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 81 through 90 of 566.00
  • Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I had some holdbacks in getting the VW due to misleading presumptions such as poor quality and such. I am happy to say that Ive had the car for about 8 months and have been unbelievably satisfied with its handling, interior and exterior design and most importantly reliability. This is definetly a well built and fun-to-drive car.

  • 2003 TDI wagon - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    A wonderful wagon, 5 speed, TDI, GLS, leather. Much better than I expected. So far 46-50 mpg in mixed driving. I expect over 50 on a trip.

  • Biggest mistake ever - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Great looking car and fun to drive when it is moving but this car has been a hassle from day one. Gone through 2 radios, the ignition coil problem that VW of AMerica has finanlly acknowledeged caused it to sit in the shop for 2.5 weeks one time and has broken down 4 more times.The computer, oxgen sensor, 2 other sensors have been replaced. The passenger side door sticks. The exhaust system was damaged while driving in the snow. Doesnt it snow in germany? All this under 17000 miles. Good looking vehicle but cheap parts and poor engineering make it big regret.

  • What a car!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    What a pleasure to return to VW. I had a 1995 Jetta and then a Ford and could not wait to return to VW. The new Jetta is fun and has everything you could ask for. The wagon is a nice family car.

  • My TDI Wagon sips gas and zips along - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had my car for about three weeks and have been delighted. With the manual, it has plenty of pep and is fun to drive. The mileage is awesome with the diesel, and this makes a big difference with fuel costs being so high now. The handling is great, and the ride is firm without being jarring. After eight years is a cushy and mushy Taurus, this car brings back the fun I had in my very first car, which was a stick shift Accord. The Jetta is also quite solid and can very quietly exceed the speed limit. 80 does not feel much different than 50. For utility, fun, and efficiency it is tough to beat this car.

  • 1.8T - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Purchased new in February 2002, since then it has left me stranded 3 times with a faulty ignition coil. There has finally been a recall on them, but it does nothing to restore my faith in the car. Nice car, poor reliability, first and last Volkswagen Ill ever buy.

  • Dont buy unless you love your mechanic! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car certified pre-owned. I have had two prior VWs. I knew parts were pricey, but since Ive owned this car, its been in for a variety of non-maintenance work! The catalytic converter was recalled and VW refused to fix it unless I paid $200 for a diagnostic test. The window brackets failed and the window fell into my door ($300) plus labor. The supposed great Monsoon stereo/CD player fails to work at times. The blinker stalk clicks at random. There is a constant squeaking when I drive over bumps that no mechanic can find the source of. My seat heat also just burned through the leather seats! And this is off the top of my head... just think long and hard before you buy!

  • VW Jetta TDI Wagon Review - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love the gas mileage on the TDI. It gets 35 mpg city & 45 mpg highway. My wife loves the heated seats. We got the cold weather package which is just great.

  • No Satisfied - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    WOW. I was really excited to get this new car, and at first the car was great. At 6000 miles the clutch died, shortly after that the gasket around the CV joint was leaking fluid, then the sunroof broke (Ive taken it in 3 times so far - rattles everytime you close the door or go over a bump still). Everytime I step on the clutch pedal is makes a rubber squeaking sound - all in all, Ive taken my car to the shop about 14 times now! Be warned - I think due to its popularity, they have sped up production time, and as a result quality has gone dramatically down. My sister has a 1998 jetta (previous design) and never had a problem. Think twice before you buy.

  • I regret buying my Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Upon initially purchasing my Jetta there were no problems. But by the winter, it started giving me problems and hasnt stopped since. The only major problem that I have encountered is that gear sticks. When I say stick I mean, will not shift into Reverse or Drive until it feels ready, which could be 5 or 65 minutes. Taken it to the dealership 7 times and they cant figure out what it but assume its the brake light switch. So they keep replacing that. I wouldnt recommend this vehicle to anyone unless you have a very good warranty.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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