I've always liked small hatchbacks with strong motors and manual transmissions, but I've been driving a 4wd v8 pickup truck for the last seven or so years. Thanks to high gas prices and a desire to have a bit more fun on the commute, I recently bought a base 2008 Rabbit S 2 door.

Mine has the 5 speed manual and no other options, though it should be pointed out that VWs come with a lot of content standard. For example, anti lock brakes, air conditioning, nice CD/stereo and multiple airbags are all standard equipment.

I test drove a 2007 Rabbit and was ready to buy it, but for a few more bucks (really, almost no difference) I got the 2008 model, which has a few more features than the 2007, primarily 20 more hp in the 2.5 liter 5 cyl motor (170 hp versus 150 in the 2007).

I've had the car for a week now and am thrilled with it. First of all, it is a blast to drive. This is a small car (though quite substantial, it weighs about 3000 lbs) with a relatively powerful and torquey motor. The 2.5l motor is very flexible and while the redline, at 6200 or so, is sort of low, it's still a lot of fun to run the rabbit through the gears. It's a very nice balance between power and economy. I'd characterize it as smooth, even power that while not neck snapping, is more than you'd expect in a small car and will never leave you feeling like you're being deprived.

So far the economy has been good (much better than my truck, of course). I have put almost 200 miles on the car and have gone through about 5/8th of a tank (I think the tank is 14 or so gallons)in mixed driving (mostly city, with some country road driving as well). That's in the 23 mpg range, which is not at the top of the economy rankings but very much in line with the published numbers for the car. Remember, with a Rabbit you are not buying a gas sipper-you're buying a very comfortable, solid, strong performing small car that has decent fuel use.

The handling is outstanding, even with the base model tires. I used to have a BMW 5 series with sport suspension and this Rabbit has similar moves. There is something about the way German cars perform and if you've ever enjoyed driving a BMW or Mercedes sedan, you'll be very happy with the handling of the Rabbit. It's not harsh at all but it has a lot of the "go kart" handling precision you'd want in a sports oriented car. The handling is predictable, stable and with high limits. It is a total blast to wind out the Rabbit along a winding country road or a freeway onramp.

The interior is also amazing. My wife was shocked when she first opened the door. From the outside, this Rabbit is small. When you get inside, it feels like a large car. You have to see it to believe it, but VWs have high quality materials and a simple but tasteful interior layout. You really feel like you are in a larger car. The rear seats are also comfortable (I think very comfortable, actually, though I've heard others complain about space) and the hatch has plenty of room for Costco runs.

Overall, this is one of the more impressive small cars I've ever driven.
Amount Paid (US$): 15,500
Condition: New
Model Year: 2008
Model and Options: 2 Door S, Manual