2008 Chicago Auto Show: Volkswagen Routan breaks cover

After a leak by German site AutoBild, images and info of the Volkswagen Routan, the new seven-passenger minivan from V-dub, have popped up on the internet. Created in partnership with Chrysler, the Volkswagen Routan screams “VW” with its front fascia that’s reminiscent of the Volkswagen Tiguan.

Power on the standard model will come from a 3.8 liter V6 that offers 197hp and a peak torque of 230 lb-ft. A 4.0 liter V6 that produces 251hp and 259 lb-ft of torque is also available as an option. Both come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Volkswagen Routan also features a European tuned suspension and has standard all-season traction control and ESP.

Volkswagen will begin deliveries of the Routan later this year with competitively priced entry-level model starting below...
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Whelan - 2/6/2008 9:52:52 AM

+1 Boost

Looks identical to a Chrysler Caravan just with a different grille and more sloped headlamps...Yawn...

Where is the Microbus!!!!!

DROOPYSAKK - 2/6/2008 9:54:46 AM

+2 Boost

i think people will like this.

S4cabriofoxone - 2/6/2008 6:30:18 PM

+1 Boost

You're right, they only both went up this month while BMW went down 27%.

Whelan - 2/6/2008 11:44:43 AM

+1 Boost

Garuanteed to have a price tage a good $5k over what the Caravan has. Base model will be in Town & Country territory because your paying for fault electronics and a VW badge.

Just like every other VW that's overpriced for it's market.

And I don't need to be pestured about the whole bad electronics thing. It's called brand image and not too many years ago when I looked at VW's, they were known for having faulty electronics all over the place. No different than how people view Hyundai regardless of what they come out with.

Rupert - 2/6/2008 12:11:12 PM

+1 Boost

Why the rubbish Chrysler engines??
The 2.0TFSI is a far better engine than the 3.8 V6, which is gutless!

Rupert - 2/6/2008 12:11:53 PM

+2 Boost

But luckily the interior has been altered significantly.

lyonboy - 2/6/2008 12:21:39 PM

+1 Boost

Is VW trying not to be relevant? What a joke along with the rest of the VW junk. My how the mighty have fallen! 7 years ago VW was on top and look at them now, YIKES!

S4cabriofoxone - 2/6/2008 6:31:23 PM

+1 Boost

?

Minivans are going to make a comeback, just see. GM and Ford made mistakes dropping theirs.

S4cabriofoxone - 2/6/2008 6:30:57 PM

+1 Boost

I'm SO GLAD they changed the interior. It's a big improvement over the Chrysler crap.

mac075 - 2/6/2008 10:46:06 PM

+1 Boost

Despite the Chrysler origins, this is by far the 'prettiest' of the bunch. Will definitely be a big hit in the US where minivan choices are limited to Honda, Toyota, the Chryslers this is based on and very little else, VW made a financial decision to make this vehicle at a time where profitability and market necessity definitely call for a fresh face in the segment. Furthermore, although not truly engineered to the true VW heritage, the styling cues are familiar and the ergonomics spot on VW. I hope VW brings back the VR6 engine though like in the previous EuroVans. GOOD JOB on what could have been a disaster and hopefully this minivan will stick around a while!