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2003 Volkswagen Golf Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.17
Based on 12 Owner Reviews
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2003 Volkswagen Golf, a member of the fourth-generation (Mk4) Golf family, carries the torch of VW's renowned hatchback legacy. This model year offers practicality and European driving dynamics in a compact package. Available as a two-door or four-door hatchback, key trims include the GL, GLS, and GTI. New pricing ranged from approximately $15,000 to $20,000. Its popularity stems from its blend of fuel efficiency, sporty handling, and upscale interior compared to its rivals.
The Good

The 2003 Golf offers a blend of German engineering and practicality. Performance is respectable, particularly with the GTI's turbocharged engine. Its solid build quality contributes to decent reliability, while the comfortable interior and timeless design appeal to both emotion and logic. Fuel efficiency and good value for money further enhance its appeal.

The Bad

Common issues with the 2003 Golf include potential problems with the ignition coils, mass airflow sensor, and window regulators. Rust can also be a concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. Suspension components and the automatic transmission (if equipped) should be inspected carefully for wear and tear before purchasing.

2003 Volkswagen Golf: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.0L Inline-4 (GL, GLS): 115 hp
    • 1.8L Turbocharged Inline-4 (GTI): 180 hp
    • 1.9L TDI Diesel Inline-4: 90 hp
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.0L: 115 hp
    • 1.8T: 180 hp
    • 1.9L TDI: 90 hp
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • 2.0L: 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
    • 1.8T: 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
    • 1.9L TDI: 38 mpg city / 46 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • 2.0L: 10.5 seconds
    • 1.8T: 7.5 seconds
    • 1.9L TDI: 12 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
  • Trim Level Features:
    • GL: Base model, standard features include air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
    • GLS: Adds features like alloy wheels, upgraded cloth upholstery, and cruise control.
    • GTI: Sport-tuned suspension, sport seats, alloy wheels, and the more powerful 1.8T engine. Some models also included a sunroof and premium audio.

2003 Volkswagen Golf Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2003
Make Volkswagen
Model Golf
Trim -
Style -
Type Hatchback
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Brazil
Manufacturing City PALMELA
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.9 L 4-Cyl.
Engine Size 1.9L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2003 Volkswagen Golf Have?

The 2003 Volkswagen Golf, like other Mk4 Golfs, is known for certain recurring issues. Ignition coil failures are a common problem, often requiring replacement of all four coils. The mass airflow sensor (MAF) can also fail, leading to poor engine performance. Window regulators are notoriously prone to breaking, resulting in windows that won't stay up. Rust, especially around the fenders and rocker panels, is a concern, particularly in colder climates. Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, including rough shifting or complete failure, although this is more prevalent in higher-mileage examples. While there were some recalls related to safety items like airbags and emissions, it's important to check the specific VIN with the NHTSA to verify if a particular vehicle was affected and if the recall work was performed. Long-term reliability is generally average, but neglecting maintenance or ignoring warning signs can lead to more significant and costly repairs. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to identify potential problems.

How long will the 2003 Volkswagen Golf last?

With proper maintenance, a 2003 Volkswagen Golf can realistically provide well over 200,000 miles or 20+ years of service. However, reaching these milestones depends heavily on consistent maintenance. Timing belt replacements (especially on TDI engines), regular oil changes, and addressing issues promptly are crucial. Common weaknesses that emerge over time include worn suspension components, deteriorating rubber seals (leading to leaks), and potential electrical problems due to aging wiring. Rust remains a persistent threat, particularly in areas with road salt. Models with neglected maintenance tend to experience a steeper decline in reliability.
Positive Owner Reviews
Awesome
best year VW ever made was the 2003. recommend manual over automatic tranny. the GL is very quick and loaded with great power options
Negative Owner Reviews
disappointed
I bought this car for my wife in 2003, and currently we have 35,000 miles on it. Unfortunately we had to learn the hard way that Volkswagen is not a great "German Engineered" car. In fact my "American" 2000 Chevy Malibu is more reliable. The brake lights are constantly going out on the Golf. The transmission jumps between 20-40 mph (which the mechanic at the dealer says is normal). The Gear shifter malfunctioned leaving us stuck in a mall parking lot, and then reoccured later (the dealer can't "replicate", so they won't fix). Interior is very noisy especially on a rough road. The only good thing that I can say is there are a lot of nice creature comforts such as the heated seats, but overall this car is worthless.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2003 Volkswagen Golf's tech features were fairly basic by today's standards. Standard entertainment features typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player or, optionally, a CD player. More advanced audio systems were available as upgrades. Driver-assistance features were limited; anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, but more advanced features like traction control or stability control were often optional, even on higher trims like the GTI. Safety features included front airbags, and some models offered side airbags as an option.

Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) for the 2003 Golf are generally good for frontal offset crash tests but marginal for side-impact tests. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) ratings may vary depending on the specific test and model configuration. It's recommended to consult both IIHS and NHTSA websites for detailed crash-test data.

Compared to modern vehicles, the 2003 Golf lacks features like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation systems, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking. The absence of these technologies reflects the automotive landscape of the early 2000s. Optional features included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and leather upholstery on higher trims.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Magic Pearl
Reflex Silver Metallic
Indigo Blue Pearl
Uni Red
Wheat Beige Metallic
Jazz Blue Pearl
Bright Green Pearl
Arctic Blue Silver Metallic
Techno Blue Pearl
Interior Colors
Grey
Beige

2003 Volkswagen Golf Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2003 Volkswagen Golf ranged from approximately $15,000 for a base GL model to around $20,000 for a well-equipped GTI. Current used market prices vary widely depending on condition, mileage, and location. Expect to find examples ranging from $2,000 to $6,000 or more for exceptionally well-maintained GTIs.

The Golf depreciated significantly over the years. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition (rust-free examples command a premium), documented maintenance history, low mileage, and the desirability of specific trims (GTIs typically hold their value better). The presence of modifications can either increase or decrease value, depending on the quality and tastefulness of the modifications.

2003 Volkswagen Golf Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2003 Volkswagen Golf are generally moderate, as it's not considered a high-risk vehicle. Fuel costs depend on the engine; the TDI offers the best fuel economy, while the 1.8T is less efficient. Maintenance costs can be average to slightly above average due to the need for specialized parts and labor. Repair costs can be unpredictable, with potential for issues like ignition coils and window regulators. Overall, the 2003 Golf can be reasonably economical to own, especially if well-maintained, but unexpected repairs can increase long-term costs.

2003 Volkswagen Golf Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Diesel
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2003 Volkswagen Golf Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2003 Volkswagen Golf Recalls & Defects

Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
Recall date 2007-02-20
Recall no. 07v063000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Passenger, Wagon, and Convertible Vehicles Equipped With or Without Cruise Control, A Brake Light Switch MAY Malfunction IF IT WAS Installed Incorrectly.
Consequence THE Brake Lights Could Become Inoperative, or Remain ON. Failure TO Provide THE Proper Signal When Braking Could Lead TO A Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Dealers Will Install THE Newly Designed Brake Light Switch Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 27, 2007, and Will BE Conducted IN Several Staggered Mailings Through September 21, 2007. Vehicles Within THE Make, Model, and Model Year OF This Population MAY BE Involved IN Either This Recall or 06v-183, BUT NOT Both. THE Remedy IS THE Same FOR Each Recall. Volkswagen Dealers Will Apply THE Remedy Based ON THE VIN Number OF THE Vehicle. Owners MAY Contact VW AT 1-800-822-8987.
Notes Volkswagen Recall NO. N4.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date 2007-03-29
Recall no. 07e023000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Cardone Master Cylinders With Part Numbers 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987mza, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, and 11-3156, and With Date Codes Lower Than Dca7078 Sold AS Replacement Equipment FOR USE ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Seal ON Master Cylinder CAN Fail and Leak Brake Fluid.
Consequence Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Result IN Poor Braking Performance, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Cardone Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase ANY Defective Master Cylinders. THE Recall Began During April 2007. Owners CAN Contact Cardone AT 1-800-777-4780.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Cardone Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2009-04-07
Recall no. 09e012000
Source NHTSA
Summary Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2009-05-11
Recall no. 09e025000
Source NHTSA
Summary Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Recall date 2014-03-07
Recall no. 14e007000
Source NHTSA
Summary THE Gates Corporation (Gates) IS Recalling Certain Aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, Part Number TFW 41127, Sold AT Certain Napa Auto Parts And/Or Installed BY Automotive Service Technicians After November 1, 2013 (And Manufactured August 2013 Through October 2013) That Have A Black-Colored Pulley/Sprocket or DO NOT Have 'us9377' Stamped ON THE Water Pump Housing. These Service Replacement Parts Were Sold FOR USE IN Model Year 1999-2005 Audi A4, 2000-2006 Audi TT, 1998-2005 Volkswagen Beetle, 1999-2006 Golf, 1999-2008 and 2011-2013 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2000-2005 Volkswagen Passat. IN THE Affected Water Pumps, THE Pulley or Sprocket That Turns THE Timing Belt MAY Develop Microfractures Causing THE Timing Belt TO Fail.
Consequence A Failure OF THE Timing Belt MAY Cause THE Engine TO Shut Down, Potentially Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Gates Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Water Pump, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began During MAY 2014. Owners MAY Contact THE Gates Corporation AT 1-303-744-1911.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2018-06-13
Recall no. 18v406000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2003 Volkswagen Passat Sedan, Jetta, Jetta Wagon, Golf, Eurovan, Eurovan Camper Van and Eurovan Chassis Vehicles. Upon Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, Excessive Internal Pressure MAY Cause THE Inflator TO Explode.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Explode With Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 2, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 69x3.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2003 Volkswagen Golf Insurance

Insurance for a 2003 Volkswagen Golf is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2003 Volkswagen Golf Compare to Other Hatchback?

The 2003 Volkswagen Golf competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, and Ford Focus. In terms of performance, the GTI model offered a sportier driving experience than most of its rivals, while the standard Golf models were comparable to the Civic and Corolla. Features-wise, the Golf often offered a more upscale interior compared to the Civic and Focus but lacked some of the advanced features available in higher-end Corolla trims. Reliability is where the Golf sometimes fell short compared to the Corolla and Civic, which have reputations for exceptional dependability. Price-wise, the Golf was typically slightly more expensive than the Civic and Corolla.

Alternatives to the 2003 Golf include the Mazda 3, which offers a similar balance of sporty handling and practicality, and the Subaru Impreza, which provides all-wheel drive. If reliability is a top priority, the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla are generally better choices. For a similar blend of performance and features at a potentially lower price, the Ford Focus is worth considering. The Mazda Protege (predecessor to the Mazda 3) is another similar alternative.

Ranks #2024 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
2024 2003 Volkswagen Golf (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Volkswagen Golf a Good Hatchback?

The 2003 Volkswagen Golf is a decent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and somewhat sporty hatchback. It's ideal for individuals who appreciate European driving dynamics and a more refined interior than some of its competitors. Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on its condition and price. A well-maintained, rust-free example can offer years of reliable service. The GTI trim is desirable for its performance, but standard models offer better fuel economy. A pre-purchase inspection is crucial to identify potential issues. If reliability is paramount, alternatives like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla might be more suitable. Buying one that has a thorough service history is recommended.

2003 Volkswagen Golf Owner Reviews

4.17
Consumer Rating, Based on 12 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Kris on July 22, 2018

Reliable and fuel efficient

Reliable and fuel efficient, enough leg room in the front but much less in the second row. Only 90HP (1.9L TDI) but fast enough to keep up with the traffic.

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jalila on February 7, 2018

Fun to drive

I have enjoyed owning this car and it's been a great car for my son. It's easy to drive and holds up well.

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Lovethiscar on April 19, 2017

Great Car!

I have had this car for two years and love it! It gets great gas millage. I would recommend this car to anyone.

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showingog on April 6, 2017

2003 VW Golf GLS 2.0

The 2003 VW Golf GLS 2.0 is a 4-door car that has lasted me for a good amount of time with no problems!

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Diesel over Hybrid on April 21, 2014

2003 Golf GLS TDI

Bought this car used from the original owner with around 115,000 miles on it. So far I love this car and have had no issues with it aside from a glow plug that I needed to replace, which was simple and I was able to do it myself. I have a long commute to work and I average around 49-50 mpg, nearly all of my driving is freeway. The Good: Great gas mileage! Car drives great and feels tight. City Driving is simple and parking is easy thanks to its size. Very reliable car, I've heard bad things about the gas models but the TDI is very relaible. The Bad: -Car does not have a lot of horsepower, but this car was designed with fuel economy in mind not power. -Interior is small, I have trouble fitting my golf clubs in the trunk but I have driven the car with 4 adults and no complaints for short distances. I would definitely recommend this car to a friend, it's too bad there aren't more cars like this being built

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Diesel lover on September 24, 2012

best small car

Get 50 MPG, pulls my pop-up trailer, seats 4 comfortably, pushing 120,000 miles, and still runs like the day we bought it. That's reliability.

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Diesel Mania on February 13, 2012

VW Golf TDI

I've had this car since 2005 and it had 38k on it then so I've put about 220k in 7 years on this little thing. I really have loved it. The timing BELT is the only drawback. I think that is by far one of the most stupid designs especially for a small diesel with an interference head. Should be a chain or gear with or without the extra noise. The problems I did have all stemmed from that belt breaking and not many people (including the dealer) knowing what they are doing when working on it. It's really in a class by itself. I small commuter (over 40 mpg) with lots of hatch space and the ability to tow 1100

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WillieVR6 on January 2, 2012

Perfect Car for 16 year old's first car

Excellent first car for my 16 year old daughter. It's not to big and not to small in the 4 door model to get her and my son back and forth to school safely. Love the ergonomics of the car for the driver who has a clear view of the roadway ahead, and it stops quickly and safely with 4 wheel disc brakes, and abs too. The front and side curtain air bags provide peace of mind in case anything should happen. I put new snow tires on some old VW Passat Rims, and they fit perfect on the 2003 Golf so it's ready for whatever old man winter has instore for us. The VW Golf is the perfect fit for my Daughter to safely learn how to drive.

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Awesome on July 13, 2009

Most Reliable Car I've Owned

best year VW ever made was the 2003. recommend manual over automatic tranny. the GL is very quick and loaded with great power options

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Biker on February 18, 2007

Safest, reliable, solid car for the money!

I own a 4 Dr Hatchback and drive it every day. It is very solid, gets good gas mileage (29-31 mpg highway, and safe car (ABS, front and side air bags) No mechanical repairs, only consumables like oil and filters. This is my second Golf, gave my first to my daughter who drives it 20,000 miles a year. The sound system is great, especially with the 6 CD changer which is integrated into the radio. We usually have the rear seats folded down and so we have a lot of room for cargo.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.