2008 Volkswagen Rabbit in Leesburg, VA - $4,397

Originally introduced into the US marketplace in 1975, the Volkswagen Rabbit was originally built for the tight, speedy streets of Europe. American city-dwellers quickly discovered the advantages of its smaller, nimble, fuel-efficient and versatile package. Although the 2009 Rabbit is priced as an affordable runabout, it is built and executed for what it really is: the only German-engineered, German-styled, German-produced, and German-badged hatchback offering in the US compact segment.

With a simple and understated look, the exterior of the front-drive Rabbit is a modern version of the classic original that first appeared in 1975. Exterior panel colors are matched with body-color upper bumpers and moldings, door handles, front grille and mirror housings.

Offered in two door and four-door models, the Volkswagen compact is available in one well-equipped trim level. Power for the Rabbit is generated by a 2.5L five-cylinder engine. Torque is communicated to the street through the standard five-speed manual gearbox. A six-speed automatic with Tiptronic and Sport mode is an available option.

On the road, the Volkswagen hatchback is responsive at speed -- quick and nimble as a RABBIT! The foundation of the Volkswagen Rabbit begins with a laser welded steel frame -- creating a stiff vehicle "skeleton". This robust backbone improves handling, provides its super-solid road feel and works to reduce interior noise. Mounted to it is an independent McPherson front suspension with

specifically tuned coil springs; bushings; telescopic shock absorbers and integrated stabilizer bar.

Inside the roomy passenger cabin, displays, controls and switchgear are intuitively placed and easy to use. The front bucket seats are nicely supported and comfortable for long drives. The rear seat is a 60/40 split folding seat with a center armrest and pass-through -- designed to maximize the hauling of people and/or cargo.

Rabbit standard features include: 15-inch all-season tires, two-speed intermittent wipers, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, air conditioning, anti-theft system, cruise control, rear window defroster, outside temperature display, AM/FM audio system with in-dash CD player, split folding rear seats, power windows, and electro-mechanical power steering.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 101.5; overall length: 165.8; width: 69.3; height: 58.2 – all measurements in inches.

Engine: 2.5L five-cylinder -- 170 hp at 5,700 rpm and 177 lbs-ft of torque at 4,250 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed manual or six-speed automatic with Tiptronic.

EPA fuel economy: 21 city/30 highway (manual); 20 city/29 highway (automatic).

Cargo capacity: 15.0 cubic feet.

Parts content -- country of origin

Final assembly point: Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany.

US/Canadian: 1.0 percent.

Germany: 75 percent.

Engine: Mexico; Transmission: Japan.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring system, anti-intrusion side door beams, daytime running lights, engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry, remote central locking system, automatic power door locks, full-size spare tire, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake-pressure distribution, hydraulic brake assistant, anti slip regulation, engine braking assist, electronic stability program, electronic differential lock and alarm system.

Optional safety equipment includes rear side-impact airbags (4-door only).

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Free scheduled maintenance: 3-year/36,000 mile.

Corrosion: 12-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit starts from $16,300 for the 2-door model and $19,340 for the four-door. Destination charges add $700.

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