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 181 through 190 of 204.00
  • Dont Buy it!!!!! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Do not buy this car!!!! I have had mine for 10 days. The roof malfunctioned and cracked the side of the car. After calling one dealership who wouldnt even look at it for week, I called customer service, they found a dealer willing to look at it, but who honestly told me it wouldnt do any good because the parts wont be available until mid-may.

  • New Beetle Convert - Always a Problem - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    When its all working? How fun. But most of the time something is broken. Windows, Convertible top mechanism, lights. Convertible mechanical flaps. Very expensive to fix any of it. Dont buy this car for the quality.

  • Displaces Mosquito as Most Annoying Bug - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    The four sources of Beetle mega- annoyance: The non-negotiable light switch; the auto locking system that cannot be overidden for more than 15 seconds; the keyless remote that requires a flashlight to operate after sundown; the BIG ONE -impossibility of removing dust from the fly paper- surface dash and cloth upholstery. what a mess! All unimportant but a constant pain.I only have 5K miles for Cs sake.

  • One Awsome VW - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I bought the convertible for my wife on our anniversary. She and I love the car! It puts a smile on our faces. It is not a car for an introvert. Everyone stares and smiles as we drive by. The turbo is the way to go. My GLX has every option including the wind blocker. It is awfully quick as well. I cant go on enough about our love for this car. It holds its own and is the love of our stable which includes an Audi A6 2.7T, an Audi A4, and a Cadillac STS.

  • Dead at 66.000 Miles! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I purchased my Beetle for 4 years in 2003. It was in the shop 6 times the first year! Now at 66,000 miles the engine has lost all compression. My local mechanic could not find a reason so I had it towed to the VW dealership to see if they could tell me what happened. They did not have a clue, but said the engine is definitely dead. I had the oil changed every 4000 miles. The power train warranty expired at 60,000 miles (before 2003 it was a 100,00 mile warranty. I am through with VWs! (oh yes, and I still owe money on this pile of junk)

  • Its AWESOME - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This car has the same engine as the Audi A4 but performs way better than an A4 (I had driven an A4 for a while). It can go fast, and Its fun to drive. The overall handling is very good which I really didnt expect!

  • 2003 GLS Convertible is a winner! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    VW has done a fantastic job with this new model! Great handling, fun to drive. The rag top roof is a feature I have waited for since the New Beetle introduction. Cant wait for the first Spring day to pull back the roof and let the sun-shine-in.

  • a baby TT at an affordable price - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I have traded in a Corvette Z06 for a Turbo S and I am not sorry I did. Of course, I cannot compare horse power with a Corvette, but this baby TT does not disappoint anyone. With some modifications (sport springs and rear sway bar, lower profile tires and larger rims) I can compete for curves just like any sports car out there. And the different exterior does stand out in the crowd. Overall, I get a cheap car that is fully loaded and unique. Well worth the trade.

  • shh...she thinks im a corvette.... - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    my convertible is black with tan interior,named Ringo cause its a beetle. i am really impressed with vw they have made a small car but with large car details (side airbags)the convertible is very roomy even the back (i have twin 13yrolds) is good not for long trips but for the beach and back its great.

  • Looooove My Beetle - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I love my Beetle, 6 speed, how many women out there can drive this baby? Only one thing wrong with it - I have to remind myself every time I drive it. You dont need a Traffic Award!

Volkswagen New Beetle Reviews By Year:
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