Model Strengths:

• Clean Styling
• Passenger-friendly Interior
• Fuel Economy
• Handling
• Entertainment and Convenience Options

Model Overview:

The Routan offers two different V-6 engines, both strong enough to bring sprightly performance and adequate acceleration even when the van is full loaded. Base S and better-equipped SE models come with a 197-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 engine and luxurious SEL models get a more powerful 253-horsepower, 4.0-liter V-6. All models get a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. In addition to offering more power and torque, the larger, 4.0-liter engine is also more economical, with EPA fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city, 25 highway-1 mpg better in the city and 2 better on the highway than the 3.8-liter.

The Routan promises to be more exciting to drive than the typical minivan, with a so-called "European tuned" McPherson front suspension and twist-beam rear axle suspension with crisp rack-and-pinion steering. When properly optioned, the Routan can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Inside, the Routan gets a clean, two-tone appearance to the instrument panel, with materials and gauge faces that match the rest of VW's lineup. All models come with supportive bucket seats in front, but there are two possible configurations for the second row. The Routan S model has a reclining bench seat in the second row that can be removed when desired, while other models have two second-row captain's chairs. Both configurations feature a 60/40-split third-row bench that folds neatly into the floor to expand cargo space when it's not in use.

No matter what the trim, the Routan comes with standard features and conveniences aimed at busy families and passenger comfort, including a total of 13 cupholders and plenty of storage cubbies throughout for everything from childrens' toys to parents' PDAs.

The S model includes aid conditioning, cruise control, power windows and locks and a six-speaker CD sound system. The SE adds a lot more of the luxuries most buyers will want, including power heated mirrors, power sliding doors, an alarm, and a garage door opener, while the SEL brings a host of desirable features such as a power tailgate, heated front and second-row seats, power adjustable pedals, and rear side-window sunshades. At the top of the range, a Premium package completely loads the Routan with features, including HID headlamps, fog lamps, a sunroof, remote start, rear parking assist, a rear entertainment system, a 506-watt sound system with CD/DVD changer, and a 115-volt power outlet.

Top options include a touch-screen navigation system, which includes a 30-gigabyte hard drive and music storage, and a rear DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones.

Model Changes:

The Routan minivan is an all-new model in the Volkswagen lineup. Though the seven-seat Routan is heavily based on Chrysler's minivans and assembled by Chrysler, the Routan has different suspension tuning along with unique sheetmetal and styling cues.

Model Value:

The Routan appeals to minivan buyers who want a little more style and verve in their family hauler. In addition to clean VW design cues inside and out, the Routan has a suspension that's tuned more for crisp handling than ride comfort compared to the Chrysler minivans on which it's based. With the 4.0-liter engine, the Routan is also one of the most fuel-efficient minivans available, with a highway estimate of 25 mpg.

Driving Impressions

Introduction

Interior

Summary

Walkaround

Lineup