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 501 through 510 of 566.00
  • Diesels are GREAT - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Manual trans is fun. I feel like I am in control just like years ago with the standard transmission. The pick up is good working the gears.

  • Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The Jetta is the best car in its price range and class. Fit and finish are superb, performance is excellent, its fun to drive and its not too expensive for what you get. I love my Jetta!!!

  • Disappointment - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had this car for 3 weeks & it has been in the shop for more than 7 days of that 3 weeks. Ive written VW about it & they called the service center & ticked them off while my car is still in the shop! I had trouble before it had 1000 miles on it. Some kind of malfunctioning sensor in the steering column. They tore the entire dash out of the car to get to it. Theyve had it for 5 consecutive days now and act like I shouldnt be upset. I really would be happy if I could just drive my new car.

  • Easy drive - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Love this car, never worry about falling behind. enjoy the driving.

  • My Alaska Green turned Lemon - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Out of the two weeks that I have owned car, one week has been spent in the shop, and the car is still there. Problems with the computer and sensory stuff. "CPU" and dash console have been replaced...car only has 200 miles on it. Id now rather be owning my loaner than my new jetta. So sad, discouraging. While the car will be fixed, I have no assurance this wont happen again. I have lost all trust in my new car. The jetta I was so excited to own and drive is now my heart ache.

  • Turbo Boost - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I alwasy liked the Jetta and finally bought one. The turbo engine is going to get me in trouble it accelerates quickly. The body styling is clean and very european. The interrior is functional and comfortable. Roomy up front cramped in back. For me it is perfect I seldom have passingers anyway. Very fun to drive.

  • Great little package - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Its easily your all-round performer. Its a compact car. Its a sporty car. Its a luxurious car. Its everything at the same time - thats why I love it. Need to dress up and hit the town in style? The Jettas shape and form is classy enough. Want to enjoy some sporty driving? Put the strong little 1.8T engine to work, and it responds. Need a family hauler? The Jetta does the trick there too. Everything seems almost perfect, from the placement of controls to the feel of the trim. Everything works as you expect it to work, not how some funky engineering team designed it. Smart design, excellent execution. Try it - youll love it too!

  • BMW Performace, Volkswagen Prices - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    After owning various BMW models, including the market-leading 3-series sedan, Ive come to own a Tornado Red Jetta GLI. Ive found it to be an immensly entertaining ride, with a free-revving and torquey VR6 engine, a slick 6 speed which is a joy to row and pedals placed perfectly for heel- and-toe downshifts. The suspension readily absorbs road irregularities while being stiff enough to prevent excessive body roll. An all-around fun car to drive which rewards great drivers.

  • Good car for awhile - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    When I purchased my 2003 Volkswagen Jetta, it only had 47,000 miles on it. Not bad considering it was already three years old, and there was only one owner before me. I put at least almost 40,000 miles on it in two years, and it has not been bad, but when I first got it the wheel alignment was so off that I had to replace the rear CV joints and purchased new tires TWICE for the rear. Volkswagen should keep manufacturing in GERMANY and stop being so what I call America Cheap. That is when large corporations instead of paying export fees opt to manufacture in less expensive countries, which turns out to be more expensive for the consumer. I have compared the 1996 with the 2003. Keep trying

  • 1.8T spirit - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    First new car I ever purchased - after test-drive speeding up a long hill with the 5-spd, just had to have it! Winter package great for MN. Dealership replaced ignition coils on recall w/o problem; now seat heater is on recall. This car "floats" on highway, is smooth in city, turbo kicks in at low speed. Gets respectable gas mileage - up to 39- 40 highway on cruise control. Love the nighttime lights and overall look. Large trunk w/pass-through. Only real issue is fuse on windshielf fan-blower that blew twice in two months last winter - dealer couldnt find cause.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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