Priced about the same as the outgoing model, and with roughly the same exterior dimensions, the 2007 VW Rabbit will offer a boatload of features, because, well, one thing has changed: people want more car for their money now, they want the thing to run, and they want safe, comfortable cars. Judging from the show floor, where all things are beautiful, the Rabbit delivers. Coming in June of 2006 are three- and five-door variants, each with standard features such as four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, traction control, front and rear side curtain airbags for head protection, and front side-impact airbags. The new Rabbit will ride on 15-inch wheels, with 16-inchers optional. Perhaps more significant changes occur underneath: the 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit has a fully independent suspension, and a 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine that generates 150 horsepower and is mated to a standard five-speed manual transmission. That’s about 35 horsepower more than the current Rabbit. A six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic will be available as an option.

Inside, the Rabbit gets “uptown” features such as one-touch power windows, heated side mirrors, cruise control, a CD player, and remote entry. Options include heated front seats, a moonroof, and more. Most impressive, however, is the room inside: the 2007 VW Rabbit gets two inches of added rear legroom, and more headroom. For cargo and convenience, there’s a 60/40-split rear seat; a fold-flat front seat is also available. On the outside, Volkswagen brings its current design cues to the Rabbit, including the headlights and grille, but generally leaves the Rabbit as it has always been: simple, smooth and uncluttered.