Yes, VW has finally made its move to compete in the increasingly "happening" entry-level segment. But no, it hasn't brought over the neat Polo subcompact from Europe.
Instead, it lifted an idea first used by VW South Africa 20 years ago: when a new-generation Golf arrives (in this case, our 2007 Rabbit), a bare-bones version of the previous stays on as a more affordable alternative.
VW SA called their version the Citi Golf. Here it's the City-with-a-"y" Golf, but the concept is the same. For $5,000 less than the cheapest 2007 Rabbit (a 3-door) you can have a 5-door 2007 City Golf that's almost identical to an outgoing 2006 Golf CL that last listed for about $18,500.
Of course, you sacrifice a few standard features. There are no side-impact airbags or power windows or keyless entry (though you can get 'em all as options). Still, the base content does include ABS, remote mirrors, height-adjustable driver's seat, tilt-and-telescope steering, and an 8-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3.
Available options, either stand-alone or in packages, include A/C, cruise, automatic, power glass sunroof, power windows, keyless entry, side-curtain airbags and stability control. Check all the boxes and you can run the MSRP up past $23,000. But then, we're talking loaded.
Either way, the only engine is the familiar 2.0-litre gasoline "four," with 115 hp.
A lot of solid, well-made car for the money
Buyers of 2006 Golfs may be feeling cheated