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 71 through 80 of 566.00
  • Perfect car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Everything in and outside of this car is exceptional! I would tell anyone to buy this car.

  • My pretty black car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Gotta love that German engineering. Very comfortable car with everything in the right spot. Pretty dang quick also, can feel the extra thirty horsepower from the 01 Wolfsburg to the 03. Great car.

  • 2003 VW Jetta GLS TDI 5-Speed - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Volkswagens DTI Jetts is better than a Hybrid any day!

  • Car Rocks!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have read all the previous customer reviews, and I am just appalled that a car of this caliber can receive so much negative criticism. Maybe these people just are unhappy with their lives and nothing will ever be good enough for them. If this car is so horrible why dont you just go buy a $250K Ferrari or something. Bottom line, this car rocks!!! Anyone who says otherwise knows not what they do. Also another key ingredient for a pleasant experience for car ownership has to be the dealer in which it is purchased. I feel much better now. VW keep up the excellent work!!!

  • Have almost 60,000 miles and am still loving it - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had my vehicle for over two years and it is a workhorse. I havent had any trouble finding diesel gas and even thought it is 10 cents a gallon more I get about twice the gas mileage. We took it from Chicago to Niagra Falls and on to New York City on only 1 and 1/2 tanks of gas. It gets a whopping 44 miles per gallon on the open road. We do all our own maintenance but have never had to do anything else. Even the tires have lasted.

  • So far so good - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had my Jetta since January, and the only problems I had were a Monsoon stereo that just quit working and was replaced, and floor mat clips that break too easily. Mechanically the car seems to feel better with each passing mile. It is very comfortable and very smooth.

  • I loved my car, but it was unreliable. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I got a jetta turbo. the timing belt blew, then the tranny went out. i sold it cheap and bought a bug. I loved the jetta. I would buy another one, but i fell in love with the bug. make sure you check the history with any foreign car. especially make sure the timing belt was changed before you bought it and that the oil has been changed regularly. And dont let the VW dealer lie to you and steal your money.

  • A year under our belt - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    We love our Jetta. We even settled for the 2.0 as a 1.8T was not to be found. Handling is sharp with a nice tight turning radius. This wagon zips in and out of parking lots with ease. Great visability. This wagon is designed for the real world. I bought it for my wife but the reality is I cant wait to steal her car. Never a problem...

  • Door/Window Rattles? Look Here! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    For those of you with Window/ and Door rattles. The solution is to lubricate the door seals on the car itself.Even if you think this cannot possibly be the source of your rattles try this anyway. The best stuff to use for this is a product called Gumipledge(Sp?) It is sold by BMW dealers for about $8. They have the same issue with there cars. Lube up all the door seals and any rubber on the doors themselves. Be sure to get some on the top rubber door seal that runs along the top of the car. In addition spray white lithium grease in your door locks and hinges I guarantee this will work for many of you and your car will be rattle free. Good Luck!!!

  • Love that Turbo! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I switched to Volkswagen after driving Hondas and was a little nervous about reliability. Ater 2 years and 25,000 miles, no problems whatsoever! I love the turbo power and styling of the car. Much more fun to drive than a Honda!

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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