2008 Volkswagen Rabbit [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 36 Rabbit reviews and test drives.
Volkswagen Rabbit - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit ranks 7 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 36 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Rabbit, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Rabbit delivers good performance and a well-equipped interior at an affordable price.
Gaining speed where the now defunct Volkswagen Golf left off, the 2008 Rabbit is a solid performing, fun-to-drive car at an affordable price, complete with a wide array of standard amenities. Reviews describe hatch as a quirky alternative to a class-leading Honda Civic, and say the Rabbit's power and utility make it a worthy contender for one of the top slots in the class. In fact, Forbes recently listed the Rabbit as one of the best cars for families, "with enough trunk space to accomodate soccer gear and groceries." However, the Rabbit's solid power results in less-than-savory gas mileage.
The 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit is available as either a two-door or as a four-door hatchback. Both models utilize a 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine with your choice of a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2008, the Rabbit has added a new trim, the Rabbit S, and 20 additional horsepower to its engine.
- "We liked the Rabbit enough to place it at the top of a recent compact-car battle where it slew such notable contenders as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla." -- Car and Driver
- "I'm in love with this Volkswagen for its handsome styling, its practical design, its build quality, and because it is genuinely fun to drive." -- About.com
- "The Rabbit is a quick and perky vehicle with enough power to make it fun to drive." -- New Car Test Drive
- In its 2007 review of the re-instated Rabbit, AutoWeek reports, "The revival of the Rabbit name brings numerous upshots for VW, from striking a chord with fans of the original and opening endless marketing opportunities to lure young customers to the brand. But aside from the news of the name change, the most important thing is that the Rabbit is a promising all-new car." -- AutoWeek
- "While the Rabbit is fun to drive, its sheer practicality should win over those who just want a safe, very efficiently designed auto." -- Chicago Sun-Times
- "When we go small, the Rabbit is bound to be at the top of our shopping list. We won't even mind if they stick a rabbit's foot on the key chain, either." -- Detroit News
Rabbit Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit's solid performance score is due to its 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, which provides drivers with a substantial amount of power that matches up nicely with its easy handling capabilities. Continue with our full Performance Review for reviewers' analysis of the dynamic difference between the Rabbit's five-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions. continue
Rabbit Exterior - 7.8 (Good)
The 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit's considerable visual appeal earns positive reviews. Road and Track calls the fit and finish "distinctly VW; that means good, just not great. But for the money, there are few that compare." Check out the VW Rabbit Photo Gallery to view the hatch's most distinctive design traits, or continue with our full Exterior Review for information on the various trim differences. continue
Rabbit Interior - 8.5 (Very Good)
The Rabbit's high interior score slots it at the top of a large class of compact vehicles. Reviews reveal the Rabbit's strong points are comfortable seating for five, ample cargo space, and durable materials. About.com adds "the driving compartment is spacious and light, with good sightlines to aid forward visibility." Check out the VW Rabbit Photo Gallery for a better idea of the cabin's dimensions and amenities, or continue with our full Interior Review to read why reviews say the Rabbit's cargo features are some of the best in class. continue
Rabbit Safety - 8.7 (Very Good)
The 2008 Rabbit receives good reviews on its safety features, and the hatchback receives solid safety ratings in government and insurance industry crash tests. Continue with our full Safety Review to find out more about the Rabbit's safety features. continue
Rabbit Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Rabbit is supported by a four-year/50,000 mile new-vehicle limited warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review for information on Volkswagen's additional 24-hour roadside assistance program. continue
