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 461 through 470 of 566.00
  • Hondas&Toyotas = More Reliable/Less fun - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Car has been in for repairs 6 times since I bought it new 5 mos ago. There is a disconcerting rubbing/grinding in the steering. All steering parts were replaced and Im battling VW with lemon law violations because the problem still is not fixed (after 4 attempts). The national lemon law representatives for VW overlooked the problem and didnt give me the time of day. Also, the door is rattling loudly despite replacing the window guide, door panel, broken clips, and two other adjustments...VERY frustrating! Disappointing gas mileage. Ive been getting 18-19 mpg city; mid 20s highway w/ 5spd manual 2.0L (A/C NOT in use), flat surface driving.

  • This car rocks! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I absolutely love my car, It is fun to drive and peppy. Its got plenty of pick up which is pretty handy when getting on a freeway, or when you just want to drive around town. I would absolutely recommend this car to a friend, as a matter of fact my husband bought one shortly after I bought mine.

  • My perfect car! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have owned Jettas for the past 5 years and just bought a new 2003 TDI Jetta. I absolutly love it! Im still on my first tank of gas and have already gone 445 miles, and still going! Not bad for an 11-12 gallon tank with 45 MPG (Automatic).

  • Fun, small wagon - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    So far, so good with my 03 1.8T manual wagon. I have had other VWs and wanted a small but sporty wagon and I picked this one up certified pre-owned in September 2006 with 34k miles on it. I have had to replace wear and tear items (brakes, etc.) but I have get to have a mechanical problem with it. Sure, it has quirks (sunroof sometimes opens by itself; cupholders are useless but I dont use them anyway; sometimes te rear hatch doesnt like to open). To me, these are minor annoyances that dont impact my love of the car. I plan to run it into the ground since there arent any fun, small wagons on the market I like (new Jetta too large). So far, so good at 82k miles.

  • Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is a spectacular car, but definitely get the standard transmission with the diesel. The automatic is much too slow.

  • Reliable, Comfortable - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Bought the car new in 2003 and am about to turn 100,000 miles. Still getting 32mpg on the highway. Very comfortable car for the size. Only problems are the plastic water pump (replaced at 70k) and a touchy check engine light.

  • Fit to Finish - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had the car for quite some time now 2 years and the car continues to give me that same feeling I had the first day I brought it home. German quality shines through wish interior fit and finish. The engine is stout with its great power. I have not encountered problems that others have posted, but I have always taken care of my cars. The window has not "fallen in", but the did perform the recall on the window free of charge. This is my forth VW in the last 35 years and I will continue to be a VW man!

  • What a beaut!!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Yes, the windows do "rattle" a little when you hit a bump...yes, the cupholders are in a bad place...but if you are looking for the perfect car, it is not going to come at a $25000 price tag. The car handles wonderfully, the seats are comfortable (not to mention heated), it looks better than any other small sedan and has low maintenence and the highest resale value in its class. You are not going to find a better car for the price. Oh, and to the person who said the doors are heavy...THAT IS A GOOD THING...it means it is a quality, solidly built vehicle. I highly recommend this car to anyone considering it.

  • A Peppy Jetta! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    As a GLSTurbo Jetta owner, Im very satisfied w/the car in the short time Ive had it. Turbo runs like a dream and the automatic is very smooth. Best handling car Ive ever owned. Heres hoping I dont have any of the problems other longer-term owners have had. Build quality, fit and finish, thus far appear to be excellent. A very solid car. Wasnt going to buy a volkswagen, until I test drove this little rocket. And, glad they changed the placement of the cupholders in the 03 model. Drop down cupholders, in front of controls, are rotten. Had that on my Subaru and hated it.

  • Perfection - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Jettas are the best! I would never go back to any other make or model!

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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