2003 Volkswagen Jetta Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.42/5 Average
566 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Volkswagen eliminates the GLX trim level for wagons -- this means that those who prefer the VR6 engine to the 1.8T engine will have to stick with the sedan. As a consolation, GLS wagons equipped with the 1.8T are eligible for a premium package, which bundles traditional GLX content like power seats, automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, wood interior trim and a trip computer. Additionally, VW has made the 1.8T available on both the GL sedan and wagon. GLs now have power windows and mirrors, cruise control and a CD player, while the GLS gets a standard sunroof and alloy wheels. All Jettas are available with stability control (ESP), heated seats and the Monsoon sound system. Other changes include a ULEV rating for the 2.0-liter four-cylinder, redesigned cupholders and backlit buttons on the standard stereo head unit.

Pros:
  • Powerful 1.8T and VR6 engines, fuel-efficient TDI powerplant, fun to drive, comfortable ride, rich interior materials, loads of standard features, solid build quality.
Cons:
  • More expensive than most small sedans and wagons, tight rear-seat legroom.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 566.00
  • Simply the best - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Competant, safe, and reliable

  • Excellent, Fast, Reliable, Looks Great - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    As you can see, I have an 03 Jetta 1.8T Tiptronic 5-speed I bought with 28k...now has 91k 2.5 years later. Ive owned four late model Cadillacs (two DeVilles and two Eldorados). I was so disappointed in the Northstar V8 and the very cheap interior in all of them that I decided I would buy imported only now on. Boy, am I glad I did!!! First of all, the 1.8T is strong, reliable, FAST, and easy to work on and upgrade. The interior is sleek and leather is high quality and durable. Monsoon audio is awesome, but better with a subwoofer. The exterior is very sexy and stylish. The 17" wheels are great, especially with a good set of Z- rated performance tires. Too many good things to list.....

  • Satisfied - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    It is a great sport car with right size and powerful engine

  • Time will tell........ - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Im a new owner and looking forward to leaving an update in a few months. I have the leather (very nice) package with the Monsoon Sound, ESP, etc. Excellent acceleration and the handling is crisp.

  • my first VW - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    hi I just want to say that I recomend the jetta to everyone, i feel very safe (4airbags) the car just hugs the road on turns and curves ..i live in N.Y and out highway are not the greatest ...but my jetta is taking the bumps and potholes like a champ ! good luck everyone..p.s the leather and sunroof make a difference !

  • Be very careful! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have always wanted a VW. About six months ago I totaled my car so I was in the market for a new vehicle. I found a beautiful 2003 VW Jetta with 49,000+ miles at Carmax. It seemed like the perfect car. Given the fact that it was a 2003 with almost 50,000 miles I decided to buy the Carmax warranty. And Im SO glad I did! A month after I bought the car the windows and door locks would only work when it seemed to be hot outside. If it wasnt about 90 I couldnt roll the windows up or down! And never mind being able to lock the doors! Shortly there after the air conditioning stopped working. Throughout the less than three months that I have owned the car, aside from everything

  • Jetta The best car ever!...and safe too! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have a 99 Jetta and I tell ya, I refuse to buy another car. Im selling my car right now and Im upgradeing to a 2004 Jetta. I got in a car accent about a year ago. I was in my jetta and I stopped for a red light when a man in a BMW hit me from behind going 40 mph. The accent did do some damage to my car but I tell ya, It should have been a lot worse. My bumper absorbed all the accent and I didnt get hurt at all. I do have to admit, the BMW looked like it hit a tree. It did not crash well. I was not the least bit impressed. I highly recomend a jetta to anyone. I recomend a jetta to anyone who is looking for a new car.

  • great buy - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I enjoy every moment in my Jetta, it is fun and has been very reliable. I have 70k miles on it and have not had one problem.

  • Lemon - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Within 6 mos of ownership: the drivers side window fell into the door and the drivers side tail light burnt out, suspension started making creaking noises, coil pack went out, computer burnt up, sub-frame bolts were stripped and needed to be replaced, as well as other parts on the suspension. Been to dealer 6 times to correct creaking noises, but to no avail. Vehicle has spent more time in service in the past 3 mos than Ive seen it-total of about 40 days. Not my idea of reliability. Appalled by the level of rudeness received from the VW Customer Service Department.

  • Manual + Diesel = Fun & 40mpg - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Want to drive 300mi on HALF a tank of fuel. Just go order one -- its worth the wait. Expensive? At 15000mi/yr the difference between 20mpg and 40mpg is $1500/yr ($125/mo). Oh, did I mention the German fit & finish and amazing handling? Worried about driving a diesel? If you drive a stick, dont be. Youll quickly learn to use and love having the maximum torque at 1900rpm instead of 5000 (like a Honda). We test drove an automatic, and it felt sluggish. But isnt $125/mo enough to learn to drive a stick?

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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