For some reason the Volkswagen Rabbit (called the Golf in Europe) has never attained the popularity in America of, say, the MAZDA3, even though it packs a lot more power and its German engineering delivers a nimble and fun drive. Though not particularly inexpensive for its size (but comparable to most compacts in its segment), the 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit does offer a long list of standard features and high-quality materials inside and out.
For 2009, both two-door and four-door versions now come equipped with standard stability control, and the 5-speed manual is no longer offered for four-doors. Hitting the road with 170 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque, the 2.5-liter inline-five engine provides plenty of acceleration performance, making it one of the most powerful compact hatchbacks on the market. The downside? Less than stellar fuel economy, at 22/29 mpg. The engine can be configured as a PZEV (partial zero emissions) for California. The two-door comes with either a 5-speed manual or optional 6-speed Tiptronic automatic with manual mode, while the four-door comes standard only with the 6-speed.
The 2009 Rabbit earns four and five stars in crash tests and a Good rating from the IIHS, thanks to standard traction and stability control, ABS brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, and dual front and front-side airbags with passenger cutoff and rollover sensors. Rear side curtain airbags are optional for the four-door only. Quality German engineering provides a stable yet agile ride, with responsive steering and acceleration.
The two-door trim comes well equipped, with power features, remote entry, cruise control, 15-inch wheels, and a 10-speaker sound system with CD/MP3 player. The four-door adds a 2-way power driver's seat, upgraded velour upholstery, larger 16-inch wheels, heated front seats, and a 6-CD changer with satellite radio. The heated seats are optional for the two-door, and other options include an iPod adapter, which one consumer complains does not work with all MP3 players. The four-door also offers front and rear fold-down armrests.
The Rabbit's roomy interior features quality materials that avoid the cheap plastic look of many compacts. Rear seats split-fold 60/40, expanding the spacious 15-cubic-foot cargo space to 46 cubic feet. Tiedowns and an organizer are included, with the four-door adding a cargo cover. With its significant power boost over other compacts, flexible cargo and seating arrangement, and agile handling, it's easy to see why the 2009 Rabbit (Golf) is the second most popular car in Europe. Why it has yet to make a mark in the U.S. remains a mystery, although a minor but important update for the 2009 European version will not reach the U.S. until 2010.
