The 2009 Routan, Volkswagen’s all-new seven-passenger minivan, delivers the best of both worlds: a vehicle that combines German sensibilities in design, fit and finish and European ride and handling characteristics, together with market relevant features while still delivering an outstanding value.
The Routan comes with a standard six-speed automatic transmission mated to a 3.8L V6 with 197 horsepower and 230 lbs. ft. of torque or an available 4.0L V6 with 253 horsepower and 262 lbs. ft. of torque. Function follows form with fuel economy numbers of 16 city 23 highway for the 3.8L and 17 city and 25 highway in the 4.0L in this well designed and spacious seven seater.
A distinctly designed minivan with attractive starting prices of $24,700 for the S model, $29,600 for the SE model and $33,200 for the well equipped SEL model. Routan not only broadens Volkswagen’s appeal, but it also provides a roomy alternative to existing Volkswagen owners that desire a seven passenger vehicle.
Design
The Routan is instantly recognizable as a member of the Volkswagen family, with its stylized front grille and exterior treatments. The interior enhancements create an environment that is visually pleasing, modern, and meticulously detailed. The high quality materials, beautiful textures and rich luxurious colors are combined with exacting tolerances and superb fit and finish.
Safety and Security Come Standard
Routan comes with a host of standard safety features – including standard front and side curtain airbags. Routan features German tuned suspension and steering optimized for handling and improved driving dynamics. Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) – standard on all 2009 Volkswagen’s – with hydraulic brake assist, bring an added level of security to the Routan. Also available are High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps for improved visibility and an ultrasonic rear-park assist.
Convenience
Routan features a host of functional features, including: conversation mirror, rear seat entertainment system with two nine inch screens for second and third row passengers, touch screen navigation with 30 GB JoyBox™ Multi-Media Entertainment system, dual power sliding doors with power windows, power fold third row seating for extra storage room or “tailgating” function, and no less than thirteen cup holders.
Available heated front and second row captain’s chairs offer an increased level of luxury and comfort. The convenience of a traditional minivan is here with up to 144 cubic feet available with second row removed, and the third row stowed. Remote keyless entry with an available remote vehicle start system provides an extra level of comfort on a cold or hot day. To accommodate the needs of today’s families, the Routan features standard 12V power outlets and an available 115V AC outlet for powering up phones, MP3 players and game consoles.
Also standard for 2009 is Volkswagen’s Carefree Maintenance Program, with this program there are no charges for the scheduled maintenance described in the vehicle’s maintenance booklet for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty—three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
Electronic Stabilization Program Technology Backgrounder
All 2009 Volkswagens come standard equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP). ESP has been called the most important safety device since the safety belt and the most important safety advance of this generation. To paraphrase one auto writer, “it’s like having a guardian angel as your co-pilot.”
ESP Snapshot
Helps prevent oversteer and understeer (fishtailing). Uses technology applied in the Stealth aircraft to keep it aloft to measure the spin of the vehicle. Applies computer technology to help the driver maintain control. NHTSA research found ESC could save 10,000 lives a year.
ESC Advantage
Multiple studies from the U.S., Europe and Asia have concluded that vehicles equipped with ESC have in the range of 35 percent fewer crashes. NHTSA studies conducted specifically in the U.S. concluded that passenger cars equipped with ESC experienced a 30 percent reduction in fatal single vehicle crashes. The same study concluded that SUVs equipped with ESC experienced a 63 percent reduction in fatal single-vehicle crashes. The NHTSA research saw a reduction in crashes that also involve a rollover by more than 70 percent. The studies conducted by NHTSA and others reached similar findings when it came to reducing the incidence of crashes overall: vehicles equipped with ESC saw a significant net reduction in crashes. The agency predicts that ESC could save 10,500 lives and prevent between 168,000 and 252,000 injuries every year. That equates to more than $40 billion savings in economic losses in the U.S. alone.
One independent study conducted in 2006 by the prestigious Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) concluded that ESC could prevent nearly one-third of all fatal crashes and reduce the risk of rolling over by as much as 80 percent.
ESP takes advantage of the great advances in electronics that have occurred in the past 20 years to be in the vanguard of active or primary safety systems. ESP is the sum of three functions — antilock brakes that enable individual braking and control at the four comers
