2003 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf: Road Test
2003 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf ▼
- MSRP: $15,295 - $26,940
- Invoice: $14,270 - $24,580
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Our road test for the 2003 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf help you decide if a 2003 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 6 | 3 | 5 | 4 |
Base 2.0 engine lacks power in the 35-55-mph range. Better overall choice is lively 1.8T, though turbo-lag power delay annoys around town, especially with automatic transmission. Test 1.8T Jetta sedan with manual transmission did 7.9 sec 0-60 mph. V6 models feel stronger at midrange speeds than 1.8Ts, and are slightly quicker overall; expect about 7 sec 0-60. Turbodiesel a fine cruiser with surprisingly good punch around town.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
In manual-transmission test cars: Golf 2.0 averaged 25 mpg, Jetta wagon 2.0 25.8, Jetta 1.8T 24.7, Golf GTI VR6 21.6-23.5, Golf TDI a miserly 41.5 mpg. Test automatic-transmission Jetta GLS 1.8T averaged 26.9 mpg. VW recommends premium-grade fuel for V6 and 1.8T.
RIDE QUALITY
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 6 | 5 | 4.4 |
Best overall in the subcompact class--with standard suspensions and tires. Firm but absorbent on V6s; softer but controlled on others. Sport suspension in combination with 17-inch wheels and tires turns ride jittery on patchy pavement.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 5.3 |
All models are nimble and feel sporty. V6s handle best, though with more cornering lean than ideal. Sport suspension and 17-inch wheels pay dividends with sharper steering response, terrific smooth-road grip. Have not yet tested a model with the antiskid system, which is a rare find in the subcompact class. So are standard antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, which provide short, stable emergency stops.
QUIETNESS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 3.7 |
One of the more refined subcompacts. TDIs suffer some diesel clatter at idle and are a bit gruff above 65 mph, but other engines sound nice and don't intrude much. Jetta sedans isolate wind and tire noise better than wagons or hatchback Golfs, but all suffer more audible road roar with 17-inch tires.
CONTROLS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Mostly clear and well-arranged, though low-mounted audio and climate controls not always easy to adjust while driving. Lighted lock and window switches an unexpected small-car nicety. Sophisticated cabin materials set the class standard.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.8 |
Above-average head, leg room even with sunroof. Firm, supportive seats have easy-to-use height adjusters but tedious backrest recliners. Standard tilt/telescope steering wheel also helps tailor driving position. Easy outward vision except dead astern in sedans.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
OK head room for two 6-footers, but leg room tight unless front seats set well forward. Entry/exit a squeeze on 2 doors, somewhat better on 4 doors.
CARGO ROOM
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3 | 6 | 3.8 |
Sedan's trunk large for a subcompact. Wagon tops all class rivals for cargo volume. Golfs are hatchback versatile. All models have split folding rear seats and low load sills.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 5.4 |
These VWs are rather pricey for the class, so they're not quite Best Buys. But availability of the V6, turbodiesel, and linewide antiskid system are unique class assets. Plus, all models are well-equipped, well-built, and satisfying to drive. And resale value is strong.
Total Score
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta GLS 1.8T wgn w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 59 | 57 | 56 | 59 | 47.2 |
Total Score: 59
Scores for all Compact Cars
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