CarGurus Header

2003 Volkswagen Passat Reviews, Pricing & Specs

Write a review

$22,325 to $39,275

Original MSRP

--

expert review

4.5

avg user rating

(24 reviews)
2003 Volkswagen Passat Preview summaryImage

Volkswagen widened its Passat lineup again in 2003 with the addition of the GL entry-level trim package. It joined the GLS, GLX, and W8 trim levels in the Passat lineup.

The Passat GL came with a 1.8-liter, 170-hp 4-cylinder engine, a five-speed manual overdrive transmission (a five-speed automatic was optional), and a stripped-down list of standard features that included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, anti-lock brakes, and traction control.

The GLS trim package included the same features and added a sunroof and alloy wheels, among other equipment. It was available with either the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder or a 2.8-liter, 190-hp V6 engine.

The GLX, available only with the V6, added leather seats (powered in the front) to the list of standard features. And the Passat W8, introduced a year earlier, came with a 4.0-liter, 270-hp 8-cylinder engine and an extenstive list of standard features, including a five-speed automatic transmission with the Tiptronic manual shift feature (a six-speed automatic was available as an option) and a stability control system, as well as all the features included with the GLX and GLS.

Overall, drivers' opinions of the Passat seemed to have improved when compared to previous years, with many drivers recommending the car. Drivers especially liked the Passat's power, roominess, interior appointments, and even its price. Some drivers, however, still noted quality-control problems with the car.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
Sometimes our content pages are the result of a team effort. As with all CarGurus editorial, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 2003 Volkswagen Passat

Write a review
User rating:
by clem k
Nov 12, 2014
The passat with a 1.8 Turbo Handles like a dream. Not quite a cutting diamond kind of ride. Never lose the key will cost $200.00 bucks to replace. Must burn high test to keep the turbo running. Also needs synthitic oil. Oh well costs a few more bucks to keep running but worth it for the smooth ride. And sleek look.Nov 12, 2014
by Anonymous
Jun 07, 2014
A great car for Colorado weather. It takes on rain, snow, sleet, hail and everything in between and delivers the goods. With good mileage this car was just right for my family. We would definately recommend the Passat to others.Jun 07, 2014
by Anonymous
Aug 28, 2013
I like all the thought and knowledge that went into making this car a true technological marvel of it's day The all wheel drive system performs seamlessly , always reining the car in under slippery conditions . The 270 HP 4.0 W-8 motor really delivers the power. All around safe car!Aug 28, 2013

2003 Volkswagen Passat Pricing

Original MSRP
$22,325 to $39,275
Price range
N/A
Average price on CG
N/A
YoY price change
N/A

Trims & specs

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheels: steel

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Roof rack color: black

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheels: steel

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: wood

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: rain sensing

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: wood

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power folding

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: rain sensing

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: wood

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Drivetrain

Limited slip differential: center

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Drivetrain

Limited slip differential: center

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Drivetrain

Limited slip differential: center

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: HID

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power folding

Rear Seats

Type: bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Suspension

Front Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Spring Type: coil springs

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags

Audio System

Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Monsoon · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Drivetrain

Limited slip differential: center

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: HID

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather

Suspension

Front Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Spring Type: coil springs

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

See all trims (12)
CarGurus Footer