engine Ive ever heard. The 5-speed manual tranny and clutch work together in perfect harmony; the shift throws are short and crisp. An economical car as well as a "drivers" car!

  • 2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Overall, I am completely dissatisfied with this car. It is sad to say that I will never purchase a VW again! I wouldnt drive this car off a cliff! During winter it would not start. I took to the dealer 3 times and they said nothing was wrong. I paid a lot of money for supposed German engineering and quality that arent there.

  • Best Compact Sedan - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The best compact sedan in the market. Good looking, good performance. Basicly the best value for your money!

  • Very Average - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought my 2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T new in 03. It immediately had some problems with the ESP (took it back twice for the same problem). A year later I had to go back to the dealer for some other electrical problems. Now theres a rattle in the engine compartment and its making a popping noise from the front left wheel while turning (yet nobody can find a problem). This car was babied from the beginning and I am still having problems with it. However, it is fun to drive. The 1.8T engine has nice power and minimal turbo lag. Its suspension is mushy at speed though, Ive been in cheaper cars that handle better. The Jetta looks are great inside and out, with the exception of a few cheap looking accents (door grips wear, floor mat holder broke).

  • Awesome Ride!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I was originally going to buy my Jetta with a mind to use it as a commuter vehicle. With that in mind, I was looking at the TDI as a powerplant. When I went to test drive at Frema Motors in Goldsboro, I fell in love with the VR6. Wow!!! What a ride!!! With a 6-speed manual transmission and 200 ponies under the hood......well lets just say it was an unbelievable experience. The ride was road hugging with the sports suspension, with plenty of acceleration for needed get up and go!!! Simply stated, it was the best experience overall I have ever had on a test drive! Two thumbs up for the GLI VR6 Jetta!!!!!!!!!

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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