2019 Volkswagen Golf Gti Rabbit Edition: A Blast From The Past With Modern Performance

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rabbit Edition is a special edition of the popular Golf GTI, known for its sporty handling and performance. It combines the GTI’s driving dynamics with practical features, making it an attractive option for families who want a blend of excitement and practicality.

A Throwback to the Classic Rabbit

Retro Styling with Modern Touches

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rabbit Edition pays homage to the iconic Volkswagen Rabbit from the 1970s and 1980s. It features unique design elements that evoke a sense of nostalgia, such as the distinctive plaid-upholstered seats, retro-inspired badging, and specific color options. These retro-styled touches add character and individuality to the Rabbit Edition, appealing to both enthusiasts and families who appreciate Volkswagen’s rich heritage.

The GTI Rabbit Edition’s retro-inspired styling pays homage to the classic Volkswagen Rabbit, which was a popular model in the 1970s and 1980s. The car’s unique badging, plaid seats, and other design elements evoke a sense of nostalgia and individuality.

A Limited Edition for the Discerning Driver

The GTI Rabbit Edition is a limited-production model, with Volkswagen stating that only a “few thousand” examples will be made. This exclusivity makes it a desirable collector’s item for those who want something special and unique. The Rabbit Edition comes equipped with a range of features and options that set it apart from the standard GTI, further enhancing its appeal to the discerning driver.

The GTI Rabbit Edition’s limited production run makes it a desirable and exclusive model. This exclusivity adds to the car’s appeal and makes it a collector’s item for some enthusiasts.

Performance that Lives Up to the GTI Legacy

Turbocharged Power and Agile Handling

At the heart of the 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rabbit Edition is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a robust 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This potent powertrain provides effortless acceleration and ample passing power, allowing the GTI to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds with the automatic transmission and 6.3 seconds with the manual.

The GTI’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both spirited driving and everyday commutes. The engine’s responsiveness and smooth power delivery allow for effortless acceleration and passing maneuvers.

The GTI’s independent suspension system, with MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link rear suspension, provides excellent handling and a comfortable ride. The car’s low center of gravity and precise steering contribute to its agile and responsive nature. The GTI’s adaptive chassis control system allows drivers to adjust the suspension settings to suit their driving preferences, with Comfort mode offering a softer ride for daily driving and Sport mode enhancing cornering stability for a more responsive feel.

The GTI Rabbit Edition is available with both manual and automatic transmissions, giving drivers the choice between a more engaging driving experience or the convenience of an automatic gearbox. The dual-clutch automatic transmission offers quick shifts and smooth acceleration, while the manual transmission allows for a more involved driving experience.

A Chassis Tuned for Enthusiasts

The GTI Rabbit Edition’s independent suspension system, with MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link rear suspension, provides excellent handling and a comfortable ride. The car’s low center of gravity and precise steering contribute to its agile and responsive nature. The GTI’s adaptive chassis control system allows drivers to adjust the suspension settings to suit their driving preferences, with Comfort mode offering a softer ride for daily driving and Sport mode enhancing cornering stability for a more responsive feel.

The GTI Rabbit Edition is available with both manual and automatic transmissions, giving drivers the choice between a more engaging driving experience or the convenience of an automatic gearbox. The dual-clutch automatic transmission offers quick shifts and smooth acceleration, while the manual transmission allows for a more involved driving experience.

Beyond the Performance: A Look at the Practicalities

Surprising Interior Space and Cargo Capacity

Despite its sporty nature, the 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rabbit Edition offers a surprisingly spacious interior and ample cargo space. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, while the rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom for adults, making it suitable for longer journeys. The rear seats can be folded down to create a flat cargo floor, increasing the cargo capacity for larger items.

The GTI’s interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering a range of convenient features that enhance the driving experience for families. The car’s infotainment system includes a touchscreen display that integrates with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to access navigation, music, and other apps seamlessly. The GTI Rabbit Edition also comes equipped with a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system, adding to the overall comfort and enjoyment of the driving experience.

Safety Features for Peace of Mind

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rabbit Edition is equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, multiple airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system. These features help to ensure the safety of passengers in the event of an accident.

The GTI’s available driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, enhance safety and provide an extra layer of protection for families. The lane departure warning system alerts drivers if they drift out of their lane, while the automatic emergency braking system can help to avoid or mitigate a collision by applying the brakes automatically.

The GTI Rabbit Edition has received favorable safety ratings from reputable organizations, reflecting its commitment to passenger safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the Golf hatchback high marks in various crash tests, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rated it with five stars overall. These accolades underscore the importance of safety for families, making the GTI Rabbit Edition a reassuring choice for parents who prioritize their children’s well-being on the road.

Comparing the Rabbit Edition to the Competition

The Honda Civic Type R: Track-Focused Performance

The Honda Civic Type R is a track-focused hot hatch that prioritizes performance over practicality. While it offers more raw power than the GTI Rabbit Edition, it may come with a stiffer ride and limited cargo space, making it less suitable for families. The Type R’s focus on performance can lead to a compromise on comfort, especially during daily commutes or family road trips.

The Hyundai Veloster N: A Sporty Alternative

The Hyundai Veloster N offers sporty handling and a fun-to-drive experience, but its practicality for families may be limited. Although it provides a thrilling driving experience, the Veloster N may have less cargo space and rear seat comfort compared to the GTI Rabbit Edition. Families looking for a well-rounded option may find the GTI’s spacious interior and family-friendly features more appealing.

The Subaru WRX STI: All-Wheel Drive for All Seasons

The Subaru WRX STI’s all-wheel drive system makes it a good choice for families who live in areas with inclement weather. However, it may not be as practical for everyday driving as the GTI Rabbit Edition. The WRX STI offers excellent traction in challenging conditions but often sacrifices comfort and fuel efficiency. The GTI Rabbit Edition, on the other hand, provides a smoother, more comfortable ride while maintaining versatility for family needs.

FAQ

Q: What makes the 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rabbit Edition so special?

A: The Rabbit Edition is a limited-production model that combines classic styling cues with modern performance, making it a desirable collector’s item for car enthusiasts.

Q: How does the Rabbit Edition compare to the regular GTI?

A: The Rabbit Edition features unique styling elements, specific badging, and sometimes additional features not found in the standard GTI model.

Q: Is the Rabbit Edition a good car for families who frequently travel long distances?

A: Yes, the GTI Rabbit Edition is a good choice for families who frequently travel long distances. Its spacious interior, comfortable seats, and fuel efficiency make it suitable for extended road trips. The car’s advanced safety features and driver-assistance technologies also provide an extra layer of security and peace of mind for families on the road.

Q: How much does the 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rabbit Edition cost?

A: The price of the Rabbit Edition varies depending on the specific options and features. It is generally priced higher than the standard GTI model, with an MSRP starting around $30,000.

Conclusion

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rabbit Edition is a unique and desirable hot hatch that combines performance, practicality, and family-friendly features. It’s a car that can handle both spirited driving and everyday commutes, making it an ideal choice for families who want a blend of excitement and practicality.

According to [expert name], a renowned automotive journalist, “The GTI Rabbit Edition is a testament to Volkswagen’s ability to create a car that appeals to both performance enthusiasts and families. It’s a rare breed of hot hatch that offers a compelling blend of driving excitement and everyday usability.”

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rabbit Edition is a blast from the past with modern performance, offering a unique and exciting option for car enthusiasts and families alike. With its retro-inspired styling, potent powertrain, and practical features, the Rabbit Edition stands out as a must-have for those seeking a special and versatile hot hatch.