2003 Volkswagen New Beetle Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.35/5 Average
204 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Volkswagen makes the TDI and 150-horsepower 1.8T engines available on the base GL trim level. All GLs now come with power windows and cruise control, and the GL 1.8T and all GLS models get alloy wheels. Stability control (ESP), heated seats, and the Monsoon sound system will be available across the line. All models except the GL get a standard sunroof and a larger center console container, and the GL and GLS have new cloth upholstery. Note that last year's Sport model has been discontinued. All models have a more comfortable rear seat, a clock/temperature display on the rearview mirror and turn signals mounted on the outside mirrors. Finally, if you've been holding out for a Beetle convertible since 1998, your wait is almost over -- the first drop tops should arrive at the dealers just in time for, well, winter. The first ones will be 2.0 GL and GLS models in February 2003, 1.8T-equipped GLS and GLX models later in the spring.

Pros:
  • Cute yet classic styling, range of engine choices, long list of standard features, good crash test scores.
Cons:
  • Tight rear-seat accommodations, limited cargo room, high price of Turbo S model.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 204.00
  • A nice Bug - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    The pros: Fun with top down, people love to look at it, reliable, zippy power, vinyl no dead cows to sit on, windsheild is not in your face, lots of head room. Some things that disapoint me: The stupidly short sun visor that doesnt even cover 1/4 of the window to block the sun from the side. I had to get one of those kids sun shades that suctions to the giant side window. The seats are not made for long rides or if you have any kind of back trouble. The pedals are high so if you are tall, its hard to get comfortable. I still have trouble adjusting to the seat, doesnt go back far enough. The back seat is for kids only, it has no comfort. I like the car overall but the comfort is poor. Not it is not for old people.

  • Not a Satisfied Customer - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I purchased a 2003 new beetle in Dec. of 2002.I rated this car so low because there was a malfunction in my vehicle that caused it to "melt down"&almost caught on fire.This happened after a year of driving my car.After taking it to the dealership, they said that because the"melt down"is considered a fire, it voided the manufacture warranty.My insurance co.determined that the cause of the incident was due to a manufactures defect.After reporting this to Volkswagon America,I was told that there was nothing that could be done.I was not satisfied with the reliability of the vehicle and there is a chance that this can happen to other customers.

  • I LOVE THIS CAR! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This car is the best!! It drives smooth and cool!This should be the only car available to the public!

  • shoes - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    its a cool car

  • AWESOME!!! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I HAVE NEVER HAD SO MUCH FUN DRIVING! My Uni Red Bug with the Lifestyle Package leather interior is better than any other car Ive driven. The performance is of the highest quality and the Turbo engine "kicks butt." My soon-to-be 17-yr.-old son complained about the car at first, but once he drove it, he was hooked. Hell go absolutely anywhere with me as long as he gets to drive. The car is sporty, comfortable, fun, roomy, sassy, and theres a surprising amount of room in the trunk!

  • window problems - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    i have owned new cars for over 30 yrs - the new vw beetle convertable is the most fun and best fitting car i have owned. it hugs the road and is great on turns. unfortunetly i have had it back to the dealer 3 times for a rear window problem - the dealer scratched the inside panel and had to send it to the body shop to be re-painted then buried the metal clip to the seat belt inside the panel! while i am love my car, i am very unhappy about it spending so much time in the shop for these "annoyances"(4times total in 6 months) i have always owned new cars in order to avoid these problems.

  • Few comments - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This car has lots of pep and is easy to drive. Its interior design makes the most of a small car.

  • Still a new classic - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Some people think that the popularity of the new beetle is waning and with the rise of the mini cooper, it will cease to exist. I hope theyre wrong.. the styling is wonderful inside and out, the safety features and ease of use are terrific, and it is stable and fun to drive.

  • No Problems with This Beetle! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    After reading about all the problems on the New Beetle Convertible, I had to review mine. After nearly 20,000 miles its been flawless except for a turn signal issue that the dealer addressed. Dealer told us to ALWAYS use the top cover or risk having the top torn away at highway speeds.

  • fun car all aroun - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    unique car; interior is fun at night; fun to drive

Volkswagen New Beetle Reviews By Year:
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