2009 ROUTAN: A STYLISH ALTERNATIVE TO THE MINIVAN
08/01/2008
Volkswagen
The 2009 Routan, Volkswagen's all-new seven-passenger minivan, delivers the best of both worlds: a vehicle that combines German sensibilities in design, fit and finish and European ride and handling characteristics, together with market relevant features while still delivering an outstanding value.
The Routan comes with a standard six-speed automatic transmission mated to a 3.8L V6 with 197 horsepower and 230 lbs. ft. of torque or an available 4.0L V6 with 253 horsepower and 262 lbs. ft. of torque. Function follows form with fuel economy numbers of 16 city 23 highway for the 3.8L and 17 city and 25 highway in the 4.0L in this well designed and spacious sevenseater.
A distinctly designed minivan with attractive starting prices of $24,700 for the S model, $29,600 for the SE model and $33,200 for the well equipped SEL model. Routan not only broadens Volkswagen's appeal, but it also provides a roomy alternative to existing Volkswagen owners that desire a seven passenger vehicle.
Design
The Routan is instantly recognizable as a member of the Volkswagen family, with its stylized front grille and exterior treatments. The interior enhancements create an environment that is visually pleasing, modern, and meticulously detailed. The high quality materials, beautiful textures and rich luxurious colors are combined with exacting tolerances and superb fit and finish.
Safety and Security Come Standard
Routan comes with a host of standard safety features - including standard front and side curtain airbags. Routan features German tuned suspension and steering optimized for handling and improved driving dynamics. Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) - standard on all 2009 Volkswagen's - with hydraulic brake assist, bring an added level of security to the Routan. Also available are High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps for improved visibility and an ultrasonic rear-park assist.
Convenience
Routan features a host of functional features, including: conversation mirror, rear seat entertainment system with two nine inch screens for second and third row passengers, touch screen navigation with 30 GB JoyBox(TM) Multi-Media Entertainment system, dual power sliding doors with power windows, power fold third row seating for extra storage room or "tailgating" function, and no less than thirteen cup holders.
Available heated front and second row captain's chairs offer an increased level of luxury and comfort. The convenience of a traditional minivan is here with up to 144 cubic feet available with second row removed, and the third row stowed. Remote keyless entry with an available remote vehicle start system provides an extra level of comfort on a cold or hot day.
To accommodate the needs of today's families, the Routan features standard 12V power outlets and an available 115V AC outlet for powering up phones, MP3 players and game consoles.
Also standard for 2009 is Volkswagen's Carefree Maintenance Program, with this program there are no charges for the scheduled maintenance described in the vehicle's maintenance booklet for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty-three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
About Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Volkswagen of America, Inc. recently announced Electronic Stability Program (ESP) as standard equipment on all its 2009 vehicles. As a result, Volkswagen is one of the only original equipment manufacturers to offer an electronic stability control system on their entire product line - ahead of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) deadline requiring vehicles in the 2012 model year to include stability control systems. Volkswagen's ESP technology works in conjunction with anti-lock brakes and helps reduce loss of control and rollovers to avoid crashes. NHTSA predicts nearly 10,000 lives could be saved each year if automakers included stability systems as standard equipment.
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, Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, Tiguan and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.