A Routan Owner's Blog

Volkswagen To Launch Retro-Styled Bulli Concept For 2014: Rumor

2011-08-17T14:02:00.002-05:00

The Car Connection
2011-08-15T07:00:00-07:00

Volkswagen Bulli ConceptGallery

When Volkswagen unveiled its Bulli concept vehicle last March at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, the response from the press and the public was fairly unanimous: "Build it!" Now, there are rumors that VW is preparing to do just that, and it could hit the U.S. by 2014.

The Bulli was a hit for at least two reasons. For starters, it's a squared-off multi-purpose vehicle, like countless others littering showrooms these days (e.g. the Kia Soul, Nissan Cube, and Scion xB). However, the Bulli feels a bit bigger and more grown up than some of those MPVs -- possibly a competitor with rides like the Ford Flex and a definite option for the young family looking for a hip alternative to the minivan.
But what really turned heads was the Bulli's styling: sleek and retro with a big greenhouse, reminiscent of the VW buses many folks remember from childhood. (In fact, the Bulli was a riff on the Microbus concept that VW debuted in 2001.) It was also an EV with a range of 185 miles and a recharge time of just one hour.

We can't vouch for the rumors about the Bulli's move to the production line, but group design chief Walter de’Silva has some enthusiasm for the idea: "We don’t have a space for another conventional MPV, but this one would be desirable on a different level, combining practicality with the heritage appeal."

And he's right: the Bulli would look great sitting alongside VW's other heavy-hitting heritage model, the new Beetle. Rumors point to production of the Bulli at VW's facility in Puebla, Mexico -- the same plant that produces the Beetle. If that's true, we could see the MPV in showrooms as part of VW's 2014 model-year lineup.

But don't expect the production Bulli to be an EV -- at least not yet. Rumors indicate that the road-ready version will have a conventional combustion engine. Either way, we're looking forward to it.

Minivans: The Preferred Rides For Generation X?

2011-07-19T11:00:00.002-05:00

Driver's Seat - WSJ

By Jonathan Welsh

Getty Images

The once-obscure Volkswagen Routan ninivan is a top pick among Generation X car shoppers, a survey says.

If you have noticed a lot of minivans on the road lately it may be because parents in their 30s and 40s are snapping them up. A survey of car buyers indicates the once-edgy demographic group known as Generation X is looking for safety, space and other family values in their vehicles.

Image via CrunchBaseThe study by TrueCar.com, an auto industry research company, looked at the purchases of more than 200,000 car buyers from 2009 and 2010. TrueCar.com said the resulting data helped it compile a list of the most popular brands and models of shoppers in the 28 to 45 age range. Officially the Gen-X group includes people born from 1965 to 1980.

The most popular brands included Volkswagen, Land Rover and Audi. Surprisingly — or not so surprisingly — minivans dominated the roster of top models.

“Generation X buyers have a work hard/play hard mentality and chose cars that were comfortable and convenient for their lifestyle. They chose larger, more luxurious cars to take their families on vacations or kids to play soccer with ample room to store equipment and luggage,” said Kristen Andersson, an analyst with TrueCar.

The top brands for Generation X buyers (ages 28-45) in 2009 and 2010 were:
Rank
Brands
Percentage of Gen X Buyers
1
Volkswagen
43.3%
2
Land Rover
41.5%
3
Audi
40.8%
4
Mazda
38.4%
5
Jeep
38.3%
6
Infiniti
37.8%
7
Acura
37.4%
8
Nissan
37.1%
9
Honda
36.7%
10
MINI
36.0%
The top models for Generation X buyers (ages 28-45) in 2009 and 2010 and the current percentage discount from MSRP are:
Rank
Make/Model
Percentage of Gen X Buyers
MSRP (Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price)
Average Paid*
Percentage Discount from MSRP**

Image via Wikipedia1
Volkswagen Routan
66.0%
$27,750
$26,536
4.4%

2
BMW M3 Sedan
63.6%
$56,775
$53,544
5.7%
3
Nissan Quest
60.0%
$28,560
$26,362
7.7%

Image via Wikipedia4
Nissan Armada
59.9%
$39,465
$33,640
14.8%

5
Honda Odyssey
58.9%
$28,885
$28,195
2.4%

Image via Wikipedia6
Toyota Land Cruiser
57.9%
$69,895
$67,404
3.6%

7
Toyota Sienna
53.9%
$25,870
$23,953
7.4%

Image via Wikipedia8
Volvo XC90
51.5%
$39,275
$37,165
5.4%

Image via Wikipedia9
Infiniti QX56
49.9%
$59,690
$57,138
4.3%

10
Chevrolet Aveo
48.5%
$12,725
$10,886
14.4%
*Average paid is the estimated average transaction price of a vehicle after incentives.
** Percent Discount from MSRP is rounded to the nearest tenth.

VW Routan cool enough for the gang

2011-06-17T14:40:00.003-05:00

Minivan outdoes hippie-mobiles

Image via Wikipedia

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Wednesday, June 15, 2011
By Richard Williamson, Scripps Howard News Service
Some would argue that the first minivan was a Volkswagen Microbus.
The ubiquitous hippie-mobile that crisscrossed the country in various patterns of paint in the 1960s showed that baby boomers would bond with a car that looked and ran like a loaf of bread.
When it came time to raise a family, however, the boomers were looking for something with more status, safety and functionality….
Volkswagen never made much of a dent in the U.S. market with its Vanagon and Eurovan, minivans that sometimes seemed unnecessarily eccentric.

Image via Wikipedia

Other than its name, there's nothing eccentric about Volkswagen's current minivan, the Routan. That's because it is a rebadged version of the Dodge Grand Caravan built on Chrysler's Windsor, Ontario, assembly line. …

With its first minivan since it discontinued the Eurovan in 2003, Volkswagen aimed for 5 percent of the U.S. minivan market. But economic travail sidelined those goals.
Recalls also have caused some distress. The 2009 models were recalled along with their Chrysler platform mates last June for a fire hazard stemming from an improperly routed wire harness.
Those issues aside, the Routan, like its Chrysler cousins, is a terrific vehicle that deflects "soccer-mom" aspersions with a long, flat-roofed profile, brusque front end and blunt tail. In dark paint, this minivan could accommodate a crew of gangsters without hurting their rep. …
Designed to seat seven in three rows, the Routan comes with Chrysler's amazingly simple stow-and-go third-row seats that flip into a container to create a large, flat storage surface. The loops that you pull are numbered 1, 2, 3, 4. In a few seconds, the seats are gone and the floor is utterly flat.
All Routans are powered by a new 3.6-liter engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that deliver 283 horsepower and 260 lbs./ft. of torque to the front wheels.
With fuel economy of 17 city and 25 highway mpg, the estimated annual fuel cost is $2,250. And the Routan does not require premium unleaded.
Standard 12-volt power outlets are provided for cell phones, MP3 players and game consoles.
The comfortable seats are covered in leatherette with pillow-top armrests. The second row is a set of captain's chairs, while the third row is a split-folding bench.
All 2011 Routan models include an all-new leather-wrapped steering wheel with multifunction controls, a leather-wrapped shift knob and a full array of gauges.
Storage includes dual glove boxes, a floor console with cup holders, an optional highline console with a large storage compartment, ceiling storage, door sill and rear quarter storage bins, various cargo nets and a variety of coat and bag and purse hooks.
All three seating rows get LED reading lights, while sunshades filter harsh light.
A Garmin Navigation system is optional for the SE, while Sirius Travel Link and integrated iPod interface are added to Routan SEL with Navigation.
Dual power sliding doors with power windows are standard, along with a power lift gate.
Remote keyless entry can be upgraded to a remote vehicle start system.
The Routan's ride and handling are deft and comfortable, making the minivan an outstanding road car.
Passenger protection includes front, side and head-curtain air bags, along with a knee airbag for the driver.
Active safety features include anti-lock brakes and engine braking control, along with electronic stability control.

Volkswagen's U.S. CEO Pushes For Bulli Concept Production

2011-04-08T11:25:00.002-05:00

The Car Connection
2011-04-06T11:00:00-07:00

VW Bulli Concept, from Volkswagen AG
Enlarge Photo
Jonathan Browning, president and CEO of Volkswagen of America, has the Bulli microbus concept at the very top of his “unfunded projects he’d like to see in production” list.

Image via WikipediaShown at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, VW’s Bulli combines styling elements from the 1950s VW Type 2 Transporter and their 2001 Microbus concept. Unlike either of these earlier models, the Bulli is quite a bit smaller and meant to compete against the Kia Soul, Scion xB and Nissan Cube. At the same time, a production Bulli wouldn't steal market share away from VW's Chrysler-sourced Routan minivan (a Camper variant of the Bulli would be all but useless).

Image via WikipediaStill, the Bulli’s styling and urban functionality would be enough to lure both former VW Bus owners, as well as a new generation of buyers, into Volkswagen showrooms. …

[Automobile via 4 Wheels News]

Volkswagen Routan: Sporty also-ran van

2011-03-17T10:51:00.002-05:00

Boston Overdrive - Boston.com
Posted by Bill Griffith March 16, 2011 04:55 PM

(All photos: Bill Griffith/Boston.com). Click photo for larger version.
Sometimes one finds the product of a blended family in the automotive world, and that's the case with today's test car, the 2010 Volkswagen Routan SEL Premium. [Scroll down to read the 2011 model's minor changes].
It's the progeny of a brief dalliance between the former owners of Chrysler (Daimler) and Volkswagen. They mated the estimable Chrysler minivan with the VW design department in order to give VW a "people-mover" for its lineup. The result: The Routan. …
However, it doesn't connect the Routan with VW's venerable Vanagons and Eurovans. Also, any resemblance between the Routan and the original VW Microbus surely is wishful thinking.

Click photo for larger version.
The test Routan was a top-of-the-line version with navigation, onboard entertainment system, and an MSRP of $39,300 (including destination). My street tends to have an eclectic assortment of vehicles parked by the curb on any given day, and I managed to pull alongside both a Eurovan and a newer Dodge Grand Caravan to take comparison photos.
The short description of the Routan is that VW gave the Chrysler minivan a restyled nose (quite contemporary), a European-tuned suspension (well done), and upscale interior with seating for seven but minus the popular "Stow 'n Go" seating.
While lacking that popular feature, the second-row captain's chairs are quite comfortable and will fold forward or recline, but not stow away or spin around for "inside" tailgating with folks in the third row (for 2011, Dodge has discontinued the latter "Swivel 'n Go" option).

Click photo for larger version.
The third-row bench seat does fold flat to expand the cargo area, but even when it's upright, there's a deep well that is configured nicely for shopping bags or luggage.
Buttons on the key fob control the sliding doors on either side of the
Routan as well as the power liftgate. All these operations can also be controlled via the overhead console; in addition, the second-row passengers have an open/close button and there's a tailgate closing button on the back doorframe.
The fob also has a remote start feature. …
Most minivan drivers and passengers enjoy those vehicles' inherent high seating position. Mrs. G, however, felt the passenger's seat was both too high and lacking in legroom. The driver's side seat, on the other hand, had power adjustments and plenty of legroom. An annoyance was that the center armrests had to be raised to buckle the seatbelts. The leather seats were comfortable, heated, and gave the minivan a near-luxury feel.
VW's adjustments to the suspension added to that perception. The Routan was stable and predictable on the highway and handled our latest stretch of bad-road test track with aplomb. There was a nice combination of stiffness, spring damping, and sound absorption to make the ride feel decidedly high quality.
The Routan had well-chosen soft-touch dashboard materials with a useful tray in the top center. Instruments were VW-designed with white background (black markings and red needles) and white digital readouts for additional onboard computer information. It was attractive in most situations except when hit by direct sunlight which washed out the digital display and showed just the electronic circuits underneath. The three-zone (left-right-rear) automatic climate control was located low on the center stack and easy to read and use.

Click photo for larger version.
Above that, however, was a standard-issue Chrysler navigation and audio screen. If you own it, you get used to it, but it's tedious for the casual user. The rearview display was needed because rear visibility through the rear quarter windows was blocked by rear headrests.
We averaged a meager 16.9 miles per gallon on a first stretch of mostly city driving but the van seemed to use less gas on a later unmetered highway run.
The 4.0-liter V-6 produced an adequate 253 horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. of torque, sending the power to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. We always felt there was plenty of acceleration available, but the Routan would downshift routinely on big highway climbs, perhaps the result of the vehicle's 4,621 pounds or perhaps in need of recalibrating the shift points.
VW has taken a decidedly low-key marketing approach with this stepchild, which won't help sales with the new Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Kia Sedona, Mazda 5 and Nissan Quest minivans fighting for a segment that the manufacturers are hoping to revitalize.

Click photo for larger version.

2011 updates

Being a single 25-year-old man automatically makes me a poor minivan tester. But when I rented a Grand Caravan with some friends in Arizona a few months ago, I practically saluted it after a 1,000-mile road trip. While minivans look like toasters, there's no other body style that can haul five adults and their gear in total comfort.
In Boston, I was mostly alone driving this 2011 Routan SE, a mid-level trim with vinyl "leatherette," navigation, and rear-seat entertainment. Following the updated 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan, the 2011 Routan shares Chrysler's all-new 3.6-liter V-6, good for 283 horsepower.
A new 6-speed automatic replaces the 5-speed, and during my drive it was quick to kick down and devoid of abrupt shift changes. The steering wheel receives an upgrade, with a thicker, softer leather-covered rim and buttons for the cruise control and trip computer. On the underside at the "9" and "3" positions are cleverly hidden radio controls.
The best part of the Routan is the steering — nicely-weighted, responsive, and connected to the road. As Bill notes, the suspension is truly surprising in its deftness. Most minivans, even the 2011 Honda Odyssey I'm driving now, are languid and write off sporty handling entirely.
But beyond the attractive styling and real aluminum trim on the doors, there's little to convince us the Routan is a Volkswagen. The brand confusion can be seen at night, where switchgear illuminates in VW's bright red and the instrument cluster stays a Chrysler light blue. Unless you find a good deal, there's little reason to prefer a Routan over the 2011 Grand Caravan or Chrysler Town & Country, which I found quite fun to drive on curvy, back roads.
The Routan isn't a bad choice, it's just lacking the competition's higher-quality interiors and flexibility (the Odyssey's cooled drink bin and flip-up trash container, or the new Caravan's sliding center drawer and those trick second-row seats). While the Routan's driving dynamics impress, for the money it's not the best choice in this segment.
— Clifford Atiyeh

AUTOWEEK HONORS VOLKSWAGEN BULLI MICROBUS WITH THE MOST FUN; EDITORS\' CHOICE AWARD FOR THE 2011 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

2011-03-09T14:37:00.003-06:00

Taume News

The new generation Microbus is more sustainable and inspirational than ever
Image via WikipediaHERNDON, Va.— The all-new Volkswagen Bulli concept car was named the "Most Fun" vehicle by Autoweek editors at this year's Geneva Motor Show. The VW Bulli – or Microbus as it's known by beloved fans in the U.S. – offers the same mix of fun and practicality found in VW vans all the way back to the original Bulli created more than 60 years ago.

Image via CrunchBaseWith this latest concept model, Volkswagen finished what it started ten years ago with the Bulli concept of 2001. This latest showstopper seats six on the bench seats that fold down into a large reclining surface. The new and improved vehicle is powered by an electric motor and features an infotainment control via iPad.
The Bulli accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 11.5 seconds, and its top speed is 87 mph (electronically limited). Its range and driving performance not only make the compact vehicle ideal for short distances; but also perfect for longer commutes and recreational activities – with an added bonus of zero tailpipe emissions.
Autoweek's Editors Choice Awards for the 2011 Geneva Motor Show will appear in the March 21 issue of the magazine.
Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Eos, Golf, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2011 Volkswagen vehicles come standard-equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC). This is important because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt.

2010 Volkswagen Routan Long Term Update 4

2011-03-08T11:20:00.002-06:00

Them's the Brakes, Kid
From the April, 2011 issue of Motor Trend
/ By Allyson Harwood
/ Photography by Motor Trend Staff
|

Click to view Gallery
The staff has been impressed with the styling of the Volkswagen version of the Town & Country, agreeing that the Routan has a better-looking exterior than its Dodge or Chrysler siblings and also a more elegant-looking interior. Everyone was just as happy with the interior's versatility and amount of storage space. However, editors are torn over how different the suspension is (VW touts it as having European tuning).
Most comments about this minivan, though, surround two issues: first, why Volkswagen, a company that has generated a cult following for its unique, cool vans over the last 40 years, would settle for a badge-engineered van; and second, what is up with those brakes?

Click to view Gallery
The first subject keeps coming up because of quality issues, many of which were seen in the last Town & Country we had: vibrations felt in the steering wheel, cheap-feeling center console, downmarket cabin materials, and the same problematic nav system as in other Chrysler Corp. products. Yes, badge engineering can save money, but that comes at its own cost.
Regarding the brakes: The Routan wears the same discs as the Chrysler vans (including a past Motor Trend long-termer). It has already gone to the dealer for a brake inspection, which revealed that the brake rotors were warped and needed machining. That was about six months ago, and it sounds like the rotors may again need to be machined. Says testing director Kim Reynolds, "The brakes are warped, but during most normal stopping, it isn't a big deal. A slight pulse can be felt now and then. It's probably during more aggressive stopping that it becomes an issue. We noticed the occasional squeal added to the acoustic festivities. Clearly, these brakes are headed in the same direction as the T&C's (which required major attention at around 19,000 miles). A shame VW didn't insist on an improvement in the brakes before allowing its name to be put on this vehicle."

2010 Volkswagen Routan
Months/miles in service
8/16,933
Avg econ/CO2
18.2 mpg/1.07 lb/mi
Unresolved problems
Recurring front rotor warpage
Maintenance cost
$0 (2-oil change, inspection, rotate tires; 1-replace cabin air filter)
Normal-wear cost
$0
Repair cost
$0 (machine warped brake rotors)

Volkswagen Microbus reborn--again--at Geneva auto show - AutoWeek Magazine

2011-03-01T13:22:00.000-06:00

Volkswagen Microbus reborn--again--at Geneva auto show - AutoWeek Magazine

By DALE JEWETT on 3/01/2011

Volkswagen Microbus (Bulli).
Ten years after Volkswagen hinted at a return of the iconic Microbus, only to cancel the project, it" again.
A new Microbus concept--with an electric drivetrain and seating for six--makes its debut at the Geneva motor show.
VW says this Microbus--known as the Bulli in Europe--has a range of 186 miles on its 40-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. The battery pack is sandwiched in the floor of the van and could be recharged in less than an hour, VW says, at an "electric refueling station" designed for EVs.
Unlike the original Microbus, the concept's electric motor is positioned in front of the vehicle and drives the front wheels. The 114-hp motor delivers 199 lb-ft of torque. VW says the concept would run from 0 to 62 mph in 11.5 seconds. Top speed is limited to 87 mph.
The engine compartment could also hold a small gasoline or diesel engine, VW says.
The concept makes use of heritage design cues, starting with a large, round, chrome VW emblem on its nose.
But, compared with the original from 1950, this Microbus is a bit shorter and wider and doesn't stand as tall. The concept measures 156 inches long with a 102-inch wheelbase, stands 66 inches tall and is 68.4 inches wide.
There is a two-tone paint scheme that breaks at the character line running down the van's side. Also, there are no sliding doors, the concept has two conventional rear doors.
Inside, the Microbus concept seats six people with two bench seats. The front bench seat is split so that the center and passenger positions can fold flat. And the rear bench seat can be folded and stowed to increase cargo room. Or the bench seats can be flattened to create a bed.
A docking station in the center of the instrument panel holds an iPad, which communicates with the steering-wheel controls and gauges. There is no gear shift--a rotary knob selects park, reverse, neutral and drive. Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20110301/GENEVA/110229923#ixzz1FNS9cnR4

Volkswagen Plans For World Domination

2011-02-28T13:20:00.002-06:00

Motor Trend

…How will VW do it? Unless it quickly develops a $30,000 Honda Pilot competitor off the new Passat's platform, plus perhaps a new Microbus-style minivan to replace the Chrysler-based Routan -- two models that combined could add more than 200,000 units to annual sales -- the Passat and Jetta will have to become best-sellers in their segments with sales topping 300,000 per year each. Should total U.S. sales volume not reach 17 million, the 200,000 range is more likely, competitive with Hyundai Sonata, Ford Fusion, and Chevrolet Malibu. That's about 400,000 for Jetta and Passat, just half the '18 goal.

Click to view Gallery
Golf-based Scirocco
Hackenberg and Browning emphasize efforts to improve quality scores in the U.S., long a major problem for the brand. They say much of VW's quality problems relate to design features that confuse and annoy Americans -- an explanation (or excuse) several competitors also use. While they talk about biting into Toyota and Honda sales, they don't mention Hyundai, which expects to sell 590,000 in the U.S. this year, or Kia.
"German engineering still has a very good image in the USA." Hackenberg says. "It is our job, and the job of Mr. Browning, to bring that to the customer."
VW has tried competitive pricing with Japanese brands and "affordable German engineering" in its marketing before, though not both at the same time. A mix of big, low-priced German sedans for the American market, and more interesting cars like the GTI and CC, might work this time. Until it does though, we don't envy Mr. Browning his task.

New Volkswagen Routan Embraces and Enhances Role of Minivan

2011-02-28T13:03:00.002-06:00

Image via Wikipedia New Volkswagen Routan Embraces and Enhances Role of Minivan

by Cambridge PR Group
BRAINTREE, MA (02/28/2011)(readMedia)-- When it comes to questions of what and whom should be brought along on family road trips, the new 2011 Volkswagen Routan answers with a confident "Yes" to everything and anyone. Now available at Greater Boston Volkswagen dealers, the latest Routan offers the space and towing capacity for up to seven adults and their cargo while keeping children, or any adults with similar attention spans, occupied with an abundance of entertainment features.
A virtual home theater system in motion, the 2011 Volkswagen Routan features an available six-disc DVD changer and two nine-inch LCD screens in the second and third rows. An available package offers a second DVD player, so that separate movies can be played to appease the varying tastes of brothers and sisters. For essential road devices such as phones, MP3 players and game consoles, the VW minivan includes 12V power outlets and an available 115 AC outlet to ensure that charging is never an issue.
Every 2011 Routan features a new 3.6-liter engine connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission that provides an efficient 25 mpg on the highway. For added fuel efficiency, the driver can activate a new ECO mode fuel optimization switch that modifies shift patterns.
Meanwhile, the 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque offered by the Volkswagen Routan deliver a smooth, effortless ride no matter how many in-laws or uncles tag along. Or, if drivers just need storage space for groceries, the Routan can provide 144 cubic feet of space with the second row removed and the third row stowed.
"The Routan is not afraid to fully embrace what a minivan can do when it comes to size and function, and it showcases Volkswagen's signature engineering and style," said Jason Thompson, general manager of Massachusetts VW dealer Quirk Volkswagen. "When it comes down to it, most families want as much space and entertainment as possible in their vehicles, but they need a vehicle that's practical and cost-efficient to own. The 2011 Routan satisfies all of those needs."
Since safety remains a particular priority for families, the 2011 Routan now features standard front-row side airbags, a standard knee airbag for drivers and newly designed head restraints for all seats. The Routan's Engine Braking Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System and Electronic Stability Control all supplement its Antilock Braking System to adjust speed, improve traction and reduce the chance of accidents.
The VW Routan's ability to combine function and form helped it to earn the number-one spot in the minivan segment of the recently released Strategic Vision Total Value Index for 2010. The index honors those vehicles that scored the highest based on the opinions of 111,212 people who bought vehicles between September 2009 and June 2010 and who measured their vehicles' perceived value against their purchase prices. With the Golf and CC also leading their segments, Volkswagen was the index's overall leader in total value for the second year in a row.
"No one understands the importance of value more than parents paying for diapers, toys and flu shots, and the Routan provides it to them in so many ways, from pricing and power to reliability, space and entertainment," Thompson added. "The Routan has been a success as a minivan because of its value to families, and the fact that it has been honored by Strategic Vision alongside VW mainstays like the Golf and CC is proof."
About Quirk Volkswagen:
Quirk Volkswagen is the premier Greater Boston Volkswagen dealer. Massachusetts Volkswagen customers choose Quirk for the great service and pricing on new and used VW cars. A dedicated and knowledgeable staff is on hand to show you their extensive selection, with Volkswagen models ranging from the Jetta to the Touareg. You can preview their inventory online at www.quirkvw.com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/QuirkCars, reach them by phone at (877) 624-0143 or visit their dealership showroom at 20 Granite Street in Braintree, Massachusetts.

VW ROUTAN vs DODGE GRAND CARAVAN

2011-01-21T14:44:00.002-06:00

Image via Wikipedia

SEE ALSO: Volkswagen Buyers Guide
SEE ALSO: Dodge Buyers Guide

The Auto Channel site
HEELS ON WHEELS
By Katrina Ramser
San Francisco Bureau
The Auto Channel
INTRO TO THE ROUTAN AND CARAVAN VEHICLES
One well-known minivan – the Dodge Grand Caravan – gets pitted against a relatively newcomer to the family driving market, the Volkswagen Routan. Will German engineering beat American-made machinery? Or will the Routan be revealed as a clone or “Mini-Me” to the Caravan?
Image via CrunchBaseI drove a 2010 VW Routan with a 197-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Available in S, SE, SEL and Premium trims; my SE test drive featured a healthy list of standards for a step above base including an 8-way adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, power-sliding rear doors, tri-zone manual climate control, removable second-row captain's chairs, the upgraded V-tex upholstery, Bluetooth and an upgraded audio system with a 6-CD changer. The addition of the RSE (rear seat entertainment) brought a DVD player, a power liftgate and satellite radio. Total vehicle price came to $33,500. There were no add-on packages to configure.
And I drove a 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan also with a 197-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Available in a base van, SE, Hero and SXT trims; my Hero test drive featured a trip computer, heated exterior mirrors, third-row power ventilated windows, 3-zone temperature control, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifting knob and a 6-speaker audio system with SIRIUS satellite radio. Optional packages included a $1,495 Popular Equipment Group (remote start, power liftgate, passenger-side power sliding doors), a $1,875 Single Screen DVD Entertainment System (6.5-inch touch-screen display, 30GB hard drive for storing songs, backup camera) and a $220 special sliding front console with cup holders. Total vehicle price came to $29,490.
Don’t let the Routan’s slightly different looks fool you: If you haven’t figured it out yet based on engine stats, the minivan is essentially a rebadged of the Caravan. Both feature the … third-row Stow ‘n Go seating system, and identical safety features and results.
HEELS ON WHEELS REVIEW CRITERIA
Stylish But Comfortable Results: Two major interior differences were apparent: The Routan had a nicer or “leatherette” seating material and a navigation system, whereas the Caravan had cloth seating material and no navigation. The dash build inside the Routan is a little larger or expansive, which give a sense of more frontal space. [The Caravan has] the standard Stow 'n Go setup, which consists of a pair of second-row captain's chairs that disappear into the floor along with the third-row bench for a flat floor featuring 140 cubic feet of cargo room. Unfortunately, Stow 'n Go seatbacks aren't as comfortable as larger seats.
Reliability & Safety Factor: Safety features are the same – but I find it odd the Caravan charges for anti-lock brakes (ABS) in their Power Equipment Group. Powertrain and basic warranties are the same. Both feature “Good” rating for frontal and side impact crash tests with the IIHS. But the only minivan on the 2010 IIHS Top Safety Pick is the Toyota Sienna.
Cost Issues: Base price for the Routan starts at $ while base price for the Grand Caravan begins at $21,800. Look into current Dodge incentives. The most surprising thing about the Routan is how affordable VW allowed this minivan to be.
Activity & Performance Ability: The driving experiences of the V6 engines are identical – swift, responsive and quiet. The difference is in the seating. Do you want to sit up high, like a bus driver? Choose the Caravan. The Routan’s driver seat tends to cradle the body more. It has been slighted repeatedly by critics both vehicles cannot compare to the performance of the Honda Odyssey in regards to handling refinement.
The Green Concern: Both vehicles retain 16-city/23-highway driving mpg for an average of 18 mpg – to be expected with a V6 engine. The smaller 4-cylinder found inside the Toyota Sienna can get you 19-city/24-highway driving mpg for about a 2-mpg improvement.
FINAL PARTING WORDS
The Grand Caravan feels a little bland next to the VW Routan’s special German genes that make an un-cool car like a minivan into something sleek and desirable. Furthermore, consumers should not have to pay extra for some of the Caravan’s optional features like a power liftgate, remote start and special cup holders; I also l appreciated how the Routan doesn’t offer such traditional packages but just well-equipped trims. And prices are the same when you consider my Routan test drive was equipped with a touch-screen navigation system and the Caravan test drive was not.
©2010 Katrina Ramser

Volkswagen Routan – Totally Family Friendly

2011-01-21T14:30:00.002-06:00

The Routan is perfect for the kids and even for those who are still kids at heart

PasadenaNow.com
By CANDICE MERRILL with VANESSA TABORA
Published: Friday, January 14, 2011 | 12:30 PM

If you want an minivan that has a great combination of features, then it’s the 2010 Volkswagen Routan SE you’re looking for. It has an interior look similar to that of the Chrysler Town & Country with an exterior that is truly Volkswagen. Upon first impression it offers an amazing commanding view of the road.
The Routan is perfect for the kids and even for those who are still kids at heart. This is because of its rear seat entertainment with DVD screens offered in the second and third rows of the SUV. You can plug in any video game system and it even has a JoyBox hard drive radio feature that is unique to Volkswagen. It carries a capacity of 30 gigabytes which can store thousands of music and image files.
With its third-row stowing seats this minivan has plenty of room to move stuff. The second row seats are also removable if you need to move a whole lot of stuff. It also has plenty of hidden compartments to stow expensive stuff!

This Routan delivers nothing less than the smoothest of rides possible. It handles the bumps well without making the passengers feel a single jolt. The wide turning radius could be a problem in tight quarters, but on the open road the Routan maneuvers adequately.
A nice addition to the SE are the power-sliding rear doors which can be activated by the key fob or interior of the minivan. It seems a bit indulgent but when you need to load groceries in the driving rain you’ll appreciate them.
With a V6, 4.0-liter engine you can expect to reach 60 mph in about 8 seconds. The mileage isn’t bad either for a minivan of it’s size: 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway.
If you want a vehicle that will cruise quietly without all the noise that tires and wind can make, the 2010 Volkswagen Routan SE is worth a look-see. This minivan is totally family friendly and has higher quality interiors than its competition. Its price can be compared to the top of line vehicles in the market today and you can enjoy the 3-year, 36,000 mile free maintenance from Volkswagen.

Volkswagen Routan Back for 2011

2011-01-21T14:18:00.002-06:00

Family Car Guide Blog
By Marty Padgett Editorial Director January 21st, 2011

2009 Volkswagen Routan
Defying some predictions from the rumor mill, the Volkswagen Routan minivan is coming back for the 2011 model year.
Since it shares running gear with the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, the 2011 Routan gets similar updates, starting with the upgraded powertrain. This year, the offering is a 3.8-liter Pentastar V-6, teamed up with a six-speed automatic. The Routan's 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque are delivered to the front wheels.
The usual front, side and curtain airbags are fitted, with anti-lock brakes and stability control.
The Routan's been praised as a higher-quality version of the Chrysler minivans, but with the improvements to those vans, we're eager to see photos of the Routan. (The 2009 model is pictured here.) VW promises they're coming soon--but in the meantime, pricing has also been revealed:
Routan S: $26,930
Standard features include manual sliding side doors, cruise control, ambient lighting, AM/FM/CD with auxiliary audio jack, power windows/locks/mirrors, and cloth seats. In this edition, the second and third-row seats fold, and the second row captain's chairs are removable. Again this year, the Routan omits Chrysler's Stow 'N Go fold-away seating system, but the storage tubs that would contain seats in the Chryslers are fitted to the Routan's floor.
Routan SE: $31,770
Adds power sliding side doors, a power driver seat, heated mirrors, 17-inch wheels, power-adjustable pedals, a CD changer and Bluetooth, front heated seats, and vinyl upholstery.
Routan SE w/ RSE: $33,790
Adds on a rearview camera, a touchscreen-driven audio system with satellite radio, hard-drive storage and a USB port. The RSE stands for "rear-seat entertainment"--which means twin LCD screens and a back-seat DVD entertainment system with gaming ports.
Routan SE w/RSE and Nav: $34,750
Incorporates a navigation system.
Routan SEL: $37,390
Tops off other editions with a standard sunroof, automatic climate control, navigation system, satellite radio, USB port and real-time traffic. There's no DVD system, but leather upholstery applies to the first two rows of seats, and the rear end gets a load-leveling suspension.
Routan SEL w/RSE: $39,390
Adds back in the DVD entertainment system.
Routan SEL Premium: $43,240
Comes with a premium sound system, a 115-volt power outlet, memory for the power-adjustable pedals, and dual front power seats

December 2020 YTD Sales Figures

2011-01-21T14:11:00.000-06:00

Volkswagen of America, Inc. today reported that December 2010 marked a 17 percent increase over prior year sales for the entire line of vehicles. In addition, 2010 achieved a 20 percent increase over 2009 total year sales. Increased sales numbers resulted in best annual sales since 2003 and best December sales since 2005.

With the growing popularity of Volkswagen's SUV models, the Tiguan achieved its best month ever, selling 2,551 vehicles, a 42 percent increase from the same month last year. Bolstered by the all-new model, the Volkswagen Touareg ended the year positively with a 68 percent increase compared to 2009. Other top selling vehicles included the Jetta with a 34 percent increase, Golf with a 72 percent increase and Routan with a 50 percent increase compared to December 2009.

PRNewswire published the December and YTD sales figures of the auto-makers who sell in the U.S. From these reports, we glean the following data:

Brand YTD - 12/10

Chrysler   112,275

Dodge      103,323

Honda      108,182

Kia         21,823

Mazda       15,683

Nissan         177 (discontinued)

Toyota      98,337

Volkswagen 15,961

Total      475,761
Volkswagen's market share of van sales is 3.35%, in the target range declared when the Routan was introduced.

CHRYSLER

2010-12-30T13:36:00.003-06:00

Image via Wikipedia

Toralt on Cars

Image by Getty Images via @daylifeThe next generation of Chrysler minivan is not due until 2014, but the strength of its two current offerings raises the question of whether the automaker should maintain both nameplates. "We are still studying whether we need two minivans in the future", said Ralph Gilles, head of design and of the Dodge brand. … Gilles said his team worked hard to better differentiate the two minivans for 2011. "We split the range by how they look, equipment and content", he said. "The two minivans have a very different mission". …

Image via WikipediaEarly next year, Dodge will add its "man van", an R/T performance version with a macho black interior, including the headliner, and red stitching. "It’s an itch I’ve wanted to scratch for a long time", Gilles said. The minivans also have been divided up by price: The Town & Country, with greater content, competes at $30,000 and up and the Dodge at $30,000 and below. The effect on their respective sales will be closely monitored before a decision is made. "This year is the moment of truth for both brands", Gilles said. The latest minivans also took pointers from the Volkswagen Routan, which shares underpinnings and engines with the Chrysler models and is built in the same plant. Critics have said the Routan has a nicer interior and more dynamic handling. "I asked my guys why our suspension was not tuned the same way", Gilles said, and then told them "make ours better". For 2011, Chrysler’s Stow ‘n Go seating has been improved with softer seats and the Swivel ‘n’ Go feature has been discontinued. Buyers can also opt for luxury quad seating in the second row, similar to the Routan’s layout. "The Town & Country is a comeback story", said Francois. And deserved, said Charlie Vogelheim, analyst with IntelliChoice. "Chrysler is not winning the sales race because it was first to market, but for continuing to improve the product", Vogelheim said. "They haven’t been resting on their laurels and are back on the shopping list of the public". …

Magical Moments (Part 1)

2010-12-30T13:13:00.002-06:00

Completely Bananas

So much has happened since my last blog, 2 weeks ago. Currently we are enduring blizzard conditions that decided to strike Asheville on Christmas day...This blog will focus on a much happier subject, namely the best week of my life thus far.
On Friday December 17th at 4:45am, we loaded two toddlers, half of our house and a ton of Image via Wikipediasnacks into the Vdub van and set our GPS for Lake Buena Vista, Florida- the home of the most magical place on earth, Disney World. After making only ONE stop for gas at the Florida Welcome Center we pulled into our condo 10 hours, 15 minutes and 6 Disney movies later. The trip, all things considered, really wasn't too bad. Ah, the luxuries of two DVD players, a minivan and my own private row in the back where no one can see me. The Volkswagon Routan makes certain that parents and kids get to travel in complete comfort, even for 10 hours and 15 minutes.

Our 2009 VW Routan Review

2010-12-28T16:33:00.002-06:00

The Sayo Family Blog

Posted by darwin on December 28, 2010
I really like it. …
The Drive
It’s smooth. It goes from one gear to another very smoothly. It doesn’t roar to life and accelerate in an explosive way like our old Xterra but that’s not why we bought it for. I keep seeing reviews putting down it’s 197 hp but if you want more horsepower and performance buy a car! I recently took it to San Francisco for the first time and it performed quite well. I didn’t once in frustration say “Come on go!” going up Van Ness. There’s a “manual” mode to where you can shift up or down. It gets a little getting used to but handy. It’s supposedly VW tuned so the drive is a little more responsive.
Driver
I feel very comfortable in the drivers seat. The windshield seems so huge.
It took a couple days to get the seat just right because there is so much play in the seat settings.
The steering wheel seems so much bigger. I do like the leather wrapped steering wheel on this van as opposed to a non leather wrapped one. It feels very nice and smooth. I never thought I’d ever appreciate such a thing.
All the controls are in arms reach. … The Routan has [auto] up and down on the drivers and passenger side windows.
On the other side of the steering wheel are controls for the radio. I like this so much better because it doesn’t make you look for the buttons thus taking your eyes off the road. The Stereo is a bit far away so the buttons are very handy.
The stereo is not bluetooth enabled, a feature I told myself I absolutely needed, so I can’t connect my phone to it … [Bluetooth was standard on some models in 2009, and is standard on all models in 2010.—DMW]
Passengers
Seats six passegers or three cars seats. Can only take one car seat in the third row with room for a passenger next to the car seat. So if you have four kids that need to be in car seats this car is not for you.
I like that the passenger windows go down and the rear windows will slightly wedge open too for more ventilation.
Cabin noise is so much better than our Xterra. That’s also due to the fact that it has less horsepower.
Conclusion
I’m not a great car reviewer but I really do like this van. The two things I would change if I could would have been adding the OEM entertainment system and an automatic lift gate.

2011 Routan list of updates and upgrades

2010-12-13T16:40:00.000-06:00

Image by Getty Images via @daylifeAsk a VW salesguy's Blog has the list of changes for the 2011 Routan. Most are minor upgrades. One thing that is surprising is the switch to the new Chrysler 3.6L engine from both the 3.8L and 4.0L. The new "Pentastar" engine is supposed to be a good performer--and many people complained about the old pushrod 3.8L. I own a 4.0L and am very happy with it. It gets higher gas mileage than the 3.8L. I hope the 3.6L doesn't give up too much in torque and power.Image via Wikipedia

2014 Volkswagen Microbus Illustrations

2010-12-10T14:46:00.002-06:00

VW Operations 101: Piëch always gets his way—even if it takes 12 years.

Car and Driver
BY JENS MEINERS, ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTIAN SCHULTE
December 2010
Pages: 1 Photos

Photos (16)
Image by SOCIALisBETTER via FlickrRemember the Microbus concept Volkswagen brought to the Detroit auto show in 2001? Styled under the direction of former VW design chief Hartmut Warkuß and a pet project of erstwhile VW CEO Ferdinand Piëch, it fell out of favor when Bernd Pischetsrieder took over as CEO and installed his own design head. Although the van had moved close to production—VW even had a plant in mind to build it—its lines did not fit former Peugeot and Mercedes designer Murat Günak's styling language, and the project was cancelled in 2006.
Piëch must have made a mental note, because now the Microbus is back, on the front-wheel-drive platform of the Touran, a Golf-derived compact minivan not sold in the U.S. The retro-futuristic van likely will be just slightly smaller than the original concept, but look nearly identical. It will be unveiled in 2013, and production is expected to start in 2014.
Motivation for the new Microbus will come from several engines in VW’s parts bin, including four-cylinder gas and turbo-diesels. Power will be channeled to the front wheels through a manual transmission or VW's six- or seven-speed dual-clutch gearboxes. All-wheel drive is a possibility, and VW might build a range-extended EV version in the style of the Chevrolet Volt.
U.S. sales are almost a certainty. The New Beetle had its greatest successes here, and the old "Lovebus"—which you can still buy new in Brazil as the Kombi—is still fondly remembered. Production of the Microbus will coincide with the launch of another new, bigger van, a replacement for the Chrysler-supplied Routan to be built in Tennessee on VW's own platform. It just goes to show that, in its race for world domination, VW will be paying equal attention to mainstream and niche. For that, we are grateful.

Volkswagen: What's New for 2011

2010-12-08T16:14:00.002-06:00

Edmund's Inside Line

Image via Wikipedia2011 Volkswagen Routan: Volkswagen's minivan gets a new engine — the 283-hp, 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that's also new to the Chrysler minivans for 2011. This new V6 is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Volkswagen has also made some mild revisions to the Routan's cabin.

Heels on Wheels: Minivan Comparison: VW ROUTAN vs DODGE GRAND CARAVAN

2010-12-08T13:56:00.002-06:00

SEE ALSO: Volkswagen Buyers Guide
SEE ALSO: Dodge Buyers Guide
The Auto Channel
HEELS ON WHEELS
By Katrina Ramser
San Francisco Bureau
The Auto Channel
INTRO TO THE ROUTAN AND CARAVAN VEHICLES
One well-known minivan – the Dodge Grand Caravan – gets pitted against a relatively newcomer to the family driving market, the Volkswagen Routan. Will German engineering beat American-made machinery? Or will the Routan be revealed as a clone or “Mini-Me” to the Caravan?
Image via CrunchBaseI drove a 2010 VW Routan with a 197-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Available in S, SE, SEL and Premium trims; my SE test drive featured a healthy list of standards for a step above base including an 8-way adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, power-sliding rear doors, tri-zone manual climate control, removable second-row captain's chairs, the upgraded V-tex upholstery, Bluetooth and an upgraded audio system with a 6-CD changer. The addition of the RSE (rear seat entertainment) brought a DVD player, a power liftgate and satellite radio. Total vehicle price came to $33,500. There were no add-on packages to configure.
And I drove a 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan also with a 197-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Available in a base van, SE, Hero and SXT trims; my Hero test drive featured a trip computer, heated exterior mirrors, third-row power ventilated windows, 3-zone temperature control, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifting knob and a 6-speaker audio system with SIRIUS satellite radio. Optional packages included a $1,495 Popular Equipment Group (remote start, power liftgate, passenger-side power sliding doors), a $1,875 Single Screen DVD Entertainment System (6.5-inch touch-screen display, 30GB hard drive for storing songs, backup camera) and a $220 special sliding front console with cup holders. Total vehicle price came to $29,490.
Don’t let the Routan’s slightly different looks fool you: If you haven’t figured it out yet based on engine stats, the minivan is essentially a rebadged of the Caravan. Both feature the second and third-row Stow ‘n Go seating system, and identical safety features and results.
HEELS ON WHEELS REVIEW CRITERIA
Stylish But Comfortable Results: Two major interior differences were apparent: The Routan had a nicer or “leatherette” seating material and a navigation system, whereas the Caravan had cloth seating material and no navigation. The dash build inside the Routan is a little larger or expansive, which give a sense of more frontal space. Both vehicles have the standard Stow 'n Go setup, which consists of a pair of second-row captain's chairs that disappear into the floor along with the third-row bench for a flat floor featuring 140 cubic feet of cargo room. Unfortunately, Stow 'n Go seatbacks aren't as comfortable as larger seats.
Reliability & Safety Factor: Safety features are the same – but I find it odd the Caravan charges for anti-lock brakes (ABS) in their Power Equipment Group. Powertrain and basic warranties are the same. Both feature “Good” rating for frontal and side impact crash tests with the IIHS. But the only minivan on the 2010 IIHS Top Safety Pick is the Toyota Sienna.
Cost Issues: Base price for the Routan starts at $ while base price for the Grand Caravan begins at $21,800. Look into current Dodge incentives. The most surprising thing about the Routan is how affordable VW allowed this minivan to be.
Activity & Performance Ability: The driving experiences of the V6 engines are identical – swift, responsive and quiet. The difference is in the seating. Do you want to sit up high, like a bus driver? Choose the Caravan. The Routan’s driver seat tends to cradle the body more. It has been slighted repeatedly by critics both vehicles cannot compare to the performance of the Honda Odyssey in regards to handling refinement.
The Green Concern: Both vehicles retain 16-city/23-highway driving mpg for an average of 18 mpg – to be expected with a V6 engine. The smaller 4-cylinder found inside the Toyota Sienna can get you 19-city/24-highway driving mpg for about a 2-mpg improvement.
FINAL PARTING WORDS
The Grand Caravan feels a little bland next to the VW Routan’s special German genes that make an un-cool car like a minivan into something sleek and desirable. Furthermore, consumers should not have to pay extra for some of the Caravan’s optional features like a power liftgate, remote start and special cup holders; I also l appreciated how the Routan doesn’t offer such traditional packages but just well-equipped trims. And prices are the same when you consider my Routan test drive was equipped with a touch-screen navigation system and the Caravan test drive was not.
©2010 Katrina Ramser

November 2010 YTD Sales Figures

2010-12-07T16:40:00.000-06:00

Volkswagen's Routan achieved a 98.5% increase and Golf and Tiguan also experienced strong increases in sales compared to November 2009.

Volkswagen's TDI clean diesel models had another strong month with 4,304 total sales.

"It's no surprise the all-new Jetta and Touareg models did well for November but it's also good to see increases from models such as the Routan, Tiguan and Golf," said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "Our TDI clean diesel products continue to gain popularity as customers realize the benefit of this product."

PRNewswire published the November and YTD sales figures of the auto-makers who sell in the U.S. From these reports, we glean the following data:

Brand YTD - 11/10

Chrysler   102,495

Dodge       89,057

Honda       98,035

Kia         20,151

Mazda       14,892
Nissan         177 (discontinued)
Toyota      89,509
Volkswagen 14,714

Total      429,030
Volkswagen's market share of van sales is 3.43%, in the target range declared when the Routan was introduced.

Dr. Ulrich Hackenberd-Volkswagen Routan – Cool Video

2010-12-07T16:21:00.000-06:00

31 Days of Cool Cars and Hot Savings: Day 3 | TrueCar Blog

2010-12-06T18:07:00.002-06:00

Friday, December 3, 2010 5:00 am
Image via CrunchBaseTrueCar Blog

Welcome to Day 3 of TrueCar.com’s 31 Days of Savings. Yesterday we featured the luxury of Lexus, the simplicity of Mitsubishi and the fuel economy of Chevrolet. So far, we have featured 5 cars that offer at least a 10% discount, with discounts as high as 24%. Now is a great time to buy.
As a reminder, the following needs to be remembered when considering these deals:
• Incentives and leasing programs are subject to change and should be confirmed with your dealer
• Many of the 2010 models are great deals because they are in short supply, check with your dealer for inventory
• Many of the 2011 models are just becoming great deals as 2010s go completely away
• Advertised lease specials can be improved upon, as we have stated previously
…
Deal #2: 2010 Volkswagen Routan S
Image via WikipediaThough the TV show Lost featured the iconic VW van in full-on retro mode over the course of its 6 years, most people stopped thinking about Volkswagen as a maker of minivans sometime after Woodstock. But the manufacturer still makes outstanding vehicles and, though this might be in short supply because of model year changeover, getting your hands on one is a great buy. The TrueCar average price is $23,082, which represents a 14% discount from MSRP.

The MA List: 6 Concept Cars That Cried Wolf!

2010-12-06T17:49:00.002-06:00

The Car Connection

Source: MotorAuthority.com

2001 Volkswagen Microbus concept
Enlarge Photo
Concept cars are a mixed breed. Sometimes, they're the real thing slightly disguised, and sometimes they're way-off abstractions in the Tomorrowland vein.
In a handful of cases, concept cars are annoying knock-offs of the boy who cried wolf, without the bit that makes the fairy tale appealing. You know, the part where the boy gets eaten.
Image via WikipediaNow, to be fair, there's more reality in most any concept car than in an episode of Operation Repo. We can't remember how many times Honda or Lexus has placed a production-ready car on an auto-show stand and called it a "concept"--think Model X, LF-A. And even among the purest flights of fancy, there are some ideas that spring to life from them.
With auto show season in full swing, we're already hearing new talk about old trial balloons that have floated overhead, sometimes for most of the past decade, promising to take up real production-line space but never following up on those empty threats. These are the ones we'll have a hard time believing are real until someone can actually document a registration down at the local DMV.
The list of repeat offenders isn't too long, and some of them truly are lovely to contemplate. Still, we don't want to hear any more from these six concepts until they're ready to do something, or get off the pot. Or until they're eaten.
2001 Volkswagen Microbus
Image via WikipediaThis week's prattling on about a new Microbus has only reminded us of the long, sad history of VW concept vans. Yes, we were there when the 2001 concept captivated Detroit (!). And then it went dormant. A decade's worth of teasing didn't help--and neither did the 2009 Routan, an anti-Bus if there ever were one. Back in 2008, we gave you plenty of reasons to doubt the return of Microbus, but now it's VW teasing once more. With a new mid-size sedan coming, it's not out of the question that a big crossover with a Microbus badge might emerge from Chattanooga--but that flat-faced front end is a killer to recreate. And if it can't be done, is the result really a Microbus?

Pick of the Week: 2010 Volkswagen Routan

2010-11-29T14:42:00.002-06:00

Edmunds Daily

Chrysler may like to think that it invented the minivan. And while Chrysler does deserve credit for moving minivans into the mainstream, Volkswagen was selling its funky minivans decades earlier. But after VW decided to discontinue its own minivan in 2003 (due mostly to currency concerns), it was left without a competitive entry in the segment.
So perhaps it was a bit ironic that VW chose to badge-engineer a Chrysler minivan to sell as its own in 2009, in the form of the Routan. While its Chrysler/Dodge DNA might not be the most elite in the minivan lineage, last year they racked up nearly 200,000 sales, so it is not a bad place to start. Unfortunately, not only have the Chrysler Group minivans been updated for the 2011 model year, but competing models from Honda and Toyota have also undergone total redesigns recently. Without any improvements of its own, VW is left to offer bigger incentives on the Routan.

Now through January 3, 2011, VW is offering zero percent financing for up to 72 months (that's six years to you and me). Those looking to lease will find lease rates as low as 1 percent, along with lease cash ranging from $2,750 to $4,250 (depending on model).
Let's hope Chrysler's initial myriad minivan quality issues have been addressed in the Routan. But even putting that aside, it's important to recognize that this is not a segment-leading minivan. It's a competent people mover with a hint of European flair, but rival models like the Honda Odyssey, Kia Sedona and Toyota Sienna will serve the typical minivan buyer better. Then again, none of those are offering 72 months of free financing. For the latest incentives and rebates, click here.

Jimmy the Gun: Autoblog Takes Away My Thunder...VW Microbus

2010-11-23T11:40:00.002-06:00

Jimmy the Gun

I started writing this post yesterday, but I was on kid duty and ran out of time to finish it. Then today I see that Autoblog tweeted about VW's design chief saying a new Microbus is in the cards. While that announcement is SOOOO exciting, it takes away my thunder. But, I'm still posting this because I know my loyal fans need something new to read, as my blog has been lacking entries for a few weeks now.
Why don't I know how to use Photoshop? I need to know how to use it. I have so many ideas (I think are great) for vehicle revisions. Take Volkswagen for example. They created the Microbus in the 1950's. Now, they've moved to a modified Dodge Caravan, completely losing their focus on European design and ingenuity. Why? Because they think Americans want more crap? I don't know. But Dodge was sure not the way I would have gone. Look at the original Microbus or "Bus" as so many people call them.

This is a totally cool looking van. If it was modernized, like the Beetle (or "Bug") was, the Microbus could take a whole segment of vehicles retro and make the "minivan mom's" seem cool again. Nissan and Toyota redesigned their vans, but VW has the retro game down. And, because VW has the nostalgia of the Bus, they could get away with some really cool things. A few years back, they did come out with a Microbus concept, but it didn't take off for a few reasons.

First, VW did not do a great job with the headlights. The original are round, not thin slices. I'm not sure I would want the same style as the original, but something that is reminiscent of the old style would work better. Here is why the round doesn't work:

Second, although pushing the wheels out to the edges is one of the things I love about VW's, this concept pushed the wheels beyond the outer edge to where they had to design fenders that popped out too far too. Also, the rear wheels seem to be falling off the back of the van.
I do love that it is really close to the same shape as the original. I love that there are vents in similar places to the original. I love that inside it has some of the things the Bus is famous for, tables, movable chairs, etc.

I'm not sure about safety issues or why the engine can't be in the rear, except for the fact that this would never be built as a rear wheel drive vehicle, but it would be awesome if they built it that way. If they did this, they could push the driver forward even more, giving that "no nose" front end to the van. Again, safety standards today may require a crumple zone in front to provide protection for the driver and front passenger, but I just wanted to mention it. In reality, this is going to be a front or all wheel drive vehicle and the engine placement would work better in the front.
VW did have the Vanagon and the Eurovan, which were both pretty unsuccessful here in the USA, but they are more true to VW style than the current Routan, which is based on the Dodge Caravan. The Vanagon and Eurovan were more boxy than rounded like the Microbus, but they had some of the VW interior queues that made these vans really practical. This van still exists (not here in the USA) and its latest form is shown in these two pictures (silver is standard, black is customized). I actually like these as a starting point for the new Microbus.

Finally, I'm not going to hold my breath for the new Microbus. I've talked about it before and it hasn't happened yet. I think the concept came out in 2001. And now, here we are 10 years later and we have a Dodge Caravan to show for it. Yuck! So here's my standard letter to the company, as though they read my blog:
Dear Volkswagen,

First let me say, I learned to drive on a 1976 Diesel Rabbit, I purchased a 1999 VW "New Golf" as my first new car purchase, and I'm now wishing I could replace my '99 (which is over 190K miles) with a 2011 Golf. I love your company. I believe you know how to make vehicles that are fun to drive. I believe you know retro. I think that American's love retro too. The Beetle was a success, and other companies have had huge success with retro designs as well (Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, Chevy Camaro).

It's time for a Microbus, one for those of us who need the capabilities of a van without all the ugly minivan stereotypes. The VW Microbus could be that answer. Take design queues from the old Microbus with modern family traits from today's T5 model. Make us a retro style Microbus that no one will consider "just another minivan."

Do it right VW. Do it well. Make me proud to be a fan, a family man, and a future Microbus owner.

Sincerely,

Jimmy the Gun

Quit Teasing: VW Says New Microbus Back on Design Table

2010-11-22T15:57:00.002-06:00

Motor Trend Magazine

We know that a new New Beetle is certainly in Volkswagen's future product plans, but a new Microbus? The ever-expanding German automaker is once again teasing the automotive world with visions of a new-generation model sporting the legendary nameplate, but is far from deciding which direction it would take if indeed it brought it back.

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"I would not be doing my job at Volkswagen properly if I was not thinking of bringing back the Camper," Klaus Bischoff, head of design for the entire Volkswagen brand, recently told British publication Auto Express.

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This isn't exactly the first time Volkswagen has looked into tapping into its history to create a minivan chock full of nostalgia. In 2001, the company cranked out a retro concept which mated styling inspired by the first-generation Transporter with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive platform, a 3.2-liter V-6, and plenty of interior luxuries.
Image via WikipediaThe design was reportedly under consideration to replace the EuroVan here in the U.S., but Bischoff confirms development and manufacturing costs quickly killed the project. VW later adapted the Chrysler-based Routan to fill the minivan gap within its North American portfolio, but it hasn't exactly abandoned the idea of a modern Microbus. A resto-mod Chameleon concept (based off a 1964 Samba) appeared in 2006 to showcase a number of advanced technologies, while the 2007 SpaceUp! concept bore an eerie resemblance to the scuttled 2001 show car.
Bischoff notes designers are indeed working on a new 'Bus, but at this stage, they're still facing a number of difficult decisions. It's one thing to make a vehicle look like an old Microbus, but would such a basic, utilitarian vehicle fly in today's market, which demands tech-laden, family-friendly people movers? Should VW create a luxobus that abandons the funky flexibility of the original -- and, subsequently, Microbus purists?
"The key question is 'what sort of car should we build,'" notes Bischoff. "It could be a traditional MPV with a conventional interior, or we could be much bolder, designing a more flexible, versatile machine -- perhaps one that is closer in spirit to the original model. It is not yet decided."
Neither, it seems, is styling. Bischoff notes that, despite the Microbus' spiritual connection to North America, the current design "is very much a European project." Volkswagen's California design studios -- which, arguably, sparked the company's retro love affair by birthing the Concept 1 in 1994 -- will help contribute to the design, as will several of the automaker's global design facilities.
Will we see one? Seeing as the concept isn't anywhere close to completion, we'd argue it's far too soon to be discussing a production version. Still, if VW sees fit to push the new Microbus into production, we wouldn't likely see it on our shores until well after 2014.
What do you think, should VW finally bring back the Microbus? If so, what form should it take?
Source: Auto Express

The Continental: ... Some News from ... VW

2010-11-22T15:34:00.002-06:00

Car and Driver Blog

Image via Wikipedia

VW Coupe to Come, Routan to Stay

Image via WikipediaVW is planning to put the NCC (New Compact Coupe) into production. The two-door Jetta was shown as a concept in Detroit this January and will be built in Tennessee. That plant might also build the successor of the Routan down the road, which will be based on one of VW’s car platforms. But the current Routan, a derivative of the Chrysler minivan, will stay in production until mid-2014.

October 2010 YTD Sales of Routan

2010-11-15T13:42:00.000-06:00

Image via Wikipedia

In addition to the Jetta, Volkswagen's Routan, Golf and GTI models had increases in sales compared to October 2009. The Routan sold 1,103 units, a 64.9 percent increase from the same month last year.

PRNewswire published the October and YTD sales figures of the auto-makers who sell in the U.S. From these reports, we glean the following data:

Brand          YTD - 10/10
Chrysler       95,952
Dodge          83,158
Honda          89,230
Kia            18,872
Mazda          14,039
Nissan            177 (discontinued)
Toyota         81,384
Volkswagen     13,642

Total         396,454

Volkswagen's market share of vane sales is 3.44%, in the target range declared when the Routan was introduced.

Volkswagen Routan

2010-11-12T13:37:00.003-06:00

Image via Wikipedia

{Note-The picture below that accompanied the article is actually of the European Sharan. I inserted a picture of the Routan above.—DMW}

Hartford Courant.com
By JIM MACPHERSON
November 10, 2010
Image via WikipediaThe collaboration between Volkswagen and Chrysler, which produced the VW Routan minivan, has raised eyebrows. Here we have Volkswagen, which introduced Americans to the practicality of a small van built on a car's platform in the 1950s and Ô60s (it was known as the Type 2, Transporter or microbus). And Chrysler reintroduced the small-van concept to Americans with its Voyager and Caravan models in 1984.
The collaboration between these two companies probably had as much to do with personalities as with historical synergy. Wolfgang Bernhard had worked with Dieter Zetsche, the former head of Chrysler back in the DaimlerChrysler days. Bernhard moved on to Volkswagen at about the same time the decision was made to go with the Chrysler platform for Volkswagen's next minivan. Called the Routan, it arrived in 2009.
Four models of the Routan are offered: the base S, SE, SEL and SEL Premium. The S and SE models feature a 3.8-liter V-6. The SEL models use a 4.0-liter V-6. Both engines use a six-speed automatic transmission. All models have front-wheel drive and three rows of seating.
Even the base S model is nicely equipped with tri-zone manual air conditioning complete with rear-seat controls. The S model also has power windows, remote control locks and heated mirrors. Much of the safety equipment that is expected of new cars is present, too, including side curtain air bags, electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, tire pressure monitoring and daytime running lights.
SE models add heated front seats with good looking vinyl upholstery - most people think it is leather. Other extras are very handy power adjustable pedals, a power driver's seat, and an upgrade to second-row bucket seats rather than a split-and-folding bench seat.
The SEL model features automatic three-zone climate control, leather upholstery, a navigation system with a backup camera, a power sunroof and power third-row folding seats.
The SEL Premium includes a rear seat DVD player, rear obstacle detection, memory for the driver's seat, mirrors and pedals, roof rails, fog lights and xenon headlights.
Our review vehicle had all of these features along with the 4.0-liter V-6.
Of more importance, our Routan diverged from its Chrysler cousins in several important ways. First, the suspension feels a little tighter and less relaxed over bumps and pavement undulations. The result is a steadier ride without harshness. Handling also feels a little sharper with less lean in corners.
Volkswagen has used a mix of hard and soft-to-the-touch plastics inside, all of which look very good. Our review vehicle was nicely assembled, too. Only the center console, which is a little too flexible, could stand some work.
Another interior upgrade is to be found in the second row seating. Some people may consider this a step down, but the Chrysler Stow 'n Go seats are absent. Our review SEL Premium came with second row bucket seats that would not flip, fold and disappear beneath the floor to form a flat load floor for cargo. Instead, the seats in the Routan must be removed for carrying larger items. Although they might be less flexible, these seats were much more comfortable than the Stow 'n Go seating they replaced. For buyers who have to transport adults in the second row, the Volkswagen approach seems preferable. It is certainly more comfortable. Volkswagen uses the compartments that normally hold the folded second row seats for two large and convenient under-floor storage bins.
The Routan's third row seat does flip, fold and tumble into a well at the rear of the vehicle to form a flat load floor for cargo. In the SEL models this is accomplished with the push of a button. The third row seats will accommodate adults, but it is probably a good idea to keep the trip short. Also, the well at the rear of the vehicle that holds this third row seat when folded is perfect for holding grocery bags.
Acceleration from the 4.0-liter V-6 is more than sufficient. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, too, producing a run to 60 miles per hour that required just 8.7 seconds. Fuel economy, considering the size of the vehicle, was reasonable. In our first Routan, we averaged 18.8 miles per gallon. This time out, the fuel economy came to 18.1 miles per gallon.
Paula says:
Parked in our garage, the Routan seems large. It fits easily enough, but its length and height are substantial. On the road, however, it feels much smaller. It is easy to maneuver in parking lots and surprisingly hassle-free in traffic. The backup camera is a help, with an image of what is behind displayed on the navigation system's screen while in reverse.
The power front driver's seat is also worthy of mention. It allows shorter drivers to raise the seat quite high in order to gain excellent visibility ahead and around the mirrors. Combined with the power adjusted pedals, this minivan should fit just about everyone.
I would have to adjust to the shift lever, which is mounted on the instrument panel. At least it is out of the way of the generally easy-to-use controls.
The interior is cavernous with the third row seat folded. I am hard-pressed to imagine that there would be too many times that the second row seats would have to be removed. There is 83 cubic feet of space with these seats in place; 140 cubic feet with them removed.
Jim MacPherson is the host of "The Car Doctor" show airing Sundays at noon on WTIC-AM. Paula MacPherson is his wife and new-car review partner. Send comments, questions, suggestions in care of Special Publications, Hartford Courant, 285 Broad St., Hartford, CT 06115, or email jdee@courant.com.
This content was prepared by the Marketing Department of The Hartford Courant without involvement of the News Department

The 2010 Volkswagen Routan ranks 5 out of 7 Minivans

2010-11-11T15:34:00.002-06:00

automotivesnews.com

The 2010 Volkswagen Routan ranks 5 out of 7 Minivans. This ranking is based on our analysis of 13 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Routan, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Volkswagen teamed up with Chrysler to produce the Routan. Like the partnership that created it, the Routan is something of a mixed bag.
The Routan is a VW, albeit one that’s heavily based on the Chrysler minivans — the Chrysler Town & Country and the Dodge Grand Caravan. With the Routan, VW tried to reverse that trend, taking a tried and true minivan platform, retuning the suspension for more exciting driving and upgrading the interior with nicer materials from VW’s parts bin.

Reviewers say that while the Routan drives slightly better than the Chrysler minivans, it still lags the Honda Odyssey. Inside, while the VW materials help the interior, some reviewers say that simply slapping nice coverings on a Chrysler interior is sort of like putting lipstick on a pig.
Despite these setbacks, however, the Routan has some strong points. Though reviewers say the Odyssey outperforms the Routan, it’s only by a matter of degrees, and the Routan has a lower starting price. Finally, the Routan has very good crash test scores. And while the Routan’s warranty isn’t longer than its competitors, it’s the only minivan to offer free scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles.

The bottom line is, if you’re shopping minivans, the Routan is a solid choice, but so is almost every other van in the class. The Routan comes in four trims: the S base model, the SE, the SEL and the SEL Premium. The Routan was all-new in 2009.

2010 Volkswagen Routan Long Term Update 2

2010-11-08T16:52:00.002-06:00

Motor Trend
November 03, 2010
/ By Allyson Harwood
/ Photography by Mike Shaffer
|

Click to view Gallery
Executive editor Ed Loh recently used the Routan as a tour bus, lugging six friends to major tourist spots in the Los Angeles area, including Philippe's the Original (best French dip sandwiches in town), Olvera Street, and Chinatown, plus Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Rodeo Drive, and the Farmers Market.
Image via WikipediaThe visitors, a family from France, own a Renault Espace and are familiar with the Euro-market Volkswagen Touran (swap the T and the R and you know where VW got the name Routan). They were impressed by the dual fold-down LCD screens, headphones, remote controls, and power sliding doors and cargo door. "The Routan was admired by our French friends. Though access to the backseat for the three kids was a bit inelegant, we were able to fit nearly 6-foot-tall Antoine, 11-year-old Nicolas, and 6-year-old Louise in the third row."

2010 Volkswagen Routan
Months/miles in service
5/10,399
Avg econ/CO2
18.0 mpg/1.08 lb/mile
Unresolved problems
None
Maintenance cost
$0 (oil change/inspection/rotate tires, plus machined warped brake rotors)
Normal-wear cost
$0

Volkswagen's U.S. Sales Grow 17.9 Percent in October 2010

2010-11-03T17:23:00.002-05:00

Green Hotel : Bangkok Thailand

Volkswagen's U.S. operations posted a strong sales increase in September 2010, but the company continued its march forward with an equally impressive October showing. Last month, the German automaker reported a 17.9-percent increase over the same period last year.

VW of America's U.S. deliveries totaled 20,084 vehicles in October 2010, 3047 cars more than the brand moved last October. As usual, the brand's strength lies with its compact offerings, especially the Jetta. 11,958 examples were sold in October, with roughly half of that figure -- 5464 cars, to be precise -- attributed to the all-new 2011 Jetta sedan.

Unsurprisingly, the next-best selling model in VW's North American portfolio remains the Golf and GTI hatchback -- combined, the two accounted for 1905 deliveries, which marks a 62-percent increase from last October. Volkswagen's Tiguan sales grew 49 percent to 1453 deliveries, but surprisingly, the largest growth lies with the Routan. Only 1103 examples of the Chrysler-built minivan were sold in October, but that marks a 65-percent improvement over the same period in 2009.

A zero-percent, 72-month financing deal may have helped the Routan's figures, but other vehicles applicable for the deal -- the Eos and New Beetle -- didn't benefit quite as much. …
…Thus far in 2010, the automaker's U.S. sales are up by nearly 20 percent.
Credit: Automobile Magazine

New Models Drive Luxury Sales in October; Momentum Continues for Others

2010-11-03T17:07:00.002-05:00

Auto Observer

Volkswagen of America Inc., which has ambitious U.S. sales goals, increased October sales by nearly 18 percent from a year ago. Its sales were paced by the new Jetta, which had its first full month of sales and its best sales month since 2005, with the exception of last year's Cash for Clunkers period.
Volkswagen has taken heat for its price-reduced new Jetta, which critics charge the German automaker has cheapened too much in its effort to make it affordable to more customers. In addition to heavily advertising the Jetta's affordable price, Volkswagen is offering one of its biggest incentives ever for the nameplate.
Image via WikipediaAlso chipping into Volkswagen's total were higher sales of the Chrysler-built Routan minivan, Golf and GTI.
"Volkswagen continues to grow sales in all models and products through October," said Mark Barnes, VWoA's Chief Operating Officer. "It is good to see the all-new Jetta getting off to such a promising start and our TDI products continue to do well."

The six-year wait is over

2010-11-02T12:29:00.002-05:00

and then there were four… blog

Okay, so I was never “waiting”, but, after six years of being a one-car family, about three weeks ago we finally went out and not only got a second vehicle, but became a mini-van family.
Image by harry_nl via FlickrPlus, I finally fulfilled my dream of owning a Volkswagen. True, it isn’t the Jetta I always dreamed of having, but dreams change, and I couldn’t be happier with our decision.
We have been talking of getting a second car probably since we got pregnant with Olivia. On and off we would say “well, eventually we’ll need a second car”. But if you know anything about Bill and I, you know that we are incredibly indecisive about the simplest of things:… So you can only imagine how we are when it comes to something as huge as a new (or, new to us) car. So for the past four years we have gotten by on running errands on the weekends and at night when Bill got home. He has been able to take time off for doctor appointments and I have been able to walk within a 1.5 mile radius of our home to get to the park, swimming lessons; … We often relied on friends and family in situations where Bill couldn’t get away from work. While not exactly convenient at times, it worked and I didn’t feel that I was missing out on too much….
But, I knew that I couldn’t rely on [them]forever, so Bill and I got down to business and after going through a lot of ads online and thinking I would NEVER find a car we could A.) Afford and B.) Live with; we saw that a dealership about an hour away from us had three pre-owned 2009 VW Routans available for just under our budget.
Bill had test driven a new Routan a few months back and we both LOVED it, had almost gotten one, but the deal that was promised was not what they ended up offering and we walked away. While I was a little disappointed, I couldn’t fathom spending what they wanted us to spend, so when we saw this online special Bill told me to not get my hopes up. I was cautiously optimistic.
Still, we drove the hour to the dealership, I test drove the Routan, loved it and then Bill and the dealer went to work. I swear to you, my husband impressed me so much with his ability to negotiate. I never knew he had it in him! I actually walked away and took the girls back to our car because I knew he had it under control and everything would be fine.

And it was!
Now the girls are asking me when we are having more babies since we have room “for two more!”

Consumers Digest Magazine Names Routan One of 2011 Automotive Best Buys

2010-11-01T13:35:00.002-05:00

{The Volkswagen Routan is listed as a Consumers Digest Best Buy.—DMW}

DEERFIELD, Ill., Nov. 1, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Thirty-five vehicles and seven companion models received Best Buy ratings from Consumers Digest out of over 250 total 2011 models. The ratings, published in CD's December issue (on sale November 1), span 12 categories: Subcompacts, Compacts, Family Cars, Luxury Cars, Sporty Cars, Full-size Pickups, Small Pickups, Minivans, Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs, Full-size/Luxury SUVs and Hybrids. The Best Buys—based on behind-the-wheel assessment, safety ratings, ownership costs, warranty, price, comfort, ergonomics, styling and amenities—reflect CD's view of which 2011 vehicles offer exceptional value for the money.
2011 Automotive Best Buy Selections
3 "Subcompacts": Ford Fiesta, MINI Cooper/Cooper Clubman, Scion tC
3 "Compacts": Honda Fit, Kia Soul, Mazda3
5 "Family Cars": Buick Regal, Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Taurus, Hyundai Sonata, Suzuki Kizashi
Image via Wikipedia4 "Luxury Cars": Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac CTS sedan, Hyundai Genesis sedan, Mercedes-Benz E-Class
4 "Sporty Cars": Chevrolet Camaro, Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang, Porsche Cayman
2 "Full-size Pickups": Ford F-150, Ram 1500
1 "Small Pickup": Toyota Tacoma
Image via Wikipedia4 "Minivans": Chrysler Town &Country/Dodge Grand Caravan/Volkswagen Routan, Toyota Sienna
4 "Compact SUVs": Chevrolet Equinox/GMC Terrain, Honda CR-V, Kia Sorento
5 "Midsize SUVs": Buick Enclave/Chevrolet Traverse/GMC Acadia, Ford Flex, Honda Pilot
3 "Full-size/Luxury SUVs": Infiniti QX56, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Lincoln MKT
Image via Wikipedia4 "Hybrids": Ford Escape Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Mercury Mariner Hybrid, Mercury Milan Hybrid
"Value, as we see it, is based on purchase price and ownership costs relative to quality, performance and subjective factors like comfort and design," says Randy Weber, CD's publisher.
Performance characteristics evaluated include starting and acceleration, shifting, steering, handling, braking, ride quality and fuel economy….
This year's Best Buy lineup includes 17 vehicles that did not receive Best Buy ratings the previous model year.
Another evolution of the magazine's effort was its addition of two automotive experts to the project team, bringing the total number of panel members to six. Expanding the number of experts that contribute to Consumers Digest's evaluation process ensures that more time behind-the-wheel and more depth is applied to our assessment, which improves the quality of the system of judging vehicles overall. New to the team are: Marlon Hanson, who is president of Texas Automotive Media Association; Mark Maynard of the San Diego Union-Tribune and Steven Cole Smith of the Orlando Sentinel. They join Jim Gorzelany, who has served Consumers Digest readers for 22 years as an automotive writer, Jim Mateja, who writes a weekly Chicago Tribune auto column and has received numerous awards for his auto coverage, and Dan Jedlicka, who has written about autos for 41 years and is a member of the North American Car and Truck of the Year jury.
The Auto Best Buys section of the December issue includes photos, invoice pricing, standard features and reviews that support the models' Best Buy selection….
Consumers Digest is designed to inform and educate readers so they can buy with confidence, no matter the product or service. The magazine is committed to providing practical advice, factual evaluations and specific recommendations that lead consumers to exceptional values in today's complex marketplace. In 2011, Consumers Digest will celebrate its 50th year of serving consumers. One of the notable improvements being introduced at the beginning of Consumers Digest's 50th anniversary will be the publication of its New Car Guide two months sooner than it has traditionally. By making the Guide available on newsstands by February 1, 2011, CD will be putting consumers in an even better position to negotiate the best deal possible on the purchase of a new automobile.
SOURCE Consumers Digest

Top 10 cars and trucks for tailgate parties this fall

2010-11-01T13:16:00.003-05:00

Image via Wikipedia

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

In this slide show of vehicles good for tailgating, bankrate.com lists the Routan as the only minivan. See slide #11.

Top 10 cars and trucks for tailgate parties this fall

Here goes nothing...

2010-10-27T15:39:00.002-05:00

With a Little Luc

Here goes nothing...
Image via WikipediaI have always been one of those people that go on and on about how I will NEVER drive a minivan because ewww and shit. Who needs all that room? Who wants to look like a douchebag? I mean, minivans are for moms and old people with lots of grandchildren. "I won't give in!" I say. "I won't lose my cool!" There's "plenty of room in my Jetta!" "SUV's are totally enough!" You get the idea.
I 'pshawed' the car dealer when she suggested that I check out a Routan when I surprisingly declared how super tiny the Tiguan crossover was. "Nope. Never. Don't even talk to me about it" I said. After a little coaxing and a huge "what the hell!" I hopped up into the mom-mobile. "At least this will shut them up" I thought.
You know what? It wasn't so bad. The seats were leather...and soft. The touchscreen was FUN! I love touchscreens! It has how many DVD screens? You can watch 2 videos at once, you say? The doors do WHAT with the click of a button? Damn. Look at all that room! I could fit all of my photography equipment in here PLUS leave Mason's carseat and still have tons of room. There's plenty of space for another baby (when we have one) and a bigger stroller. It's comfortable. I don't feel like I am sitting on the dashboard and simultaniously smelling the backseat passenger's breath. It has a V6. It drives like a car.
Was I *gasp* losing my cool? Was I going to drive a minvan. Was I going to look like a mom? Wait.
Hold it.
I am a mom. I run a business that requires me to lug around all sorts of equipment and chairs and reflectors and props. What's the problem? Suddenly, I couldn't even tell you why I thought minivans were so bad? A "soccer mom" stigma? Maybe. But again, I am a mom. Doesn't everything have a stigma? You drive a 4 door sedan...you must be slow. And old. You drive an SUV? You must hate the environment. You drive a big truck? You must be overcompensating. You drive an expensive car? You must be snobby. Why do you need a HUGE SUV when you are a childless couple? Yadda yadda yadda.
Cover of The Italian JobNo. I think you drive your car because you like it. Imagine that. My husband never bought a sportscar because he was going to take it somewhere and race it. My in-laws didn't buy Mini Coopers because they plan on re-enacting a scene from the Italian Job (that I know of). My mom didn't buy an SUV because she is short and couldn't see the road in a smaller car. Love you, mom! And your T-Rex arms!
I guess I never thought about all this before. I thought I knew what I liked. Maybe I was trying to hold on to someone that I am not. I am a mom, but I am still Tiff. Just because I drive a bigger car that has self-opening doors doesn't mean I am someone different. I still like to drink wine! I still like to dance and watch bad reality shows! I am the same boring, child-toting, vertically challenged, cackle-laughing person...I just drive a car that has more room for your judgemental ass. So hop on in! Pop in the Hangover and let's go out on the town! I will even let you take a nap in the back if you like!

Hertz Rent2Buy Review - Part 3 - Colleen to the Rescue

2010-10-22T12:45:00.003-05:00

Mirthful Moose Musings

... We talked about the fact that I was looking for a VW Routan, and that I wanted the SE model that came with 2 packages, key among them was the towing package which allows you to tow up to 3500 pounds. It included air shocks in the back and an automatic leveling feature that helps accomplish this. …
Image by crazytales562 via Flickr... The seats were uber comfortable. The Routan is a rebadged Chrysler Town and Country. In fact, my new name for it is the Grand Caravagen. It's tweaked a little from the standard Dodge/Chrysler faire... some reviews say it's suspension and steering are much tighter. … But it does sport some nice VW type interior items and probably most importantly, they DO NOT have the Stow 'n Go middle seats. The VW seats are removable but not stowable. The bins that they fold into are still there, and these are spacious and will get use. But most importantly, the seats are COMFORTABLE... it's like a Lazy Boy... The front seats are heated, there are power windows everywhere, including the vents in the back... The rear seats have the same Tailgate seating option, and the cargo room behind them is amazing... A trip to the warehouse club with a full cart equates to filling up the bins the rear seats fold flat into... TONS of room. I'm very happy with the van. But back to the test drive...
Image via WikipediaOn Sunday, the family piled in and took a beautiful ride through the Berkshires to look at the foliage. Everyone was impressed with the van, and all agreed it was a great car. So the family gave it a thumbs up. I averaged 23 MPG on that cruise, … Fairly impressive for such a big and heavy van.
… And the nice thing is that I can go to a Chrysler/Dodge dealership for that, or the VW dealership, and bid them against each other on it!
Anyway, I decided that the car was a good deal, ...

Related articles

Volkswagen’s Future Products Revealed for 2011, 2012, and Beyond

2010-10-20T13:32:00.002-05:00

cars motor
[The following must be machine-translated. I don’t know what the originating language is, but this article proves that you can’t leave translation to a machine.

Image via WikipediaI think the post says that the Routan will continue through the model cycle, and that it is doubtful that it will get Stow ‘n Go. VW will not bring the mini-minivans (Sharan and Touran) to the U.S. The Routan will be replaced with something the same size. The new Routan will have more VW characteristics. It won’t be a Microbus (Transporter). The Transporter available in Europe would cost about $60-70,000 here.

Image via WikipediaThis news follows what I have heard or surmised in the past. The current model cycle continues through 2013. I’m curious to see who will build Mark 2, and when the minivan will get a diesel. I’d buy a new one with a diesel in a heartbeat.]

Image via WikipediaRoutan – The Chrysler-sourced minivan will abide through its artefact cycle, and it is absurd that it will anytime get Chrysler’s Stow ‘n Go folding second-row seats. The Routan will be replaced with a similar-size vehicle, not a abate mini-minivan like the European Sharan or Touran, as has been appear elsewhere. VW is absurd to add added minivans to it artefact portfolio in the accountable future.
Microbus – Volkswagen will not acceptation a minivan from Europe to the U.S. The accepted Transporter awash in Europe would amount $60k to $70k if awash in the U.S. That said, VW hints that the abutting adaptation of the Routan—or whatever it’s called—will accept added VW cast characteristics. Like, say, a Microbus badge?

My New Love.... My Volkswagon Routan

2010-10-18T14:11:00.002-05:00

Six in the Suburbs | Same Family. Different Stories. One Blog

Image via WikipediaAlong with most new mothers I had vowed to never ever get a MINI-VAN.
   However, with both the kids in clunky car seats, the 5-seater SUV just wasn't cuttin' it anymore. That is where my love story begins with my new mini-van, and I couldn't be any prouder. Not only can you change & feed a baby on the back bench- you can change & eat back there yourself! When that back bench isn't needed it can be stored in the floor giving you space equal to that of a pick-up truck for shopping trips to your local wholesale club or hardware superstore.
   Our first day together my 3 year old helped me to stock it with everything we'd need in our travels. There was a spot for each and every item I already had two of in the linen closet and a spare outfit for each of us just in case. First-Aid kit, an old-but-still-good towel, a roll of paper towels & toilet paper, snacks, movies, juice boxes, yadda-yadda-yadda. …
Image via Wikipedia[The blog post goes on about toileting matters that only a Mommy could love] …in a nice little compartment that my precious VW Routan is equipped with! …
   I am by genetics a napper. Both of my parents love a good nap, and I was raised to take it as it comes. So when the two kids are napping and I have accomplished anything that can be accomplished by drive-thru window I crawl on back and AHHHHHH......get snuggled in. Of course I've got blankets and a pillow always on reserve so comfort is a given. When you've got the room of a mini-van you can easily be prepared for those opened opportunities to get a little R & R.
Needless to say: There is no way I would have been able to do all this in anything other than a mini-van!
- M.L.E

Video of Routan Launch San Francisco 10/7-9/08

2010-10-13T12:00:00.001-05:00

Visit www.autonetwork.com to view the entire event. Bret Scott, Manager of Product Plotting, gives an overview of Routan Minivan to journalists at launch of Volkwagen’s VW first minivan the Routan held in San Franciso, Oct. 7-9, 2008.

2009 Volkswagen Routan Review

2010-10-13T11:50:00.000-05:00

2010 Routan Fact Video from a dealership

2010-10-07T11:06:00.001-05:00

VW Has Bigger Share of U.S. Under-35 Market Thanks to Routan

2010-10-06T16:22:00.002-05:00

Image via Wikipedia

The Michigan Business News Blog may be a venerable outlet, but I don’t know where they are getting their figures regarding the Routan. They miss the fact that it is doing what no other mini-van has been able to do—sell to the under-35 “I wouldn’t be caught dead driving a mini-van like my soccer Mom” crowd.

The Routan is holding it’s own. http://routanowner.blogspot.com/2010/10/routan-september-2010-ytd-sales.html In fact, Routan’s portion of the American mini-van market (3.51%) is more than 50% greater than VW’s share of the overall American market (2.2%).
Routan is selling into a younger mini-van market, which is in keeping with the younger market VW wants for the Jetta. 23.3% of Routan buyers are under the age of 35. The only vehicle with a higher percentage of under-35 owners is the Volkswagen GTI at 23.4%. http://routanowner.blogspot.com/2010/05/top-10-models-for-young-drivers.html

Image via WikipediaVW has the mini-van for the younger driver. Only the Mazda 5 shows up in the top-30 with 17.7% young ownership. All other mini-vans have under 35 owner percentages between 16.2% and 6%.

Volkswagen’s other models are positioned for the younger driver. Volkswagen has 5 of the top 30 cars for the under-35, matched only by Mazda.

Michigan Business News Blog

So far, VW has made some inroads. Through September, its U.S. car sales are up 20.6%, a growth rate outpaced only by Subaru and Ford Motor Co. among mass-market manufacturers. Market share for the VW brand has ticked up to 2.2% so far in 2010, up from 2% a year ago. (Counting in Audi sales, VW's U.S. share is 3.1%.)
Its biggest test comes next year with the launch of a larger sedan intended to replace the Passat. The new Chattanooga plant will have the capacity to build 150,000 of them, 11 times the Passat's current sales, and they'll compete in the auto market's toughest segment—against the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.
"Hyundai is extremely aggressive, and Toyota and Honda are going to spend lots of money to hold onto everything they've got," Mr. Ellis says.
VW's struggle with its Routan minivan, introduced two years ago, underscores the challenges the car maker has had in selling cars with more conventional American appeal under a brand that takes pride in German engineering.
After dropping plans for a modern version of its Microbus for fear it would be too niche and costly, it signed a deal with Chrysler to modify and rebrand the U.S. car maker's Town & Country minivan under the VW Routan name. VW tightened the minivan's suspension, gave it a sleeker front end and kept it in the same price range as the Chrysler. With an ad blitz featuring Brooke Shields, it aimed to capture 5%, or 45,000, of the 700,000 annual minivan market.
But the Routan's launch coincided with the auto industry's nose dive in late 2008. So many of them sat unsold on VW dealer lots last year that the auto maker asked Chrysler, which builds them at its Windsor, Ontario, plant, to temporarily halt production. While much of the rest of the minivan market has rebounded, Routan sales have slipped 0.8% to 12,539 vans so far this year, one-seventh of the number of Town & Country sales in the same period.
VW officials argue that the Routan has enabled them to sell to a key new customer segment. The company still expects the Routan's market share to grow as more consumers become aware of it as a minivan option.

15 More Amazing Vehicles

2010-10-04T18:06:00.002-05:00

Topher Welsh is back with another image collection! Here’s what he has to say : “Time for another vehicles roundup! We got some amazing looking vehicle renders for you to check out… mostly cars, but some others are thrown in the mix. If you have any favorites that I’ve overlooked, please post them in the comments!”
VW Golf Mk2 Turbo in Studio by Alexandre Guilbeault
Red Personal Old Mini by mygue
Smart by wuops
Volkswagon Routan by Sergio
“VANDAL” Nissan Skyline GTR tuned version by Impluse Design
Audi R8 by nitin.grg
Train 3Ds by needse
Tank by needse
Mini Front WIP by needse
Doom Buggy by needse
R8 by vizardTP
ZHPre by parhams
Audi S5 Sportback by YUXdesign
Hudson by dj
Honda Car by Mantra

15 More Amazing Vehicles

Theme song origins

2010-10-04T17:34:00.002-05:00

CHICAGO SUN-TIMESImage via Wikipedia

October 3, 2010
…[It] may be the most recognizable television tune ever — the one that accompanies Mayberry sheriff Andy Taylor and his young son, Opie, as they amble on down to the local fishing hole with poles in hand.
Image via WikipediaImage by Getty Images via @daylifeWritten by the late Chicago-born composer Earle Hagen — who died in 2008 …— the opening theme to “The Andy Griffith Show” immediately evokes a more innocent time and place where honesty, integrity, friendship and family were always paramount. It currently can be heard in a commercial for the Volkswagen Routan minivan …
Chances are you’re whistling it — out loud or in your head — right now.

Here, according to Hagen’s widow, Laura … is how it came to be. The charmingly unpolished version that played early on was reportedly the same version Hagen recorded in one take as a mere demo.
“Sheldon [Leonard, a producer and director] told Earle [the show] was set in a hometown, kind of a backwoods little quiet town called Mayberry, and they wanted something that would fit that. And Earle told me, ‘It just took me quite a while to decide on what to do. And then I realized it just had to be something really simple. Something you could whistle.’ And that’s when he came up with it. He said he penciled out the piano part, called up some musicians, went into the studio that night and recorded a demo. And he had his son, Deane, who was 11 at the time, do the snapping fingers. And Earle whistled it and these guys played it and he gave it to Sheldon, and Sheldon loved it and he said, ‘We’re just going to use that for the opening shot and we’ll have Andy and Opie walking down a little mountain road there by a stream with fishing poles over their shoulders.’ And it’s all history after that.”
Mike Thomas

Routan September, 2010 YTD Sales

2010-10-01T13:48:00.000-05:00

This is not an official release from Volkswagen of America.

Volkswagen is not discontinuing the Routan. We will see how the current management positions the Routan--the van is frequently tied to the departed CEO Stefan Jacoby. However, the Routan's market share is in line with targets set at its introduction. See the article Get It Straight--the Routan Is a Phenomenal Seller on this blog for a discussion why the Routan would not be discontinued because of sales numbers.

Research by Truecar.com indicates that 23.3% of Routan owners are younger than 35. Only the Volkswagen GTI has more owners under 35 in the U.S. at 23.4%. It would appear that Gen Y views the Routan as the best choice if they have to drive a minivan. Once they buy it, they seem to love it, as seen by their entries on blogs and Twitter.

On February 6, 2008, Associated Press reported, in part: "[Volkswagen of America President and CEO Stefan] Jacoby said the minivan market still is approaching 1 million vehicles a year, and Volkswagen would like to capture 3 to 5 per cent of that." Jacoby has since left the company to go to Volvo, but the Routan is still doing what they expected it to do.

PRNewswire published the September and YTD sales figures of the auto-makers who sell in the U.S. From these reports, we glean the following data:

Brand YTD - 9/10

Chrysler   87,493

Dodge    74,954

Honda    79,725

Kia      17,217

Mazda    12,865

Nissan      177 (discontinued)

Toyota     72,131

Volkswagen 12,539

Total     357,101

Volkswagen's market share of van sales is 3.51%, in the range Volkswagen of America was aiming for. This is, by the way, nearly twice their overall market share.

Volkswagen of America Announces 14.9% Increase for September Sales

2010-10-01T10:52:00.002-05:00

Jetta Leads the Way with Strong Month and First Sales of All-New 2011 Model

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. today reported September sales of 19,943 total units, for an increase of 14.9 percent over September 2009. Year-to-date sales for the entire line of Volkswagen vehicles were up 20.6 percent over 2009.
Jetta led the way with sales of 10,769 vehicles, marking a 12.6 percent increase over last year and the best sales month for Jetta since August 2009. Consumers began purchasing the all-new 2011 Jetta that arrived in showrooms late in the month.
Volkswagen's line of industry-leading clean diesel TDI models also showed particular strength in September with the second highest TDI mix ever at 27 percent of all Volkswagen vehicles sold during the month, indicating a growing importance of clean diesel TDI vehicles to consumers.
Vehicles across the Volkswagen line showed strength in September. Combined Golf and GTI sales were up 252 percent; Tiguan sales were up 49.7 percent; Routan sales were up 33.9 percent; and Passat sedan sales showed a 10.6 percent increase for the month.
"Sales of Volkswagen's full line of products continued to grow in September," said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "The Jetta, which is core to our growth plans in North America, showed a strong month with the very first sales of the all-new 2011 Jetta. Our clean diesel TDI vehicles also showed strength, indicating consumers are increasingly seeking the performance and benefits of Volkswagen's TDI technology."
Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Eos, Golf, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Passat, Passat Wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2010 Volkswagens come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at http://www.vw.com/ or http://www.media.vw.com/ to learn more.

Hot minivans drive Christmas bonus in Windsor

2010-09-30T17:33:00.002-05:00

Last Updated: Wednesday, September 29, 2010 | 10:41 AM ET

CBC News
Chrysler has asked workers at the Windsor assembly plant, shown here in 2008, to work through their usual Christmas shutdown this year to meet high demand for the Dodge Grand Caravan. (Dave Chidley/Canadian Press)
High demand for minivans may make for a merrier Christmas in Windsor, Ont., this year.
Chrysler has announced it wants to keep production of its minivans moving right through the Christmas period.
'It should be a little bit of a boost to the economy of Windsor at a time obviously I would suggest we critically need a boost in our economy.'— Rick Laporte, CAW Local 444
Image via WikipediaNormally, there is a one-week shutdown at the Windsor assembly plant, which produces the Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Town and Country and Volkswagen Routan.
Chrysler said it is anticipating high demand for its redesigned minivans.
Holiday pay plus double time
The company plans to run 12-hour days the week of Dec. 27, and the union doubts Chrysler will have trouble finding workers ready to cover the shifts.
"Those workers would be paid their holiday pay plus double time for being at work," said Rick Laporte, president of CAW Local 444, which represents the workers.
Laporte said the extra work is good news for all of Windsor.
"I would suggest to you it means more Christmas presents under the tree, more money spent in our economy, and it should be a little bit of a boost to the economy of Windsor at a time obviously I would suggest we critically need a boost in our economy."
Chrysler will start production of its new model minivans at the Windsor assembly plant later this fall.
It already has plans to build an additional 60,000 of the vehicles to meet expected demand.

Five Popular German-Made Cars

2010-09-27T15:05:00.002-05:00

Travel and Explore Germany

When you think German, you think quality, and that's what we all want from our next car. German cars comes in all shapes, sizes and price tags, with some of the top selling models on the market to meet and exceed most budgets. If you want some of that German engineering parked in your own driveway, try one of these top picks for German handling and stability.
1. Porsche 911
In the popularity stakes, the Porsche 911 has to come in at first. This beautiful beast of a car is made by the Volkswagen group. Debuting at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1963, it has evolved over the years, often being modified with various porche parts by competition teams and since has won numerous world champion sports car races. In Germany, the 911 is a top seller, outdoing the Boxster, Cayman and Cayenne.
2. VW Jetta
Image by Getty Images via @daylifeThe second place winner also comes from the Volkswagen company with their tried and true Jetta, available in four or six cylinder models. Choose from a Jetta body type in sedan or wagon style for snappy German engineering to suits most budgets. A unique feature in the four cylinder Volkswagon cars in the added horsepower with a 2.5 liter engine. They have near the power of a six cylinder, yet get the fuel economy closer to a four cylinder, situated just right somewhere in the middle engine ground.
3. Audi A3T 2.0 Premium
The A3T 2.0 Premium is mid-sized and affordable luxury from the experts at Audi, offering a spacious hatchback A3T model with plenty of room for luggage, groceries and sporting equipment. This four cylinder engine gets great gas mileage and has earned itself a five-star consumer rating for handling and dependability.
4.Image via Wikipedia VW Routan
When only a passenger van will do, VW offers a roomy and elegant way to travel with the newly developed Routan. The 3.7 liter V6 engine cranks up plenty of power, and the interior styling and ambience has come a long way from the classic VW Bus. Priced competitively with a Toyota Sienna, the Routan is German excellenceat the price you want to pay.

Image by Michi1308 via Flickr5.BMW 135 i
Quality assurance is a done deal with any make and model from BMW. Low on maintenance and high on road performance, BMW's bottom priced vehicle has no shortage with German excellence and trendy styling, including striking automotive backlit buttons and fascias. The sporty 135i coup comes equipped with a hefty 3.0 liter engine and standard features that exceed most of its competition. Not too cheap, yet affordable if you want it, the BMW 135i is an investment into roadside safety and award-winning looks.

Our Cars: 2010 Volkswagen Routan - Fully Loaded Braking Blues

2010-09-23T12:56:00.002-05:00

Motor Trend Magazine

|
As far as First World problems go, moving is pretty high up in the standings. One of few that rank higher is helping someone else move, which has the pitfalls of moving all of your stuff plus the downside of not having a new place to live in afterwards. Aside from generally being a huge pain, moving also requires a suitable vehicle. Usually a pickup or rented moving van, depending on distance and amount of stuff necessary. I split the difference, opting to use our long-term 2010 Volkswagen Routan since he doesn't own any large furniture.

CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY
He may not own any furniture, but he does own entirely too many clothes, as is evidenced by the filled-to-the-brim minivan you see here. Somewhere behind that pile is a twin-size mattress and nearly a dozen trash bags filled with clothes. Thankfully, the flat-bottomed Routan had enough space for everything, though some creative packing was necessary.
The downside of the Routan in heavy-laden situations is its brakes. Like the mechanically identical Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan, the Routan is underbraked. Unladen, it needs 136 feet to stop from 60 mph and it does not inspire confidence as it decelerates. Loaded up, it gets considerably worse. On the plus side, the 4.0-liter V-6 didn't have any problems moving the now two-and-a-half-plus ton van along.
Is the Routan the best choice possible for a moving van? Probably not, but its an adequate and stylish one. Now to find some superglue to reattach bottom of the driver-side A/C vent to the dash...

VW ROUTAN Dora And Boots

2010-09-22T14:11:00.002-05:00

Future products: U.S. model is VW's big news

2010-09-20T14:42:00.002-05:00

Autoweek

By DIANA T. KURYLKO, AUTOMOTIVE NEWS

The redesigned Touareg SUV goes on sale in November. A diesel engine will be available.
An ambitious plan to increase Volkswagen brand sales in the United States to 800,000 by 2018--up from 213,454 last year--begins with a mid-sized sedan to be built starting early next year in Chattanooga, Tenn.
Later, the new factory will add the Polo small car or a mid-sized SUV--possibly both.
Here is a rundown of VW's product plans through 2013.
E-Up!: An electric-powered version of the Up! minicar will be sold in the United States in 2013. The Up! family--which consists of a hatchback, minivan and sedan--goes on sale in Europe in 2011. The U.S.-bound electric version is expected to be the minivan….
New Beetle: The small car, built in Puebla, Mexico, will be restyled and re-engineered next year. VW is addressing its shortcomings, such as limited interior room. A convertible will debut in 2012, and a hybrid is likely.
Jetta: A redesigned version of the Mexico-built sedan goes on sale this fall. VW has made the Jetta bigger and lowered the price so it competes directly with the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. A hybrid is expected in 2012.
…
Mid-sized sedan: Sales of the Chattanooga-built four-door sedan will begin in the spring at a starting price of about $20,000. VW wants the new mid-sized sedan to compete with the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The front-drive car will be larger than the CC and Passat sedans and will share 30 to 40 percent of its parts with the redesigned Jetta.
CC: The coupe-styled four-door sedan based on the Passat will be freshened in 2011.
Passat: The Passat has been dropped in the United States because, VW executives say, the German import is smaller, yet more expensive, than the new mid-sized sedan.
Phaeton: The new-generation Phaeton, which shares a platform with the Bentley Continental GT coupe and Flying Spur sedan, debuts this year in Europe and China. VW executives promise a return of a premium sedan to the United States, though at a considerably lower price than the $65,000-plus vehicle that was yanked off the market in 2006.
Eos: The hardtop convertible will be freshened in 2011. …
Tiguan: The compact crossover will be redesigned in 2012. A longer, seven-seat version may be added.
Touareg: The redesigned SUV goes on sale in November with both V6 gasoline and diesel engines. The 3.0-liter V6 gasoline hybrid goes on sale at year end. VW says the hybrid's fuel economy is about 40 percent better than that of the gasoline SUV. The Touareg continues to share its platform with the Porsche Cayenne.
Routan: The 2-year-old minivan will be freshened late this year. The Routan is a rebadged Chrysler Town & Country--only the body panels and interior trim are different--and is assembled by Chrysler Group.
The changes likely will mimic those of the Town & Country, which is getting a new Pentastar V6 engine and a new front end to comply with European pedestrian safety requirements. The interior also will be altered.

Which Vehicle Classes Are Strongest Sellers in CPO Market?

2010-09-17T11:43:00.003-05:00

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

By Joe Overby, Staff Writer
September 17, 2010
BANDON, Ore. — While each market performs somewhat differently, some certified pre-owned vehicle categories tend to be hot sellers, whereas others are perhaps not so popular.
So what has Art Spinella, of CNW Research, discovered? He found that near-luxury, luxury and hybrid CPO models have been healthy as of late, while smaller, budget cars have been the slowest to move.
That said, CPO trends do vary on a regional basis, he pointed out. …
And, of course, different automakers are seeing somewhat varying trends within their own certified operations, though some similarities exist.
Toyota, for one, has certainly experience segmentation in its CPO figures, said Jason Cropper, who is the Toyota Certified Used Vehicle Operations manager.
Specifically, Cropper said the Camry has been continuing its dominance in CPO sales, actually increasing its share from a year ago.
The automaker is also seeing the small SUV segment grow stronger, as well.
…"Similar to what the industry is seeing on the new-vehicle side of the business, we also see increased volume in the small SUV segment, which for us is the RAV4," he added. "RAV4 as a percentage of our total TCUV volume was up to 8 percent, while other SUVs and light trucks actually contracted as a percentage of our total TCUV volume."
As far as the reasons for why some vehicles sell better than others, Cropper pointed to consumer demand and the effect of the changing dynamics the new-vehicle market is having on inventory on the certified side. …
Offering the perspective of Volkswagen, Rob Martin, CPO manager for VW sales operations, explained: "We continue to see strength in the Jetta and Passat, but we are also seeing the start of our newer model vehicles entering the CPO fleet, including Tiguan and Routan.
"This is encouraging and by having vehicles to sell in other segments, the Volkswagen brand hopes to continue our growth in market share," Martin continued. …

Minivan Ratings | Minivan vs SUV | Best Minivan Deals

2010-09-15T14:54:00.002-05:00

Monthly Car Lease

Minivan vs SUV

By the time my oldest child entered high school, my wife and I had really grown tired of driving a minivan around town. We had just assumed that we had outgrown Minivans. We stopped buying them after trading in the 2000 model Chevrolet Venture in 2007. … We seemed too old for it.

I believe that a great deal of us feel this way as we get into our late 30s or 40s and are no longer lugging strollers, walkers, bikes, carriers and toddler toys wherever we go. So, while the feeling is mutual, is the disdain for minivans rational from a practical standpoint? The next logical progression for a parent who has seeming outgrown minivans is of course, the SUV. While I loved the Hyundai Veracruz SUV that we leased for two years, I had a hard time justifying the extra cost of the all-wheel drive and diminished gas mileage. What I do miss, however, is the extra cargo and passenger space the Veracruz provided.

Passenger and cargo room are certainly things you get from a minivan and they are great on vacations. Now that the kids are grown, perhaps you enjoy road trips and are realizing how convenient it would be to have two automatic sliding doors for easily lifting your cooler and luggage items in and out of your vehicle? Or, perhaps you'd like to throw a bike in back and still have room for the dog? The truth of the matter is that there is pretty much nothing an SUV can do that a Minivan cannot do.

… It really amazes me how many people will pay good money for an SUV with front wheel drive only. There is definitely some psychological materialism involved in the decision to buy a vehicle that looks like an SUV, but is more expensive and less practical than a Minivan. So, with the high popularity of SUVs, you might expect to find better leasing and financing offers for them. This is not the case.

Best Minivan Deals
Minivans have gotten better. Dual sliding doors are practically standard on most models and the seats are designed in such a way they either fold down into the floor board or cleverly flat in such a way you can turn them into great cargo haulers. Also, most of them produce good power and reasonable gas mileage.

I was happy to see that Toyota, Honda, Chrysler, Mazda and Volkswagen ALL have attractive offers on their Minivan models, whether it's a Lease or a Low-Interest Loan. Chrysler, for example has 60 month 0% APR / 72 month 1.9% APR specials on the popular Town and Country. Nothing, however, beats the 2010 Volkswagen Routan which can be purchased at 0% APR, Nothing Down for up to 72 Months. That is a sensational value. The VW Routan is a actually designed by Chrysler, then modified by VW to give it a sleeker appearance and sportier, more euro-like handling on the road. I think it looks pretty cool. Who says a Mini-Van cannot be sexy?

The oddball of the bunch is probably the Mazda 5 which is really more of a compact minivan with smaller engine and seating capacity. All Minivans seat 7 or 8 passengers, but the Mazda 5 only seats 6.

I have sorted out the best lease specials and 0% or low APR finance offers and listed them below in order from 1 - 6. These ratings are based on the return in value for the monthly payment. Leasing the Toyota or Honda certainly offers the lower payment, but there is no equity at the end of the term. As we mentioned in prior Lease vs Buy Car articles, it's hard to beat a 0% or 1.9% 60/72 Month Finance Deal. So, before you make up your mind on a Minivan vs SUV, consider these 6 Special Purchase and Leasing Offers below.
Minivan Ratings
Mini Van Term Payment
1 2010 Volkswagen Routan S
72 $368.00 Buy at 0% for 72 Months (Good for all Models)
2 2010 Chrysler Town & Country

60 $422.00
Buy at 0% APR for 60 or 1.9% for 72 Months

3 2010 Honda Odyssey LX

                                36   $249.00
36 Month Lease with $1999 Down

4 2011 Toyota Sienna LE 8 Passenger
                                36     $279
36 Month Lease with $2999 Down

5 2010 Kia Sedona LX 7 Passenger
                                60   $455.00
Buy at 2.9% APR for 60 Months

6 2010 Mazda 5 Sport Automatic
                                36   $299.00
36 Month Lease with $2894 Down

Chrysler dealers praise new, upgraded models, CEO

2010-09-15T14:15:00.003-05:00

As said here many times before, the Routan is the Town & Country Chrysler should have built all along.

Image via Wikipedia

detnews.com | The Detroit News

Alisa Priddle / The Detroit News

Chrysler Group LLC's product renewal starts now, in a game of catch-up that coincides with the slow rebound of the industry.

Perhaps the biggest area of upgrades is in the passenger compartments, where hard plastic and cheap-looking interiors will be replaced by softer, higher-quality materials, visually appealing instrument panels and gauges, more-comfortable seats and steering wheels with integrated controls.

Image via WikipediaUpdated minivans also were shown Tuesday. The interior of the Town & Country is "so much better," said Hall. Some of the credit goes to the fact the Windsor, Ontario, plant also makes the VW Routan, and Chrysler "saw what VW was using and how to do it." The Dodge Grand Caravan was referred to as the "man van" to distinguish the two.

"I think the design changes will put the minivans back ahead of the competition," said Ken Lewenza, president of the Canadian Auto Workers. "For the last four or five years, we cheaped out. No more cheap plastic."

Image via Wikipedia

The Five Most Discounted Cars - The Car Connection

2010-09-13T13:25:00.002-05:00

The Car Connection

By Sean Tucker Contributor September 10th, 2010
Five thousand dollars off. Seven thousand dollars off. Twelve thousand dollars off.
They may sound ridiculous, but these figures are actually just the jumping off points for negotation on a handful of cars this month. Customer incentives and factory-to-dealer incentives (when the automaker provides the dealer with a bonus for selling the car -- which you can work into negotiations, knowing the dealership will get that money once you sign) lower the prices of some cars by thousands before you even begin discussions with a dealer.
While most cars are discounted slightly this summer, thanks to a slow economy keeping auto sales lower than expected, some are discounted much more heavily than others. Our pricing partners at TrueCar.com have helped us to find the most heavily discounted cars--and there's more variety to the list than we had expected. There may well be something in your price range.

2009 BMW M6
Enlarge Photo
BMW M6 -- $12,500 off
BMW has announced the end of production for the 6-Series, and the tuned version put out by the M division goes out with it. …They're extraordinary cars, powered by a V10 that won the International Engine of the Year award twice -- and they've never been cheaper.

Infiniti launches the 2008 QX56 SUV
Enlarge Photo
Infiniti QX56 -- $7,000 off
… Rumors have suggested several times in the last year that Infiniti will cancel its huge QX56 SUV soon. The company has denied the move each time, but it is having a hard time selling the big, ultra-luxury 'ute in today's economy. …
2010 Chevrolet Impala
Enlarge Photo
Chevy Impala -- $5,000 off
Though it's a historically great nameplate, the current Chevrolet Impala is simply outshone by most of its large car rivals -- the Ford Taurus takes the prize in that class. …

2009 Volkswagen Routan comes with college tuition voucher
Enlarge Photo
Volkswagen Routan -- $5,000 off
Volkswagen isn't known for heavy rebates, but the Routan is a special case. Essentially a Chrysler Town & Country with a few exterior and interior modifications and a mildly-reworked suspension, the Routan has never really appealed to VW's core audience of buyers looking for upscale European models without BMW price tags. [DMW note—VW is apealing to the under-30 generation, and more Routan owners are under-30 than any other vehicle except VW’s own Jetta.] In order to sell them, the company …rebates of up to $5,000. …

2010 Volvo XC70
Enlarge Photo
Volvo XC70 -- $5,000 off
… The XC70 has always been an ever-so-slightly raised V70 with all-wheel-drive, and the company plans to continue importing it. It has all the utility Volvo wagon fans love, and it's a better fit for many families in the snow belt. Still, Volvo is having trouble selling them next to more attractive XC60s, so the 70 is available at a substantial discount.

The Voice of Reason Regarding a VW Commercial

2010-09-09T14:08:00.000-05:00

Image via WikipediaI have commented a number of times about the "Slug-Dub" commercials and the ire they trigger in some people. Some people just spit out their strained peas when they saw people hitting others while a Routan drove by and the theme from "The Andy Griffith Show" played.

Image via WikipediaThe response of some is as if Volkswagen is a vestige of the Third Reich attempting the Fourth Reich by instilling the spirit of fascism in America. For the record, it was Mussolini and the Italians who were Fascists--never mind VW, watch out that Fiat doesn't corrupt America through Chrysler! The Third Reich was the invention of the National Socialists under Hitler. I never meant to bring politics into this, but if you listen to the Tea Party, Obama is trying to nationalize socialism here. How ironic, since the Nazis looked down on those of African descent as much as Little Rock and Montgomery did in the 1950s.

For those who are counting, I apologize that I can't work in Stalin, the Yugo and Bosnia, the Hutus and Tutsis, or General Tojo who supported Mitsubishi and the parent companies of Mazda, Suzuki, and Subaru. I can only offend so many people or car companies at a time.

The real reason for this blog entry is the reaction generated by this Volkswagen Jetta commercial:

Jason S. Harry, professional truck driver/blogger posted When Special Interest "Shoot the Gap" . The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has posted a comment on their Facebook page taking umbrage to this commercial and allowing others to vent their spleen. Jason takes a very reasoned view of the VW vs Safety vs Professional Drivers vs OOIDA issue, and comes to the conclusion that the majority of viewers would not assume that VW was instructing people to drive dangerously. Unfortunately, the majority of commenters seem to want to send a blitzkrieg against Wolfsburg (ironic because blitzkrieg was a German-named tactic and the advertizing agency is based in New York and Los Angeles) for having the audacity to show something that 1% of all drivers have never thought of doing and how the vilified professional driver will get the blame.

Jason makes some very good comments about the responses OOIDA receives. I'm sure he's indicating that the majority of professional drivers are not as knee-jerk as the commenters, just as the majority of Jetta (or any other 4-wheeler) drivers are not so brain dead as to pull a stunt to deliberately put 3 vehicles and their occupants in peril.

It occurs to me that the highways would be a safer place if we could put all the knee-jerkers and brain dead 4-wheelers in one room (the Superdome would be adequate, I think) so that they could act out their own nationally socialistic fascism upon the each other. The winner gets to clean up the mess.

Kelley Blue Book Review

2010-09-07T15:30:00.001-05:00

Volkswagen Vans - Different Options To Choose From

2010-09-07T15:02:00.002-05:00

Volkswagen Vans offers three different vans options to choice from. They all have style and great performance as rated by the customers that have purchased them.

kokobware.net

Volkswagen EuroVan
Image via WikipediaFrom 1993 to 2003 Volkswagen manufactured the Eurovan. Earlier versions has a low power engine but thee Volkswagen Vans changed it because of customer demand. All models came stand with air conditioning, power windows, and power door locks. They also had driver and passenger side airbags. This can be found at dealerships that sell used vehicles or from individual owners. Overall customers who purchased this van have loved it especially the later models.

Volkswagen Routan

Image via WikipediaThe first year of making this van was in 2009. It is a seven passenger van that offers a lot for a busy family. The Routan is built just like the Dodge Caravan and the Town and Country by Chrysler. Actually the are all made at the same plant in Canada. This van has a European feel to it. It is still very stylish and full of features. This van has room for seven passengers and all their stuff. The Volkswagen Vans Routan has thirteen cup holders, this alone can almost decide if you may want to purchase this van. Plus there is a third row fold in the floor seat. Additionally included in all models are rear and front 12V power outlets for all your gadgets charging needs.

Volkswagen Vanagon

Image via WikipediaThis van was manufactured from 1988 to 1991. There were several versions to choose from during that time span. You had the standard Vanagon, Vanagon GL, GL Camper, Carat, Multivan, and finally the Wolfsburg Limited Edition. They all came with a 2.1 liter engine. These vans were considered the ultimate family vehicles with carpeting , air conditioning, front bucket seats, and a padded instrument panel. Most owners of these vehicles are in love with them. They are no manufactured any longer but can be found at used car dealers or purchased from previous owners.
No matter what you are looking for Volkswagen Vans has designed a van that can fit the needs of your family. Compare the models side by side. New or used you will not be disappointed by either vehicle.

Baby This and That

2010-09-07T13:53:00.002-05:00

A Creative Leak

Katie asked in the comments somewhere when I'm due, …
I'm due around Nov 3. If you ask me in person I'll say around Halloween. And the oldest daughter around here has a birthday the day before Halloween. So she's concerned.
What if I'm in the hospital on her birthday? Who will make her a cake? What about having a birthday party? All the attention is going to be on the baby and not on her birthday. Yes, she's said it. I cringe - but at the same time I applaud her honesty.
Cakes out of the freezer taste delicious. I'm sure she'll get a fabulous birthday cake. I've tried to assure her that she'll always be special and we won't forget her birthday. …
Maybe when the time comes, she'll change her tune a little. Maybe that depends on how close their birthdays are.
Moving on... someone took my picture the other day. I usually move out of range when the camera comes out. …
And in other preparations for Baby... we bought a minivan. A Volkswagen Routan. It's nice. It's comfortable. The kids like having more space than they had in the CRV. They still load up their more space with Stuff.

Driving it feels kind of like driving the Pilot. … One nice thing is the doors stay locked until the driver opens his/her door. One thing that bothers me a little is that the radio stays on until the driver opens his/her door. It's the little things in life I guess.

Here they make the VW symbol with their fingers. Some with more dexterity than others.
Posted by joanna at 5:13 AM