What: The current VW Rabbit, with a new name and an optional diesel engine 

When: Available fall 2009 

Price: Unknown, but the 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit sells for less than $20,000


New for 2010 

If you're loyal to the VW brand, you're probably familiar with the Volkswagen Golf's history. Alternately known as the VW Rabbit, this sporty hatchback has been around since 1974. The most recent generation was launched as the Rabbit in 2007, but Volkswagen will revert back to the Golf name for 2010. Experts predict the most recent name change will come with a handful of mechanical and stylistic changes. 

Upon production, the 2010 Volkswagen Golf should be available as a two-door or four-door hatchback, with the same base five-cylinder engine currently sold in the Rabbit. However, an optional 140-horsepower diesel engine will be added to the lineup. 

What the Auto Press Says 

Other than showing slight confusion at the repeated name-switching, the automotive press is excited for the arrival of the re-vamped VW Golf. Reviewers especially look forward to testing the Golf with the same diesel engine that's earned such positive reviews in the Volkswagen Jetta. According to those lucky enough for a first peek, the 2010 Golf also features a better quality cabin and has more comfortable seating than the '09 Rabbit. Most recently, the Golf was named World Car of the Year at the New York Auto Show, due to its expensive quality and energetic engines.

Here is what the press has to say about the coming 2010 VW Golf: 

  • "Volkswagen's entry-level hatchback debuted in North America as the Rabbit, was rebranded as the Golf, re-branded as the Rabbit and now, apparently, it has been re-re-rebranded as the 2010 Volkswagen Golf. Farfugridiculous." -- Jalopnik
  • "In hindsight, the Golf MkV -- a.k.a Rabbit -- did not multiply quite as successfully as VW hoped three years ago, and in fact it will most likely go down in history as the shortest-lived generation of the model year. So it's no wonder VW has now decided in favor of another name change, ditching the Rabbit moniker for a second time." -- Car and Driver
  • "Though not completely redesigned, the Golf sports updated sheet metal and a new interior." -- KickingTires
  • "VW will add a diesel engine to the Golf this fall. The engine is the same one used in the Jetta -- a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder, 50-state diesel with 140 hp." -- Automotive News
  • "The interior has excellent fit, finish, and interior space that will likely be the leader of the class. Even tall drivers will find a comfortable driving position with front seats that are multi-adjustable and supportive. Additionally, all the controls are placed where they need to be and the sense of quality in the controls will not disappoint. " -- Washington Examiner
  • "How much, how soon? Expect the Golf to start around $16,500 when it goes on sale in August. ... How's it look? 'If it ain't broke' aptly describes VW's hold-steady approach to the Golf and GTI, already two of the market's most advanced small cars.

Key Details 

No concrete details have been released on the 2010 Golf, but more information should be available now that the car has been unveiled at the New York Auto Show. 

Stay tuned for more details on the 2010 Volkswagen Golf.