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2003 Volkswagen Passat
Date Published: 10/07/08

2003 Volkswagen Passat
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MSRP:
$21,750 - 40,200

Invoice:
$19,790 - 36,706

Class:
Midsize Car

CG Award: (What's This?)
2003 Volkswagen Passat
Expert Rating Summary
Category GLS sdn, 4-cyl man. Rating (See All
Ratings)
Midsize Car Average Rating
Acceleration 5 5.2
Fuel Economy 6 5.3
Ride Quality 8 6.3
Steering/Handling/Braking 7 6.1
Quietness 6 5.5
Controls 7 6.5
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front) 7 5.9
Room/Comfort (rear) 6 4.4
Cargo Room 4 4.7
Value within Class 8 6.2
Total Score: 64 56.1
Ratings: Maximum 10 points per category
2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT BUYING RESOURCES
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2003 Volkswagen Passat Review
Volkswagen's largest cars get a new entry-level model for 2003, expand availability of antiskid control, and add manual-transmission versions of the top-line model at midyear. Slotting below the GLS as the entry-level Passat are new GL sedans and wagons. They have the same base prices and equipment (except fog lamps) as last year's GLS. Meanwhile, base prices of 2003 GLS models increase by about $1000 with the addition of a standard sunroof and alloy wheels. GL and GLS Passats share a 170-hp turbo 4-cyl engine. GLS V6 and GLX versions have a 190-hp V6. Top-line W8 models are named for their 270-hp 8-cyl engine composed of two V4 modules. VW's 4Motion all-wheel drive is standard for W8s and available on GLX models. Other Passats have front drive with standard traction control. A 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate is standard on 4Motion GLXs, optional elsewhere. A 5-speed manual is standard on other Passats except the W8, which added 6-speed-manual versions midyear; those with the 6 speed include the optional Sport Package, also added midyear. W8s come with an antiskid system that is a new option for other '03 models. Every Passat includes front side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
Competition
Perennial Best Buys Honda Accord and Toyota Camry continue to shine with refinement, model diversity, and comfort. Both offer economic 4-cylinder or sporty V6 power, have room for four adults, and are reasonably priced. Camry was new last year and Accord holds that honor this year.

Recommended models include the import-flavored Chevy Malibu, sporty Chrysler Sebring/Dodge Stratus twins, and the good-looking Pontiac Grand Prix. All come with V6 power, offer lots of standard equipment, and have pleasing road manners that will suit a variety of driving styles. Despite relatively high prices, the refined Volkswagen Passat is also Recommended. Sedan and wagon models are offered with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive and four-, six-, or class-exclusive eight-cylinder power. Budget-level interior materials and assembly disappointments aside, the Nissan Altima is Recommended for its impressive interior room, road manners, and reasonable price.
News
Passat sales were essentially flat in calendar 2002 vs. '01. This doubtless reflects general market jitters and more aggressive class competition from the fresher Toyota Camry and new-for-'03 Honda Accord.

Passat sales may or may not continue holding up, but word is that the current generation will run two more model years before a redesigned replacement takes over. Little is known about it now, but we wouldn't be surprised if the next Passat is even more like sister division Audi's upscale A6 in size, general appearance, and available features.

Before the redesign, VW may offer a very sporty version of today's top-line W8 sedan that's being rumored as the R40. Timing is unclear, but VW is said to be mulling R-version of most all its models, including the new Touraeg SUV (R50) and upcoming Phaeton luxury sedan (R60). The template for all is the Golf R32 hatchback that bows during '03. Like other R-models, the Passat would come with a firm suspension, big wheels and tires, larger exhausts, hip-hugging front seats, and other expected "hot car" accoutrements, including more power. It's not definite yet, but very likely, sources say. We'll keep you posted.
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