The entry-level 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit return to production this model-year after being ignored in favor of the similar Golf, with which it shares a platform. It is offered in either a two- or four-door version, hatchbacks both, and comes with a zippy little 2.5 liter, inline five-cylinder engine that offers 170 horsepower and 177 pounds-feet of torque. It's the same engine found in this year's Volkswagen Jetta, but in the Rabbit drivers can choose either a six-speed automatic, or a five-speed manual transmission. The automatic has a "tiptronic" mode for semi-manual shifting.

Anti-lock breaks are standard on the 2008 Rabbit, as are an electronic stability program, and anti-slip technology. The safety features are rounded out with a total of six airbags, and an engine immobilization system helps deter theft.

Inside the 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit, you'll find power windows that have "pinch protection" for small fingers, and cup holders for both the front and back seats. There's also cruise control, air conditioning, and an AM/FM Radio/CD player combination that comes with a basic auxiliary jack for mp3 players. An upgrade adds iPod-specific audio connections, as well as heating for the front seats, but heated side mirrors and keyless entry are standard features. The Rabbit offers seating for five, including the driver, and a back seat that folds down in a 60/40 split.

All of these features are wrapped up in a body that is clearly a blend of it's Jetta and Golf predecessors. From the Jetta, the 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit takes its head lights, and from the Golf it inherits a slatted grille, complete with VW logo in the center, and an overall look that is simple and clean, with 15 inch wheels standard, and an optional upgrade to 16-inch rims.

The 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit has a base MSRP of $14,490, and fuel efficiency of 22 mpg in the city / 30 on the highway with the manual transmission, or 21/29 with the optional automatic.