2007 Volkswagen Rabbit First Impressions (Video Clip)

* Click HERE to see a video on the Volkswagen Rabbit *


The return of the Bunny

Volkswagen Rabbit 2007 (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre, Auto123.com)

Mont Tremblant, Québec. 23 years after the Rabbit nameplate was dropped from Volkswagen's line-up, the Bunny makes a comeback. In the beautiful scenic Tremblant Village, the VW crew introduced us to what is in fact the mk5 Golf. As many know, the Golf and Jetta have always had much in common and this remains true for the all-new cars. For the 2007 model year, the Rabbit will be offered as a 3-door and 5-door hatchback, in only one trim level but with a number of option packages that include alloy wheels, a sunroof and stability control. Standard features abound and encompass 6 air bags, ABS brakes, A/C, cruise control and basic power accessories.

At arrival time into dealerships, the Rabbit will be available with only one engine (compared to nine in the UK) and it will be the 2.5L inline 5-cylinder (not offered in the UK) which generates 150 hp and 170 lb/ft of torque. Transmission choices reside between a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed

Volkswagen Rabbit 2007 (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre, Auto123.com)

automatic. The famous TDi has been put off for a while in both the Jetta and Rabbit for 2007. It is scheduled to return with the 2008 Jetta but no commitment has been made to Rabbit buyers.

Where the drive is concerned, the Rabbit behaves much like its Jetta twin.  The responsive chassis backs you up regardless of what you toss the car into.  The ride is comfortable, quiet and surefooted.  The whole of the experience behind the wheel is that of a cosseting and involving daily driver.

As far as an explanation for reviving the Rabbit name, Volkswagen says that it evokes memories for many people, especially for fans of the brand and that it allows for very creative marketing. From what I and many others have heard, it probably has more to do with VW offering bare-bones mk4 Golf at a rock-bottom price to attract more first-time buyers however nothing has been confirmed at the moment.

The 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit's pricing starts at $19,990 for the 3-door and at $20,990 for the 5-door.