Some will see this car as a sort of anachronism. By renaming the Golf Mk V as "Rabbit", Volkswagen Canada can keep selling the previous-generation Golf (Mk IV) as a cheaper alternative called "Golf City". In doing so -- and reviving the American name of the brand’s first front-wheel drive compact -- executives were hoping to make a successful, nostalgia-fueled marketing blitz. That was in 2006.
Now, however, European drivers are already enjoying the all-new Golf VI… and the obsolete Golf IV has been laying in used car lots for quite a while over there.
The irony in all of this is that, for 2010, the Golf VI will land on our shores… as the Golf! Bye-bye Rabbit!
Compact, but not cheap!
With the Golf City now targeting budget-minded consumers after a cheap runabout, at $15,300 MSRP, it’s no surprise that the Rabbit starts just shy of $20K. Actually, the 2009 Trendline model retails for $19,975 and the Comfortline, $20,950.
Aside from the higher level of sophistication, could the geographical origins of both products have something to do with such a considerable price gap? After all, the Rabbit is built in Germany and the Golf City comes from Brazil.
Making matters even more complicated than they already were (sorry!), you can add the Sport package for a $1,600 premium. Unfortunately, you won’t find any "Sport" badges on the car. You’ll get six new features and accessories instead, four of which are truly desirable.
First, there’s the upgraded suspension which reduces the Rabbit’s fairly significant body roll without subjecting occupants to a harsh ride. Next, you gain bi-xenon headlights which markedly improve visibility and safety at night. Also included are leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Don’t overlook these additions because they offer an undeniably pleasant feel. In fact, grabbing the wheel immediately fills your mind with a frenetic desire to drive the Rabbit.
 |
| The Volkswagen Rabbit is still sold as the Golf (Mk V) in Europe. Next year, it will be replaced by the Golf (Mk VI) in North America. |
Now, however, European drivers are already enjoying the all-new Golf VI… and the obsolete Golf IV has been laying in used car lots for quite a while over there.
The irony in all of this is that, for 2010, the Golf VI will land on our shores… as the Golf! Bye-bye Rabbit!
Compact, but not cheap!
With the Golf City now targeting budget-minded consumers after a cheap runabout, at $15,300 MSRP, it’s no surprise that the Rabbit starts just shy of $20K. Actually, the 2009 Trendline model retails for $19,975 and the Comfortline, $20,950.
Aside from the higher level of sophistication, could the geographical origins of both products have something to do with such a considerable price gap? After all, the Rabbit is built in Germany and the Golf City comes from Brazil.
Making matters even more complicated than they already were (sorry!), you can add the Sport package for a $1,600 premium. Unfortunately, you won’t find any "Sport" badges on the car. You’ll get six new features and accessories instead, four of which are truly desirable.
First, there’s the upgraded suspension which reduces the Rabbit’s fairly significant body roll without subjecting occupants to a harsh ride. Next, you gain bi-xenon headlights which markedly improve visibility and safety at night. Also included are leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Don’t overlook these additions because they offer an undeniably pleasant feel. In fact, grabbing the wheel immediately fills your mind with a frenetic desire to drive the Rabbit.
 |
| The dashboard boasts fairly conservative styling. On the other hand, it’s all ergonomically laid out. |