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By Volkswagen Company
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Strengths: |
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Convenient hatchback design; standard safety equipment; the Rabbit's low price; the
GTI's performance, handling and fuel efficiency. |
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Changes: |
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Both the VW Rabbit and the sporty GTI model see few changes for 2009. The 4-door
Rabbit is available in automatic only, while the electronic stabilization program (ESP)
becomes standard across the Rabbit line. A power sunroof is available on 2-door
Rabbits, as is the Cold Weather Package.
The biggest change in the GTI take place in the engine, where the 2.0L is now chain-
driven rather than belt-driven. Power output remains the same. Silver has been
dropped as a color, and a new navigation system is available. Volkswagen's
electronic stabilization program (ESP) is now standard. |
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Value: |
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The 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit's standard 5-cylinder engine offers more torque and
responsiveness than many other rival 4-cylinder engines, and the Rabbit offers a
wealth of standard equipment, plus more safety features than most other cars in its
price range. Meanwhile, the GTI models bring perky performance and great handling
to the same practical hatchback body style for a price that leads the compact car
class. |
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Overview: |
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For 2009, Volkswagen's value-priced Rabbit and the performance-oriented GTI are
both available in 2- or 4-door hatchback body styles.
A 170-horsepower, 2.5L 5-cylinder engine powers the Rabbit; in 2-door models it is
available with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic
transmission, which has a Sport mode, while the 4-door Rabbit is available only with
the automatic.
The GTI features a 200-horsepower, 2.0L turbocharged and direct-injected 4-cylinder
engine that delivers both greater performance and better efficiency than the unit
found in the Rabbit. It is paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or Direct
Shift 6-speed automated manual gearbox, and with the manual is rated at 32 mpg
on the highway. Both the Rabbit and GTI are front-wheel drive.
The Rabbit comes with a wide range of standard equipment for a low-priced small
car, including air conditioning, power heated mirrors, cruise control, power windows,
locks, and mirrors, and an eight-speaker CD stereo system. An electric power
steering system helps bring crisp handling and easy maneuverability in parking lots.
Volkswagen's electronic stabilization program (ESP) is now standard on all Rabbits
and GTIs.
The GTI comes with plenty of additional performance and convenience equipment,
including 17-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust tips, vented front disc brakes, a sport
suspension, special appearance cues, alloy pedals, and sport seats. Xenon
headlamps, keyless entry, and a six-CD/ten-speaker stereo system are among the
included extras.
Both the Rabbit and the GTI offer generous standard safety features. Front side and
full-length curtain air bags and anti-lock brakes are standard on both, as well as
Volkswagen's electronic stability program. |
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Performance |
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