2003 VW Jetta GLI
07/13/2003
Shahed Hussain
The Jetta is one of VW's best-selling models, and easily outsells the more utilitarian Golf, which shares the same platform. Part of the reason for its popularity is that the Jetta is available in various models that appeal to a wide-ranging customer base. A high-quality interior that is the benchmark in its class helps justify the Jetta's premium pricing.
Interior
* Form fitting leather sport seats. Narrow butts required for comfort.
* Rear seats lack legroom for adults. Extended trips not recommended.
* Manual seat adjustments are surprising in this price class. The seat controls knobs and levers are tedious to operate.
* Excellent trim fits.
* Eye-catching blue backlit instrument & red dial indicators.
* Monsoon CD stereo has excellent bass response, and overall pleasing sound reproduction. The amplifier has enough power for high volume listening.
Exterior
* Sporty understated rear wing.
* Stainless steel dual exhaust tips.
* 17 in x 7 in, 5-spoke alloy wheels.
* 225/45R17 Michelin Pilot Sport HX MXM4 tires.
* Dark blue metallic (Galactic Blue).
* Overall exterior styling gives no hint of performance potential. The Jetta GLI could be mistaken for a base 2.0L Jetta GL, except for the rear GLI badge.
Engine
* Excellent low-end torque.
* Smooth and linear power delivery.
* Very quiet below 4000 rpm.
* Sporty burble above 4000 rpm.
* Low vibration at all RPM.
Transmission
* Gear lever has remote feel.
* Positive, but notchy shift quality.
* 6-speed manual is unusual in price range.
* Close ratios are ideal for acceleration & power delivery.
* 6th gear could be taller to reduce highway RPM. Engine has enough torque to support taller gear ratio.
* Light, progressive clutch.
Ride & Handling
* Spring & damper rates are biased towards comfort.
* Full throttle acceleration results in considerable rear suspension squat.
* Heavy braking causes significant suspension dive.
* Steering feels numb, with minimal road feedback.
* Hard cornering causes significant body roll.
* Short wheelbase and soft suspension result in pitching over poor road surfaces.
* Firmer spring and dampers rates, combined with stiffer anti-roll bars would allow the suspension to better cope with the 200-bhp engine.
* The Michelin Pilot Sport all-season tires offer a good compromise of handling and comfort. However, enthusiasts would be better served with more aggressive tires.
Pros
* VR6 engine is flexible and powerful
* 6-speed manual maximizes acceleration
* Impeccable interior styling and materials
Cons
* More expensive than its competitors
* No power seats
* Suspension tuning too soft for sporty handling
The Jetta GLI combines surprising performance in a compact package. Attractive interior and exterior styling ensures that potential owners need make no apologies to justify their purchase. However, for the same price of the Jetta GLI, a buyer can get a Passat GLS, or V-6 versions of the Accord or Camry. This makes the Jetta GLI difficult to justify for most customers.
