Article Comments: 2006 VW Rabbit First Drive

16 messages, Last post on Nov 09, 2006 at 7:13 PM

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What is this discussion about? Volkswagen Rabbit, Hatchback

Article comments for First Drive-2006 VW Rabbit - Although the Rabbit's profile remains reminiscent of the original, unlike in the days of roller disco and Different Strokes the word "rabbit" does not appear anywhere on the car. Instead, a small chrome bunny cast midhop decorates the hatch beside a chrome 2.5, which denotes the Rabbit's engine size in liters. (more)

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#8 of 16 Impressions by jbaustian Jul 18, 2006 (7:43 pm)
I like the look of the car. I like the independent rear suspension, though most Rabbit drivers will never push their car hard enough to notice that it's improved from the Mk4 Golf. I like the new 2.5 liter engine, though I really want one with a TDI engine. I like that the 6-speed DSG transmission is available, though I prefer a manual transmission. I like the long list of standard features, that are extra-cost options on nearly all other cars in its class. I like that it only weighs about 35 pounds more than the previous generation Golf, while the new Jetta is almost 300 pounds heavier than the previous generation Jetta. Replies to this message: meredith13 (Nov 09, 2006 9:45 am) eldaino (Nov 09, 2006 7:13 pm)
#9 of 16 Reliability? by aladdinsane Aug 08, 2006 (7:51 pm)
It would be great if VW turned things around, with the debut of the new Rabbit. I refer to reliability/dependability issues that VW has had of late. If VW can get its act together then I would seriously consider the purchase of an '07 Rabbit, but only time will tell. Replies to this message: tdennen (Sep 15, 2006 1:52 pm) aladdinsane (Sep 15, 2006 5:40 pm)
#10 of 16 Rabbit appears to be an excellent vehicle by jbaustian Aug 08, 2006 (8:09 pm)
When I got off work today, I was only a few blocks from the VW dealership where I bought my Mk4 Golf, almost exactly 3 years ago. So I thought, why not take a few minutes to actually look at a new Rabbit up close. The interior is different, but not very. Everything has the same solid feel of the previous model. Under the hood, I was impressed by the way the engineers had arranged everything. Everything seemed designed for easy access and easy maintenance. For example, it will be much easier to replace headlight bulbs. The windshield washer reservoir is tucked out of the way, so it doesn't have to be removed to access the timing belt, etc. The starter and alternator are easy to get at. Oil changes should be a snap. The 2.5 liter 5-cylinder engine is not the one I want -- I'm addicted to diesel -- but still it seems to be an excellent vehicle.
#11 of 16 Iron block? by cts40 Sep 05, 2006 (9:12 am)
Although the Rabbit may appear like a quality vehicle, VW will have to prove that they make a car that can stand up over time before I'll consider one. I learned first hand why VWs have earned their reputation for poor quality when I purchased a Passat a few years ago. Couple the reliability issue with a iron block 5 cylinder engine that makes only 150 hp and I have to say NO THANKS. Replies to this message: jbaustian (Sep 05, 2006 6:20 pm)
#12 of 16 Re: Iron block? [cts40] by jbaustian Sep 05, 2006 (6:20 pm)
Replying to: cts40 (Sep 05, 2006 9:12 am) My 2003 Golf TDI came with only 90 hp (it has more than that now), and I'd buy another one just like it in a heartbeat.
#13 of 16 Re: Reliability? [aladdinsane] by tdennen Sep 15, 2006 (1:52 pm)
Replying to: aladdinsane (Aug 08, 2006 7:51 pm) I purchased a '01 Cabrio new (Golf convertible). Absolutely the worse car I've own by far. In the shop 44 times (for months on end) for every possible problem, not all fixed. Got rid if before I had a heart attack and purchased another Subaru Outback. Subaru's are not perfect but a fine car. NEVER again will I purchase a VW. Too bad since when it was running right it was a nice riding and attractive car. SAD Replies to this message: aladdinsane (Sep 15, 2006 5:40 pm)
#14 of 16 Re: Reliability? [tdennen] by aladdinsane Sep 15, 2006 (5:40 pm)
Replying to: tdennen (Sep 15, 2006 1:52 pm) I hear you, tdennen. . .which is precisely why I'm leery about purchasing a new Rabbit. . .It seems that when you purchase a VW nowadays it's all in the roll of the dice, so to speak. . .more often than not, know what I mean? Buying any vehicle from any manufacturer can be a risk. A lemon is always possible, even from Toyota, Honda. . .blahblahblah- but from VW the potential risk for a clunker is higher than average. . . It IS sad! Peace!
#15 of 16 Love it by meredith13 Nov 09, 2006 (9:45 am)
Replying to: jbaustian (Jul 18, 2006 7:43 pm) My first car was a 1981 Rabbit. It happened to have a 76 Dasher engine in it, but that's another story. I drove it from 1991 until 1999 when the clutch finally went. I then got a 1995 Golf and experienced few major problems. I think the fuel pump was the biggest thing I had to replace. When the clutch started to get iffy this past spring, I got nervous. It was soon after that I saw for the first time the TV commercial for the Rabbit. I went to the dealer and traded in my Golf. I have been driving the Rabbit since July and I love it. It handles very well and is very peppy. I have found the gas mileage to be acceptable and I have experienced no problems yet. Perhaps I am just impressed with the power windows and CD player, firsts for me. Replies to this message: eldaino (Nov 09, 2006 7:13 pm)
#16 of 16 Re: Love it [meredith13] by eldaino Nov 09, 2006 (7:13 pm)
Replying to: meredith13 (Nov 09, 2006 9:45 am) Meredith13 i am happy to hear that you are content with your new rabbit. Enjoy and welcome to the family!