Overview & Reviews

For 2003, a base GL sedan and wagon are available. Think of the GL as a GLS 1.8T for buyers who don't require any extras like alloy wheels, leather upholstery, seat heaters or a sunroof. Meanwhile, alloy wheels and sunroof are now standard on GLS models. The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system will not be offered on GLS V6 models, forcing interested buyers to cross the 30-grand line; however, VW has made stability control (ESP) optional on all Passats (except the W8, which has this standard). Also this year, you'll be able to get W8 sedans and wagons with a six-speed manual transmission and a sport package that includes a firmer suspension and the requisite 17-inch wheels. Lastly, the standard stereo head unit gets backlighting for the buttons.

• Fun to drive, excellent value in GL or GLS trim, roomy interior with upscale feel, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 100 of 588.00

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  Im Hooked - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By ILuVmyVW - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Just turned in my 99 Passat for a 2003. I love this car! Why spend the extra money for an Audi? Hondas cant compare. Smooth ride, excellent handling, excellent braking, safety - bar none, looks and feels like a luxury car.

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  Excellent, sporty, usefull wagon - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By nathenso - December 20 - 2:00 am

  Though we have only driven our VW for 3 months, we are exceptionally pleased with the quality, solidity, comfort, and ease to manuver. As far as reliability, we have had no trouble. Time will tell

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  unbelievable - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By aik - December 20 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned. Its like driving a cloud. The speed will become legendary. It is a family car and a finely tuned racing machine. It is a pal, a friend and so much fun to drive. It almost knows what you expect of it and it delivers. The v8 engine is unlike any you have seen before. It takes your breath away.

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  Cost-effective Audi/BMW replacement - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By nemakv - December 14 - 10:00 am

  Since the fall of 2001, I drove 30K mileage. Only the front day-time bulb needed to be replaced. Pros: overall an excellent driving experience that make this car a stand- alone valuable alternative to Audi A4/A6 or BMW 3 series. Because Passat model year 2001.5 - 2003 is based on Audi platform and power train, the built quality and engineering is of a premium luxury car for less. The safety futures exceed the industry standard for mid-size sedan. Cons: velour upholstery is retaining any possible lint and fabric imaginable. 1.8T engine, 20 valves turbo gem requires a premium gasoline.

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  passat experience - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By ron1000 - December 2 - 2:00 am

  good car so far fun to drive

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  midsize for $25000 - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By fullboat - November 19 - 10:00 am

  I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and performance of this car.

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  Love!! Love!! Love!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By mel - November 15 - 2:16 am

  Can I just say that I LOVE this car!!! I have only had it alittle over a week, but I love it! I bought it used (2003 w/29K miles) Got a Screamin deal on it from a guy in Portland OR. He wholesales them out and sells them CHEAP!! I have looked around at everything from a Honda Civic to BMW 3Series to a Volvo S40, and this Passat outshines them ALL! This car has ALL the options. I Love the way it handles, the seats really hug you. I read all the consumer reports and reviews on this model. I am coming from a 1992 honda accord, and I have always had hondas, so I was a little nervous to stray and buy a Passat, but I am so glad that I did! I will keep you posted as the days go on.

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  Great Wagon - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Bill_in_ny - September 28 - 10:00 am

  Very nice car (my wifes). Wonderfull fit and finish, loaded with safety features (air bags, anti-lock, pinch free window) very comfy. Rides on air with enough road feel to make it seem like you are part of the car. More room than most SUVs without lugging 4000lbs around. Quick around town and on open road. Great on long trips (took turns and drove staight through from NY to FL)

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  Great car, but... (read this b4 you buy) - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Alison - September 22 - 3:20 am

  I love my Passat except for one thing... days of missed work. Yes, thats right. I have missed about six days of work in the passed three years because of the engine coil problem. Although it is something that is covered by VW, it keeps happening... the engine coils blow out and I cant drive. I need to get towed and waited a day for VW to replace them. There is never a cost to me, except I cant get to work. It makes me sooooooo angry off that my car is so unreliable. This is something that should have only happened once, but six times! Whats wrong? They say that the coils were defective, but why does it keep happening? I hope it doesnt happen to you.

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  Best Car, Best Value - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By wheatie - August 19 - 2:00 am

  This car has been wonderful. I drove the new altima and accord and they both felt cheap compared to the passat. I thought I would have to sacrifice value, but I got heated seats, computer, 2 extra airbags for around $21,000.