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 441 through 450 of 566.00
  • There is no alternative - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Amazing what 4 cyl, turbo, and German engineers can do. As former engineer, am picky. Found attention to detail superior to any other. Every inch has purpose. For 03 they smartly combined savings of GL int. with performance of 1.8T. Engine has economy of 4 cyl. but pep of turbo. Was willing to give up leather/sunroof for 1.8T. With stick, it flies. Amazingly, the "base" interior LOADED. ANY other brand in base interior would leave you with deficit in comfort or performance - requiring extra $ in aftermarket improvements.

  • Bigger - pocket rocket!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Own a 2003 GLS 1.8T for 3 weeks now. Love the drive. Even more standard features. Just remember its a compact car, not a luxury car. No complains while I still have the new car warranty.

  • Love my 1.8t!!!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car is so much fun to drive, its super smooth and great when you need an extra boost. I love the interior style and the outside design is solid. I would recommend this car to anyone...its perfect!

  • Luv It - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    So far so good. I luv it. Luv the performance and gas mileage. Have had 1 problem with it and that was a humming noise from the front when you made turns. They replaced the transmission fluid with a synthetic fluid and the problem went away. There is a tech. notice on this for those of you who also have this problem. The delearship was good but their maintenence dept is the best I have ever been to. They keep you updated every 30 mins while you wait.

  • Do Not Buy....:( - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    There are serval issues that will come along with a owning a Jetta. The car is one of the most unreliable car I have ever owned. Malfunctions-power windows, transmission, water pump, sound system, engine coil. I hope this review will help you choose your vehicle wisely. I wish that I would have done more research. Do not be fool to believe that all VW owners are truly happy. Ask the opinion of those that are near the service department of the dealer you may choose to visit. They will speak the truth and not steer you in the wrong direction, since they have first hand experience.

  • So far so good - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I recently purchased this car as a practical everyday driver and I am loving it. It is not very powerful, but the 2.0l does well enough. The manual gearbox is wonderful and is very fun. The car handles surprisingly well. I am happy with the fuel economy (average 29.5) and so far have not had any mechanical issues. There are a few squeaks and rattles from various places in the interior, but other than that the car is very clean. It is almost at 100xxx miles and still runs like a champ. The heater is also excellent in this car, which is important as I am from Wisconsin. I have put about 3xxx miles on so far and am very happy with this car.

  • Diesel Delight - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have purchased nothing but diesel vehicles since about 1993, and this one wont send me back to gas! Despite a few negatives (mostly the flimsy front end spoiler which catches on curbs and has cost me about $100 to fix on 3 occasions) we love this car more every day. 45-50 mpg is the norm, the only drawback being the need to pay about $750 to replace the timing belt every 100,000 miles. Its repairs have been minimal--a defect in the wiring harness when we first got it, and replacing the power steering fluid line due to a mechanics error-- both covered by warranty. It produces none of the smoke that older technology diesels produce. My sole regret is that I didnt buy a Passat TDI in the mid-90s!

  • Hot Rod Wagen - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    We purchased a VW Jetta Wagon with the VR6 and Sport suspension. It has seen a lot of miles and we havnt had a single problem. The workmanship is outstanding and the performance is amazing. This little grocery getter wont stop for groceries. It just blows on by. Its a blast to drive and always wants to be driven. The only complaint I have is that its hard to drive slow. If they can change the location of the cupholder, I could cruise all day. This is really a Passat, except $8,000 dollars cheaper. This is my first VW and I am really looking forward to the V-12 powered Toureg. No more Hondas/Toyotas for me...Im hooked

  • 2002 Jetta GLS (5M) - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Despite some negative feedback from a few owners, my vehicle has been very reliable. Power is outstanding on the 1.8 Turbo, with fuel efficiency second to none. Build quality is excellent, inside and out. I am very satisfied with this vehicle and recommend it highly.

  • This car is the best - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car has been completely incredible. Ive driven cars from every major maker, including the most premium luxery car companies, and even BMW and Mercedes dont produce cars which match this cars overall quality, in terms of hadnling, interior and exterior aesthetics, and safety. And this car costs roughly half what its competition from those companies cost. Incredible.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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