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 131 through 140 of 204.00
  • cool car - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    geat car fun to drive and economical its a real blast

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

    This car will fly! drives smooth, handles bumpy roads very well, excellent air conditioner- gets cool quickly and car still has excellent power while running air,heated seats are wonderful, excellent warranty, this is my 3rd beetle and each model year gets better,turbo is best model to have

  • Mid-life Crisis Resolved - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Fell in love with this car immediately just on looks, but was completely sold when I test drove it. The 2.0 engine gives fine performance and really does have plenty of zip for the highway. The top operates easily and Im just waiting for full blast spring to really have fun. A great price for a nifty baby boomer dream car. Even room in the back seat for a big dog (always use pet seat belts).

  • so darn cute!!! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    We had to have this car!!! It is our fun car, just tooling around the city, whether it be errands or a evening drive. We just absolutely love it. The turbo is a must have, since the pick up is amazing. We love the sound system and added the six disc cd changer (although it was ridiciously priced).

  • LOVE MY BUG!!!!!! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This is the ultimate nostalgia car for anybody who fell in love with the original Bug model. My first car was a 68 VW bug and it just rusted out before a cross-country move I made. This remake of the VW Bug more than satisfies my desire to drive a Bug again. With all the cool, up-to-date features VW offers, it is second to none!! The diesel fuel option was a huge selling point for me as my former car was a conversion van. The contrast is stunning!! It is a very, very fun car to drive!

  • I Love My Bug!!! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I just purchased a 2003 New Beetle a week ago, and I love it!!! It handles great, looks great & sooo fun to drive. The front seats have as much head and leg room as my husbands 4-dr dodge truck. It has so many options that make it a very "smart" little car. Like they say, "Dynamite comes in small packages", this car is DYNAMITE, it will run. A car with personality & attitude. VW put a lot in this car. I love my bug!!!

  • Most Excellent Car - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I am no car expert but I have had the best time driving this car. I have had no problem with enough power starting off or on the highway. This car has plenty of zip to move in and around city traffic which I do a lot of. It holds to the road quite nicely and I would not have it any other way. It has been so much fun to drive! The gas milage is great!

  • Worst car on market - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This car has been nothing but trouble: the gas mileage is half of what it should be, the dealership lied about the length of the warranty in relation to the length of our lease, and when we tried to get out of the lease early found out that they have this weird policy that could cost you thousands of dollars. Go with something else, preferably that doesnt share a service center even with VW

  • Love my Beetle - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    My convertible is black with black interior. Ive had my nbc close to 2 months and I love the car. I know people complain that the 2.0 doesnt have enough power...it can be a little sluggish but nothing you cant deal with. The turbo sure would be nice though. Just wish I hadnt gotten black! Really hard to keep clean. The bugs love this car too which is a pain. Buying the car went smoothly. The people at the dealership were great. Overall a nice car...in my opinion.

  • I Love This Car - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Im a 51 yo man, 61". I just purchased a 2003 VW New Beetle, GLS, 1.8, 5-speed. I love it and find it to be one of the most fun cars I have ever driven. The power is responsive, and the car handles great on the highway. Knobs and dials are intuitive and user friendly. At night the interior cabin lights are fabulous-- reds and blues and a few yellows. This car makes driving more fun than I can remember since I was a teenager. It is quite a sophisticated little car with up-to-date technology and engineering. If you like the looks of the car, go and test drive one. Who knows, you may love it.

Volkswagen New Beetle Reviews By Year:
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