The Volkswagen Rabbit emerged as Consumer Reports' top-rated affordable hatchback following tests of six vehicles for the June issue. The Rabbit outpointed CR's previously top-rated hatchback, the Mazda3."With agile handling and a versatile, well-finished interior, the Rabbit feels solid and is a pleasant car to drive," said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut. "The Rabbit has commendable fit and finish, a versatile interior, and agile handling."
The Rabbit was tested against five other versatile small sedans – the Subaru Impreza Outback Sport, Toyota Matrix, Saturn Astra, Mini Cooper Clubman, and the Scion xD. Prices ranged from $16,620 for the xD to $24,700 for the Clubman.
The Rabbit achieved an "Excellent" overall score in CR's tests, the only vehicle in the group to do so. The Impreza and Matrix were rated "Very Good" overall. The Astra and Mini Cooper scored lower, but still in the "Very Good" range. The xD was the lowest rated vehicle in the group, judged "Good" overall.
Separately, CR's engineers also tested the Toyota Prius with the Touring Package trim line-and ranked it second overall in the ranking of Affordable Hatchbacks, right behind the Rabbit and one point ahead of the Mazda3.
Source: Consumeraffairs