Volkswagen Canada shows 2010 Rabbit TDI at Toronto Auto Show
We learned from Volkswagen last September that the redesigned 2010 MK VI Rabbit would be offered in TDI trim. Volkswagen has yet to show the MK VI Rabbit/Golf here in the U.S., but it did turn up in Toronto this week at the Canadian International Auto Show. A poster over the VW Vortex forums snapped a few camera phone pics of the new model, which isn't radically different from the MK V. The biggest change, as we've already seen from Europe, is the new face that will be seen on other new VWs over the next few years. Under the hood, the Rabbit has the same 2.0L four-cylinder diesel that's in the Jetta with 140 hp. The same choice of 6-speed manual or DSG transmission is expected to appear in the Rabbit, as well. The Rabbit should be at U.S. dealerships in the fall. Thanks to Jay for the tip!
[Source: VW Vortex]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
moogy 1:48PM (2/12/2009)
It's a nice start. But we still need to get the Volkswagen UP in Canada.
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Peter L 9:56AM (2/12/2009)
Nice too see that this model will be sold in North America especially to Canada where VW diesels have always been big sellers.
Typical VW in staring off selling the higher end models ie Jetta TDi s before the affordable models
Having driven the new Jetta recently, I was very impressed. My first new car was a 1979 240D which I drove for 13 years in both Europe and Canada. It fell victim to rust eventually. The new generation of diesel engines are so different.
Check out my diesel in my video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jszRAOPwuQQ
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GenWaylaid 11:41AM (2/12/2009)
This engine certainly is a welcome alternative to the 2.5L gas engine currently in the Rabbit. The gas mileage of the 2.5 is reasonable but disappointing from Volkswagen. Assuming the Rabbit TDI gets similar mileage to the Jetta TDI then operating costs should be lower even with a typical diesel price premium. This definitely is on my "short list" for my next car.
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PeterG 2:55PM (2/12/2009)
Perhaps running costs might edge out a VW with Gas engine (I am still doubtfull) but unlikely to edge a Japanese car with gas engine and lower maintenance costs.
Most gas engines are going with timing chain. The VW ( already high maintenance charges) TDI has a Belt you will be replacing much more frequently. You also better sell it before that complex multi-catalyst exhaust system croaks.
Kumar 3:22PM (2/12/2009)
Here's to hoping a 4motion will be available with this....or the Jetta TDI, along with a 6 speed manual.
Do I really need it...no, want it, yep. Heck, even the A3 quattro TDI would do nicely stateside for me.
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MikeW 9:21AM (2/13/2009)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmZC6B4qeLA
ryan 11:29PM (2/12/2009)
This thing would still tip the scales at 3000lbs. What the heck is it loaded with? I am sorry, but being only 200 or so pounds less than the Jetta, and probably undercutting it in price by about $1000 (my guess looking at markup for the TDI over the regular gas Jetta) just isn't going to cut it.
A Polo bluemotion, or Fox is what I am looking for.
No doubt that the Rabbit TDI would be a blast to drive though.
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PeterG 2:37PM (2/13/2009)
Yes.
The TDI looks good mileage wise because the Gas models are so awful.
The Rabbit is 3000lbs and gets 10.7/7.0 L/100KM.
TDI will be like 6.8/4.8 L/100KM.
Meanwhile you can buy a much less expensive 2500lb Honda fit, that gets 7.1/5.5 L/100km on much thriftier regular gas.
Ken Stamper 5:32PM (2/14/2009)
Why do you expect it to weight so much less than a Jetta? They are mechanically the same car. The sheetmetal of a trunk doesn't weigh all that much more than a hatch, if it does at all.
ryan 7:07PM (2/14/2009)
Ken: I compared the gasser Jetta to the gasser Rabbit to get the 200-300 lbs figure and the $1000 difference. That is to say, the Rabbit with the 2.5 weighs about 2-300lbs less than the Jetta and costs about $1000 less.
Derek Kreindler 3:15PM (2/13/2009)
Thanks for posting my pics, Sam. Do you mind crediting my blog, Rich Corinthian Leather, where the pics are actually hosted?
Derek
http://derekkreindler.blogspot.com
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