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 101 through 110 of 204.00
  • Coil Packs, Coil Packs, Coil Packs. - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Purchased this 2003 Beetle with 39k on 12-31-08 for daughter. Ive had to replace three coil packs, the 4th was already replaced when the car was purchased. VW had a problem with issue, but told me this car was not covered under the recall back during 2003. I was also told that I could take this car to the dealer and pay $100.00 to get the codes read and if I keep the receipts and if they ever do recall this issue, then I could send in for a refund. I decided to use the $100.00 code fee and purchase new coil packs. I did buy a code scanner off of eBay for less than $30.00, it reads and clears the Check Engine Light after you make the repair. This car has the 1.8T engine.

  • Fun loving car - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Great car. Love to drive it and enjoy all of the smiles I get from people on the streets. Very reliable and very comfy.

  • my next car will be another "new beetle" - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I love this car so much that my next car will be an organe new beetle 2004. (maybe convertible...)

  • LUVMYBUG - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    New Beetle Convertible is fun to drive. Not the most powerful convertible on the market, but definately the funnest to drive. You cannot drive this car without someone rolling down their window to tell you how great the car looks.

  • car4os review - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    buy a beetle because it is great! it drives nicely and it definatly saves gas. it is fun and cool. i love my beetle

  • Lemon? - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I bought this car (with 40 miles on it) because it was a VW and Ive been hearing about the wonderful quality of VWs. 3 days later the Clutch went out. If I ever get it back, its been 2 weeks, Ill let you know if I still like it. I did talk to a friend who has had one for 4 years and his turbo has gone out twice. Lets keep our fingers crossed or Ill have to go back to Kias and Mazdas.

  • Love that Car! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I love it so much that I do not want to trade it in for a 2007, although I probably shall. With every New Beetle there is usually one problem. For the 2000 model, it was the parking gear, which was somehow attached via computer chip to the brake light and the cruise control. For the 2003 model, it was the alternator and the heater. The car handles so beautifully on the road that these are mere annoyances!

  • Cute, but at a pricy - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I have to say, I love my Beetle Convertible, but I am not impressed with VWs reliability or dealer service. In less than 19,000 miles my Beetle has COMPLETELY broken down twice, and I had to have it towed both times through roadside assistance. In fact the first one was on my way home from vacation in Florida, and the delay was not a pleasant expereience. So far Ive had the entire ignition system replaced, new battery and alternator and most recently had to have the front bumper removed just to fix a broken sensor. (A "quick" 6 business day fix) I think VW is right on target with their design and engineering, but they just dont make it all work. I will not be buying another VW.

  • Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    My car did have some problems with the window motor, but the dealer fixed with no problems. Even provided a rental when it was kept overnight.

  • great car - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Fun car. Great to drive on highway. Good value. Very good guality. Would buy again.

Volkswagen New Beetle Reviews By Year:
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