2003 VW Passat reviews and buying guide.
2003
VW Passat resources:
2003 VW Passat
The Passat lineup continues to expand – certainly a good thing
for fans of this classy sedan. After adding segment-defining
8-cylinder models during 2002, VW's midsize car gets
a new entry-level model for 2003. Slotting below the
GLS model as the entry-level Passat is a new GL trim
level, offering a good value and the trademark comfort
of The Passat ride. It joins the aforementioned GLS,
GLX and top-line W8 model.
The Passat sedan has four doors and seats five inside its modest
interior. If more room is required, prospective customers
can always take a look at The Passat Wagon, which offers
the same appealing features of the sedan with the flexibility
of increased cargo volume (The Passat Wagon is covered
in a separate review).
Under the Hood
The 2003 Passat takes the baton from last year’s model and
runs with it. Three engines accompany the strong lineup.
The first, on GL and GLS trims, is a 1.8-liter turbocharged
4-cylinder model with 170 horsepower. The second, also
offered with GLS models and GLX models, is a 2.8-liter
V6 engine capable of 190 horsepower. However, the W8
blows the rest of the pack away. It has an engine composed
of two V4 modules, resulting in an astonishing 270 horsepower.
W8s have an adaptive 5-speed automatic transmission withTiptronic
and automatic shift lock. All other models feature 5-speed
manual transmission, with automatic optional. VW’s advanced
4Motion all-wheel drive system is standard on W8s and
available on automatic-transmission GLX models. Other
Passat have front drive with standard traction control
for great handling capability. For safety, all Passat
have dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain
side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime
running lights and an emergency inside trunk release.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The interior of the 2003 Passat is both spacious and comfortable.
The new entry-level GL model has a standard features
list that includes air conditioning, power steering,
cruise control, cloth upholstery, height-adjustable
front bucket seats with lumbar adjustment, heated power
mirrors, power windows and door locks, remote keyless
entry, map lights, a trip computer, an outside-temperature
indicator, an AM/FM/cassette/CD player, a digital clock,
a tachometer and a rear defogger.GLXs and W8s come with
leather upholstery, heated front seats and walnut interior
trim.
The options list takes care of anything else owners might want
with their Passat. With style and sure-footed performance,
the confidence of The Passat always seems to seep into
its owners. And that is another very appealing feature.
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