Overview & Reviews
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.
- Cute yet classic styling, range of engine choices, long list of standard features, good crash test scores.
- Tight rear-seat accommodations, limited cargo room, high price of Turbo S model.
User Reviews:
Showing 1 through 10 of 204.00-
Is it a Lemon? - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
By Chel - December 8 - 7:46 amI bought this car used with only 20,000 miles on it. My first car was the old VW, and ever since they came out with the new models I always wanted one. In the 13,000 miles I have put on it in one year, I have taken it to the shop 10 times. The manufacturers warranty has now run out (not due to mileage, but to age) and now I have to use the extended warranty I purchased from Carmax. But they dont know how to fix VWs so I must pay extra to take it to a dealer! (I was never informed of this!) I have had electrical problems with the windows, top problems where it wouldnt go up or come down at times, overheating problems (3 times!), now I am finished! I am trading in this car tomorrow!
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New Rag Top - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
By Beth 66 - November 28 - 10:00 amGreat car, fun to drive, lots and lots of looks from other jealous drivers. The top is very easy to put up and down and does not leak!
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Still The Best $ for $ - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
By William H Morris - November 28 - 10:00 amDependable, all around enjoyable vehicle to drive. Power to spare. Very comfortable for small car.
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I love my bug! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
By GreyLear26 - November 28 - 10:00 amI love my bug convertible! It is a great little car. It is fun to drive, pretty economical considering fuel cost. I just love it. I look forward to it getting cooler here in Phoenix, so it will be more conformable to drive with the top down.
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It a GREAT car - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
By Cricket Loftin - November 28 - 10:00 amI have had my "bug" for only about 5 months it is the best car i have ever had.I am only 18 but it will last me a lifetime. I would never give it up. I trust it.
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LEMON - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
By zozo - November 28 - 10:00 amI had my car 4 days and I had to take it back (Car was brand new, it had 3 miles when I picked it up) Anyway the dealership ended up making my 1st car payment because they had it a month. The car had to have its breaks replaced and the sensor panel replaced (IN A BRAND NEW CAR), and the window kept coming off track and the car was taken back 4 more times due to the breaks.
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Beetle Review - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
By PilotRicky - November 28 - 10:00 amFun to drive. Still gets smiles. Two airbags replaced already. One time check engine light kept coming on...was some module problem. Front turn signals have repeatedly messed up, (started blinking way too fast), dealer has never resolved the problem. Well built car, lots of fun. Needs the VR6 engine and all wheel drive to make it what I really want.
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Its has a few faults but its about LOVE! - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
By Beetleboy - November 28 - 10:00 amI have owned my aquarius blue convertible for 5 months now. I love the car. It is fun to drive, people notice you, young and old love this car. I had problems with my air bag light that wont go off and windows that will not go back up under the convertible top. It has been to the service dept several times for these problems. They are happening less frequent now. My dealership and service advisor have been great. They bend over backwards to please me. I finally broke the 30 mpg barrier after 4500 miles.These are little problems people have. This car is great to drive!! Oh, by the way, this is my 3rd VW and I will continue to buy them.
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very happy beetle owners - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
By cybergreen - November 28 - 10:00 amIf you are going to buy a beetle, we recommend the diesel. Its worth the extra money! The reliability is worth it! The fuel is cheaper and we get 800 miles to a tank on a road trip. They are a bit more expensive to maintain, but in the long run you will get many, many more miles on your engine! The TDI resale value is fabulous. We are very happy with ours. Buy it to keep it for a long, happy driving experience.
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Hate It - 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
By Dont buy a bug - November 28 - 10:00 amI have had more problems with this car than I had with my prior car that I had for 7 years. I have had the dashboard replaced twice, the stereo replaced 4 times, the keys replaced once. Also 2x in the last year the car didnt start, for no reason. Then when it did it, the entire dashboard was lit up, hence the 2x replacing the dashboard.
