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 31 through 40 of 566.00
  • TDI: More Than Just Economy - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had my 5spd TDI for 3 mos. Im averaging 49 mpg. Acceleration is more than adequate for SoCal freeways. The ride and handling are not as refined as my 96 Audi A$ quattro, but they beat anything remotely comparable in price from the US or Japan. Much better feeling of connectedness with the road than domestic or Japanese products. VW has a real sleeper here.

  • Beautiful Nightmare - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    A black Jetta was my dream car. Thank god I leased it because at 200 miles the car began to fall apart. Brake light switch went twice in one week and the car would not get out of park, window dropped down in a snowstorm and after being replaced 3 times it still leaks, computer shorted out and the whole car went dead, sunroof leaks, CD player broke, transmission bucks and VW doesnt know what is wrong with it, factory tires were awful and the car would slide in a dusting of snow, and I made a left hand turn and the front axle broke. Dont but this car without a warranty because you will be livid when u pay the price for german parts!

  • Disappointing - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car without doing my research. I wish I had, it had problems from the moment I bought it. First the brake light switch, then water pump, now crazy electrical issues no one can figure out. Its very unreliable, and Ive taken it to 4 different mechanics and handed the key handed back to me saying they have no idea whats wrong with it. Im in college, so I had to downgrade to an older Toyota. It makes me sad, I loved my Jetta, but I would absolutely not recommend it to anyone. In fact, I vehemently advise all people I know considering a V-Dub, and anyone reading this, LOOK ELSEWHERE! Ive heard a overwhelming number of similar stories, and wish I had done better research.

  • I still cant believe this car is mine! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Its like my own personal luxury german car... hell, its not LIKE it, it IS it. Its awesome. The 1.8t is glorious, and the car is feature rich. A car enthusiasts dream.

  • Jetta TDI - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Great car if you drive a lot and dont want to pay a lot for fuel. Still performs well and is fun to drive.

  • Dont buy a Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had the car for 2 years and have 70,000 mile, 3000 mile oil changes with synthetic etc., the car has been maintained meticulously and its continues to be in and out of the shop for days at a time. The fit and finish is terrible, wind noise (migrating weather striping), window falling down in the doors, tail lights blowing, sunroof breaking, and now the transmission appears to be on its way out. Keep away!

  • You gotta go with Turbo yo! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Must get turbo! Upgraded mine an a few other things. Although the good parts arent cheap, ya get what chall pay for. Make sure you have knowledge of the car or someone else does. So as long as its taken care of youll have one of the baddest rides on the road guaranteed!

  • Nickel and Dime problems - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Car is fun to drive, and looks very nice. At about 12K miles, I had the windows fixed (three times), things began to fall apart inside soon after. The seat height adjustment handle broke, the power mirrors quit working, and the gas tank opener switch fell inside the door. Fun car, but lots of small problems....I traded it yesterday for a 2003 Civic.

  • TDI - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Great car that averages close to 50 mpg. Could be easier to work on simply things like headlights.

  • More trouble then its worth - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Since I have had the car we have had to replace the water pump, put a new turbo in, thermostat, replace the timing belt (but that is standard maintenance), put 4 new coils in, replace one brake bec it was sparking, and this is all in a year and a half and around 80,000 miles. I have been in and out of VW so much they know me by my first name. Not to mention the money we have had to shell out for. I have had my car towed three times this year to VW. When its not in the shop, its a blast to drive but its not worth the money.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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