The folks at The Car Connection reviewed the 2010 Volkswagen Routan. The review discusses the pros and cons. A purchaser needs to make an informed choice. In my case, the styling, interior, fuel economy, amenities, and excellent financing terms led me to buy a 2009 Routan SEL in August, 2009. I was thrilled with the transaction, and I haven't been disappointed by the minivan (grossraumlimousine) or the dealer.
The reviewers make an accurate statement when they say that it has the high points of the Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan with noticeable improvements from Volkswagen. If you want a Honda or a Toyota, and are willing to pay the premium price for it, and willing to pass up manufacturer's incentives, then the Volkswagen Routan will not satisfy you. But if you are willing to consider a Chrysler or Dodge, which are good vehicles in their own right, then you are likely to find that the Volkswagen Routan is a better value.
I have the upgraded 4.0L engine. Most reviews comment about the roughness/ coarseness/ inadequacy of the 3.8L engine. I haven't experienced the 3.8L drivetrain. I will tell you that the 4.0L has plenty of power and runs smoothly enough that you may occasionally try to start a running engine (the electronic starting circuit doesn't engage if the engine is running).
By the way, Volkswagen includes an umbrella tray. It's been very handy during this rainy winter. The umbrella tray, the cupholder lighting, and the VW cut out of the headlight shield are all attentions to detail that make you feel like you got something better.
To those who feel the Routan is not a real Volkswagen and that VW should import the Sharan: Volkswagen very well may bring the Sharan to our shores (but not until 2012 or later), but in the meantime I get 4 years of driving a minivan that feels like a Volkswagen.
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