What a Woman Wants Behind the Wheel : 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit Review

SEE ALSO: Is The Rabbit The Right VW For You? Check Out The Volkswagen Buyers Guide(tm)

By Donna Vissing
The Auto Channel

“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” A timeless sentiment written by William Shakespeare, for the love story between Romeo and Juliet, is one of the most unlikely connections Volkswagen of America, Inc. may imagine. But the connections are eerily similar; name is important including the love story involved.

Setting the scene, Volkswagen of America, Inc. decided to return the original Rabbit name during the 2006 launch of the fifth-generation Golf vehicle. Why? Because of the love affair the U.S. public has carried for the Rabbit since its original launch into our country by Europe. Known as the Golf for the past several years have not improved sales; in fact just the opposite. Name is important and the love affair by the domestic population is as on fire today as it was in 1975, when the vehicle was originally introduced as the Rabbit.

Functional and dependable as ever, the 2007 Rabbit is a vehicle generating female enthusiasts of all ages Available in both two and four-door versions, and sporting the new Tiptronic optional six-speed or five-speed manual automatic transmission, it comes complete with 2.5 liters, five-cylinder 150-horsepower engine with regular and Sport modes.

Larger than the original Rabbit, it continues to navigate and handle with all the benefits of a smaller vehicle. The size increase is definitely experienced in the interior with comfortable 5-passenger seating capacity. Spacious leg room in the front and back, plus 8-way (6-manual and 2-power) adjustable seating makes the Rabbit a very comfortable ride for both short and long distance driving; the heated driver seat can be included as an option.

Spaciousness also describes the storage space, including 15 cubic feet of cargo space. If the trunk requires increased space, the 60/40 split rear seat moves forward, creating more than 46 cubic feet of availability. The four-door version offers the added capability of the front passenger seat folding down flat, opening up additional storage space. What this means for the owner is tremendous flexibility and functionality.

Many women’s most precious cargo is their children, so safety is of utmost concern and interest. With a complete safety system including six airbags, anti-lock brakes, anti-intrusion side door beams, rear impact optimized front seat head restraints and built on a platform offering more crash protection, the Rabbit is a vehicle women can buckle their children in and drive with confidence. The Rabbit also offers an optional feature called the Electronic Stabilization Program; recently hailed by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety as being responsible for decreasing fatality accidents by 50%.

Functional does not mean boring, and the Rabbit is definitely anything but a boring ride. With a standard in-dash 10-speaker, MP3 format-readable, CD system and optional XM Satellite Radio package available on four-doors, the sound in the vehicle is impressive. There are two power ports, including an auxiliary audio input available for an iPod. There is also an optional powered sunroof package also available for four-door models. All together these features can take a routine drive and turn it into a fun, relaxing experience. And with good gas mileage, 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, you don’t have to worry about the drive costing you a fortune in gas.

Exterior heated power mirrors with integrated blinkers and dual chrome exhaust tips come standard and increase the safety factor. The Rabbit has daytime running lights, protective cage, anti-theft system and the 5th door for added ease of moving items in and out.

There are many other options you can include such as a body kit, three different wheel styles with two larger sizes available, different size racks for transporting ski and bike equipment, and exterior graphics appliqués. Personalizing the Rabbit is easy and affordable because the base price is affordable. Starting at approximately $15,000 for the two-door, you can spec order to your liking, adding options that will add quality to your life, and you will still have an affordable vehicle for approximately $20,000. The Rabbit is a great value for a good price.

What’s in a name? The Rabbit is back and the U.S. market couldn’t be more pleased!