2009 Volkswagen Routan: Road Test
2009 Volkswagen Routan ▼
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- MSRP: $25,200 - $33,600
- Invoice: $23,799 - $31,323
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Our road test for the 2009 Volkswagen Routan includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Volkswagen Routan from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Volkswagen Routan, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Volkswagen Routan help you decide if a 2009 Volkswagen Routan is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.6 |
The SE's 3.8-liter V6 offers sufficient power for most situations. The 6-speed automatic provides quick shifts, but low-speed driving can generate a bit of harshness during gear changes. No 4.0-liter SEL models have been made available for testing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.3 |
In Consumer Guide testing, Routans with the 3.8-liter V6 averaged 17.9 mpg in mixed driving that slightly favored city use, and 19.4 mpg with mostly highway work. The 3.8-liter V6 uses regular-grade gas. VW recommends mid-grade 89-octane gas for the 4.0-liter engine.
RIDE QUALITY
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.6 |
Routan is well isolated, with even large bumps taken with poise. Some testers feel the VW's ride might be a bit firmer than the similar Chrysler Town & Country.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.2 |
Despite the Routan's generous overall size, the van is quite tractable. The impressively tight turning radius is a plus in close-quarters maneuverability. Some testers feel the Routan does a better job than the Chrysler Town & Country at controlling body lean in corners.
QUIETNESS
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.4 |
Along with the similar Town & Country and Grand Caravan, Routan is one of the quietest minivans. Except for a bit of ruckus from the optional sunroof, wind noise is impressively muted, as is road noise.
CONTROLS
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.4 |
The main gauges are easy to read, but the smaller gauges aren't as clear as they could be during the day. Most controls are plainly marked and work as expected. Some testers feel the climate controls are mounted too low for quick adjustment, and others find the main rotary dials a bit small. The shifter is mounted on the dashboard. It's simple to use and doesn't block access to any controls.
DETAILS
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.7 |
Volkswagen did a very good job on the Routan's interior. The general ambiance is more sophisticated than that found in the Chrysler cousins, and assembly looks top notch. Plastics are a combination of soft touch and hard surfaces, but even the hard pieces look about as nice as plastic can.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 8 |
Wide, comfortable chairs contribute to long-haul comfort. Note on the SE, only the driver's seat is height adjustable. Also, models with the optional sunroof have significantly less headroom than other versions, enough so that most adult males will find headroom lacking if seated on the non-height-adjustable passenger's seat.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 8.1 |
The Routan does not offer Chrysler's Stow 'n Go or Swivel 'n Go 2nd-row seating options, but the Volkswagen's seats provide superior comfort. The optional sunroof also dramatically reduces headroom in the 2nd row, enough so that even slightly taller-than-average adults can't comfortably fit. The 3rd-row bench seat is roomy enough for two adults, and doesn't lose headroom on sunroof-equipped models.
CARGO ROOM
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 10 |
Vast space is available, but the 2nd-row seats must be removed to achieve a flat load floor. The seats are heavy and cumbersome to take out and store. The split-fold third-row seat easily flips flat into a well via a series of numbered straps.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.3 |
Routan does a fine job of looking like a member of the Volkswagen family and masking its close relationship to the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan. But in the end, the VW ends up in a classic give or take situation. The VW has a classier cabin, but it doesn't offer all the innovative seating options found in the Chrysler products. The Routan's warranty is shorter, but VW includes scheduled maintenance. The Volkswagen's pricing is in the ballpark, but it is unlikely VW dealers will be able to match the rebates and discounts that can be had on the Chrysler vans. Still, the Routan deserves a place on the minivan shopper's list.
Total Score
| SE | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 77 | 73.6 |
Total Score: 77
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