The Volkswagen Golf hatchback was available in two basic trim packages for 2003. The Golf GL came in either a two-door or a four-door version, with either a 115-hp, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gas engine or a 90-hp, 1.9-liter diesel engine with the TDI (turbo direct injection) feature. The four-door, higher-end Golf GLS, meanwhile, was available with the same two engines. A five-speed manual transmission was standard equipment, while a four-speed automatic was optional.

The big news for 2003 was that both the GL and the GLS came with expanded lists of standard features. The GL received power windows, a CD player, and cruise control as added standard equipment for the model year. Air conditioning, power door locks, dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, and a tilt/telescopic steering column were some of the other features available on the GL. The GLS received a power sunroof as standard equipment for the first time.

Drivers seemed to most appreciate the "fun" factor associated with the Golf, and also cited its value, handling, peppy power, and safety features as positive points. On the downside, reliability and quality-control issues were noted by some drivers.