Rabbits are usually associated with spring.

But at Volkswagen dealers, Rabbits are year-round things -- especially now that the Rabbit is back. Volkswagen decided to rename the fifth generation Golf that was introduced late in the 2006 model year. The name change was done because of the familiarity and affection with which the Rabbit nameplate is associated.

The little Rabbit is a pretty good car. Its interior is quite deluxe when you consider it's an economy model, but interiors have always been one of VW's fortes. It's also got a smooth ride, is pleasant to drive and is built like a little tank.

The only qualm I had about it was that it didn't feel quite as sporty as previous Golfs that I'd driven, but it's certainly not enough of a difference to cause people not to buy it. Power comes from a 150 horsepower, five cylinder engine (mileage rating: 22/30). How does it compare to the Golf in terms of size and room? It's a bit bigger than the Golf and feels somewhat heavier -- and it's got more headroom and about two inches more legroom in back.

	The Volkswagen Eos. Click image for larger version.

Standard equipment includes side air bags, disc brakes, full length head curtain air bags, heated mirrors, a 60/40 split rear seat, cruise control and other niceties. You can get either a manual or a six-speed automatic transmission that lets you shift for yourself.

Base price ranges from $14,990 to $18,185.

VW does have a car more in keeping with summer driving. At first blush, the Eos resembles the Audi A4 Convertible with its understated, curvaceous good looks. But the Eos has its own charms -- it is now Europe's best-selling convertible.

The Eos comes with either a 2.0 liter, 200-horsepower, four-cylinder engine or a 3.2-liter, 250-horsepower V-6. Base prices are $27,990 for the Eos 2.0T and $36,850 for the Eos 3.2 liter model. Gas mileage is rated at 23 city/32 highway.

Standard equipment includes a tinted glass power sunroof, air conditioning, full power accessories, traction and stability control and Volkswagen's signature grille and taillights.

What's Coming in 2008

Volkswagen has heavily revised its Touareg, which is now known as the Touareg2. There's a big press launch this summer, so look for more details. I'm also hearing that 2008 will bring an all new Jetta SportWagen to the U.S., with the base model priced about $17,000 to $18,000, with a 2.5 liter 170 horsepower five cylinder as standard equipment.