- 2009
2008 Volkswagen Rabbit
- Used Volkswagen Rabbit
Volkswagen Rabbit - What the Auto Press Says
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 the 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 small car 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. It ranks mid-pack compared to other hatchbacks.
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. Read More
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." Read More
Rabbit Interior - 8.5 (Very Good)
The Rabbit's high interior score slots it near the top of a large class of small 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." Read More
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. Read More
Rabbit Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
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. 2009 VW Rabbits have a three-year or 36,000 mile basic warranty. Click here for more information on the new Rabbit warranty. Read More
