Volkswagen unveils Routan at Chicago Auto Show

[phaeton]

European inspired design and driving dynamics highlight new minivan

Chicago, 06 February 2008 - Volkswagen of America today unveiled the Routan, an all new seven-passenger minivan. It delivers the best of both worlds: a vehicle that combines European sensibilities in design, fit and finish, and handling characteristics with market relevant features and outstanding value.


The Routan is instantly recognizable as a member of the Volkswagen family, with its stylized front grille and exterior treatments. The interior enhancements create an environment that is visually pleasing, modern, and meticulously detailed. The high quality materials, beautiful textures and rich luxurious colors are combined with exacting tolerances and superb fit and finish. While pleasing and contemporary, the interior also follows the traditional Volkswagen design philosophy that form follows function.

Second row captain’s chairs offer an increased level of luxury and comfort while still providing the convenience of a traditional minivan, with over 32.7 cubic feet available behind the third row seats and a full 83 cubic feet is available behind the second row.

The Routan will come standard with a 3.8L V6, offering 197 hp and 230 lb. ft. of torque when combined with the standard six-speed automatic transmission. A 4.0L V6 will be available rated at 253 hp and 263 lb. ft. of torque. Routan features European tuned suspension and steering optimized for handling and improved driving dynamics. Standard all-season traction control and ESP, brings safety and security to the Routan. The Routan comes with a host of unique features, including:

-Conversation Mirror

-Rear seat entertainment system with two 9 inch screens for second and third row, wireless headsets, and remote control

-Dual power sliding doors with power windows

-Touch screen navigation with twenty meg hard drive

-Power lift gate with flood lamp
-Thirteen cup holders

Volkswagen delivers a competitively priced entry into this high volume segment with prices starting below $25,000. The Routan was developed together with Chrysler LLC and will be built in an already existing facility in Windsor, Ontario.

[phaeton]

[Aussie Volks Guy]

looking a bit like a Mazda or Toyota to me...........

[xjnrdavo]

gees, I wonder who the tarket audience is.... soccer mums prehaps?

[Treza360]

Good looking for a people mover. I'd say the probably the best on the market now by the brief looks of it. But at the end of the day it's still a people mover.
Volkswagen does need to enter the market though. If they can put the 3.2 in it though like they did with the Multivan though. Well that'll be a different kettle of fish.

[DaveMack]

looking a bit like a Mazda or Toyota to me...........

Hmmm ... I was thinking Honda, Guy.

Dave

[phaeton]

Hope you guys realise this is not coming here

Its USDM only and its a facelifted Chrysler Voyager

[Treza360]

Hope you guys realise this is not coming here

Its USDM only and its a facelifted Chrysler Voyager

When you say facelifted Voyager? Basic chassis underpinnings? What about drivetrains etc?

[Aussie Volks Guy]

Its USDM only and its a facelifted Chrysler Voyager

WTF!

[phaeton]

This is what Routan is based on



The only thing VW has changed is the interior materials, redesigned dashboard, redesigned D pillar and front and rear ends as well as supposed suspension tweaks.