2009 Volkswagen Rabbit: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit is that electronic stability control became standard across the lineup. Otherwise, this was a light update, with the four-door switching to an automatic-only setup and the Rabbit name entering its final U.S. model year.
About the 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit
5th gen Golf/Rabbit (Mk5), last U.S. Rabbit year before the updated 2010 Golf.
Volkswagen positions the Rabbit as a small hatchback that feels more substantial than a typical economy car. The official brochure leans on its strong five-cylinder power, standard safety features, roomy cabin, hatchback cargo flexibility, and unusually robust audio setup for the class. Period reviews echo that theme, describing a compact car with a polished interior, comfortable ride, and a more planted, upscale feel than many low-price rivals.
The 2009 Rabbit S is a practical compact hatchback with a more substantial cabin than many small cars of its time. Its 170-hp 2.5-liter five-cylinder, 10-speaker CD stereo with an auxiliary input, cruise control, and split-folding rear seat balance lively everyday driving with useful cargo space.
What changed, by category
2009 Volkswagen Rabbit specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 5-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 20–21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29–30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 170 hp |
| Torque | 177 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.3 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2–4 |
| Alarm System | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Power Moonroof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit?
The biggest change is standard electronic stability control across the 2009 Rabbit lineup. The system helps the driver maintain control when the car begins to skid.
Does the 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit four-door have a manual transmission?
No. The four-door Rabbit became automatic-only for 2009, while the two-door and four-door hatchback body styles remained in the lineup.
Did the 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit get a new engine?
No. The 2009 Rabbit kept its 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, rated at 170 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.
Is the 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit a major redesign?
No. The 2009 Rabbit is a light update rather than a redesign. Its main changes are standard electronic stability control and an automatic-only four-door model.
Was 2009 the last year for the Volkswagen Rabbit name in the U.S.?
Yes. The 2009 model was the last U.S. version to use the Rabbit name before the updated 2010 model returned as the Volkswagen Golf.