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 41 through 50 of 566.00
  • Excellent - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Maybe it was well taken care of before I got to it, but it never gave me any problems with my Jetta. The ride was smooth, and the fell, was awesome. The only reason I am trying to get rid of it, is because it is reaching the hi-speed depreciation mileage.

  • diesel jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    great gas mileage, handles well, comfortable, dependable, surprising power and acceleration with the 5- speed.

  • My Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The V6 in this car is amazing, it picks up and goes so fast. I just cant say enough good things about this car- driving, handling, comfort, and the very tiny blindspot. The changed the body style for 2005, I must say that this style is, in my opinion, the best. All in all, its great.

  • Sweet! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I had a TDi Jetta and had to get rid of it. Opted for the TDi wagon to replace it. The additional space is perfect and the mileage is still EXCELLENT! I drive a manual and get about 43/48 (I have yet to do a trip that is ENTIRELY highway, though...cant seem to find a destination far enough away!) I would definitely recommend this car!

  • Awesome - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car is amazing. But, dont let the beauty of this car fool you. I just recently purchased it used and already have to replace the catalyst converter($380) cause of the fuel fumes I smell in the cabin of the Jetta. Well i did buy the car used with 122,00+ miles on it, these things are bound to happen. Also, the Monsoon radio has just shut off. If that happens just take fuse #42 out for thirty seconds and let the static electricity calm down. other than that this car is Amazing! The power of this vehicle is amazing.

  • Volkswagen GLS TDI - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love it very much

  • i love my GLI - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have a 2003 Jetta GLI and i love it. no one expected my car to be fast because it is vw and o boy where they wrong. i took the limiter of the car and have gone up to 150mph... Great car and a lot of fun. the only thing that i dont like is that the car needs more power. It has 200 hp but i will have it turoed by the end of the year and will be putting down 475hp at the wheels. I would say that it is a great car because i have been in an accident in my old Jetta were it rolled end over end and i had only a broken finger because my hand hit the roof so other then that it is a great car.

  • Love It or Hate It - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    After changing the 15 inch rims and tires with 17 inch all season performance Falken tires, this car can corner fast and not miss a beat. It has incredible handling, even without the sport suspension. It could use a little more power, but then again if it had more power God knows if it would stay on the road. I wish would have gotten the GLI VRS or GLS 1.8T. After 4 years though Im going for the EOS in May 2007.

  • My Lovely Jetta Wagon - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My father told me VW was the Nazis revenge, but I disagree. I have had my 2003 since september 2003 and have put 29,000 miles on it so far. Gas mileage is great - I drive 60+ miles a day and I love it. It has been in the shop 2 times for minor warranty work (rear wiper pump never worked, and brake rotors were warped from factory?). I recently took it into my dealer for a 20,000 mile check up and they replaced the computer, fuel throttle and fuel pump due to a major malfunction. Each time my dealer has given me a loaner free of charge and they have taken care of the problem quickly. I will by a VW again. I LOVE MY CAR!!!

  • A contradiction - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I fell in love with the Jetta 1.8T when I first drove it. After owning one for several months now, I am no longer in love. While the Jetta performs well and is still fun to drive, the quality of the car is just awful. There are creaks and rattles galore. The front rotors needed to be re-machined after 1000 miles. The stereo was wired incorrectly and one of the speakers was blown. One of the air conditioner vents fell off. After driving a problem-free Nissan, this just makes me mad. Dont be fooled by the test drive: this is not a high quality car. Search some discussion boards and VW enthusiast sites and youll see what I mean.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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