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 21 through 30 of 566.00
  • Fun but not very reliable - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is a very fun car to drive, however, I wouldnt buy another one. First, Ive had way too many problems with my power windows. Second, the interior materials peel. There is a slight covering on the interior surface that peels off. Third, I"ve had all kinds of problems with the clutch in my vehicle. What makes it worse is the dealership hasseling me over the work. Between the car experience and the dealership I will never buy another Volkswagen.

  • Wow, just wow. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Only recently purchased used but love it, Love It, LOVE IT. It just positively screams. Car was a dealer loaner for the past 5 years, only 42k miles so at least I know the maintenance is current. I do feel like the interior is a bit small, but its a tiny price to pay for the performance and styling. Most people say get the leather but I like cloth just fine. Its scary how quiet it is also. The great part is, yeah, it takes 93 octane but who care about an extra 20 cents per when gas is $4 per gallon anyway and still gets really good mileage? Stereo is great, handling is tight. That the gearing is so close together its a bit to get used to but fun as hell off the mark.

  • Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This Jetta was my first introduction into the world of true German engineering, and I have nothing but great things to say about it. I have owned this vehicle for almost 4 years and it is an awesome car to drive. VR6 has so much potential beyond its advertised 200 bhp, power band is phenomenal, and its styling/design make it a showy car anywhere. It is good to see a car that can compete with many Japanese rivals in stock condition. Not too many problems to deal with (a couple of O2 sensors, recalls, and one broken plastic piece). I have been to VW service centers all along East coast and they have all been more than helpful. A lot of car for the money!!!

  • i love this car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had this car for almost a year and i love it. Its a great fun car and i would buy another one in a heart beat......If anyone is looking to buy one get it. I was worried about performance out of a 2.0 but it has great torque I love it!!!!!!

  • vroom--vroom - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have alwasys been a VW fan. This just builds my confidence in the maker. Solid handling and quickl acceleration make it a fun car to drive.

  • Nice to drive - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The interior and outerior of the car is perfect. Gives me a feeling of a luxery car. However, I think when it starts, the accleration is slow. It is powerful when it already at high speed, but at low speed it is even less powerful than a civic. I brought Turbo engine because I want it to run fast. But I alwasy feel powerless when begin to move.

  • Jetta - Disguised piece of junk - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I notice a lot of these reviews are from people who have had their Jetta for a week or so and "just love them". Wait till youve had it for a year or so. Ill start from the top.. Ive had to have my mass air flow sensor replaced, my computer reprogrammed, catalayic converter replaced, window regulator replaced, "check engine" is on 5 out of 7 days a week, windows go up and down when you just want it to go up, stereo gets "cup sweat" on it and stops working, A/C is loud and doesnt cool even the driver, and its the most un-dent resistant material ever! Thank god for the lemon law...

  • Worst Decision Ive ever made! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I heard so many great reviews about the Jetta. So, I decided to get it, without a test drive (WHY!?). Im so dissatified with the car. Its very noisy, loud engine, doesnt accelerate quickly, no leg room, cup holders are a nusiance, defroster does nothing, etc....

  • Got it right! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    VW has gotten it right with this one. I pulled into the fuel station yesterday and filled up. 229 miles city dirving took 5.1 gallons of fuel. Oh, by the way that was my first tank. Cant wait to see what it does when it gets broken in. This car drives like it was made to drive. I have owned several diesels and loved the economy but not the lack of power. This one has both economy and power. Love it.

  • Nice for Finances During Gas Craziness. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is a fun car to drive with good fuel economy during bad fuel times. You have to watch for little things, like the gas and coolant caps, that can cause you some grief if not screwed on properly (Ive learned several calls later to my delearship, "this light came on..."). Overall I would say this is a very good car for the money and I feel safe and cool driving it.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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