2008 Volkswagen Rabbit Review
The Rabbit is a compact hatchback that debuted in 1975. It’s name changed to Golf when the second generation came to America in 1985. The latest generation Golf debuted as the Rabbit in 2006, though it’s still sold as the Golf in the rest of the world.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The new Volkswagen Rabbit is their best model in years. Tight handling, a roomy interior, and a long list of standard features makes this a tough contender to beat in its price range. It seems to just do most things right, although it’s tuned to lean more towards ride comfort than in years past. But after over 30 years of production, the Rabbit is showing no signs of slowing down.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Rabbit 2.5 stars for mechanical and design quality, and 3.5 stars for performance. Problems with the last generation included stuck clutches, engine noise, rough idling, hard starting and cornering noise. It was recalled three times. Problems with the current generation include smelly air conditioners, separating windows, poor audio quality and airbag warning light issues. It was recalled once due to incorrectly installed brake light switches. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The four-door model earned 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 5 stars in side tests. It earned “Good” IIHS scores for the front and side, but “Marginal” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, traction control, and full side airbags are standard. Stability control and rear side airbags are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Roomy
+ Fantastic handling
+ Quality construction
Cons
– Limited availability
– Exterior is a bit bland
– Diesel option hasn’t returned yet
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Mazda MAZDA 3 costs a couple of thousand more, but lacks traction control and some cargo space. The Subaru Impreza 2.5i includes standard AWD, but costs over a grand more, lacks traction control and has less cargo space. The Ford Fusion costs a couple grand more, and lacks ABS and traction control.
What Others Are Saying:
“There’s a lot to like about Volkswagen’s bread and butter hatchback- if only American consumers could get one to like. This year, VW’s bringing in around 19k cars for a 50k market (at the least). The ratio of supply to demand will certainly please owners lucky enough to secure their pet Rabbit, what with used examples commanding a relatively stiff price, but disappointed VW customers will be, well, disappointed.” – The Truth About Cars
“Whether or not you like the resurrected name, you can relax knowing that the new Rabbit offers sophisticated driving dynamics and interior quality that is usually lacking at this price point.” – Automobile Magazine
“…it’s no “econobox,” it’s a small-on-the-outside, large-inside car with the comfort, road manners, and performance of a car a class or two above and a distinctive character.” – The Auto Channel
Read more about the 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit at the Volkswagen manufacturer web site.
