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Volkswagen Routan

Minivan 2009–2012 197–280 hp Petrol

The Volkswagen Routan was a rebadged Chrysler Town & Country minivan sold exclusively in North America, designed to bring VW brand appeal to the American minivan segment.

280 hp

Max Power

2009

Year Introduced

2012

Final Year

Platform (Chrysler)

Overview

The Volkswagen Routan was a minivan produced exclusively for the North American market from 2009 to 2012. Technically it shares the same platform (Chrysler RS) as the Chrysler Town & Country / Dodge Grand Caravan. While Volkswagen differentiated the dashboard, details, and branding strategy, the core mechanics are entirely Chrysler-derived.

The Routan was equipped with Chrysler 3.8L V6 (197 hp) and 4.0L V6 (280 hp) engines. Six-speed automatic transmission was standard. The Stow 'n Go seating system (Chrysler patent) was available in both versions. Production ended in 2012 — sales figures fell well below expectations.

The Routan is not available in Azerbaijan — sold only in the US market. Information about this model is for historical purposes. For family transport in Azerbaijan, the Volkswagen Multivan, Caravelle, or Touran are more suitable choices.

Routan in Pictures

VW Routan (2011) — Chrysler Town & Country rebadge for North America

Key Specifications

Engine: 3.8L V6 (197 hp) or 4.0L V6 (280 hp) — Chrysler-sourced
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Drive: Front-wheel drive
Seating: 7 passengers (Stow 'n Go folding rear seats)
Platform: Chrysler RS (Town & Country / Grand Caravan basis)
Market: USA only
Production: 2009–2012

Variant Comparison

Variant	Powertrain	Power	0–100 km/h	Best For
Routan SE (2009–2012)	3.8L V6, 6-speed auto, FWD	197 hp	9.5s	Entry-level family minivan; Stow 'n Go seating; VW branding
Routan SEL (2009–2012)	4.0L V6, 6-speed auto, FWD	280 hp	7.5s	High power; full equipment; navigation, leather seats; maximum family comfort

Competitor Snapshot

Model	Strength	Compromise
Chrysler Town & Country	Same mechanics; more widespread in American market; lower price	Routan's VW-specific dashboard design created a higher quality feel
Honda Odyssey	Higher reliability; larger aftermarket; fewer breakdowns	Routan's Stow 'n Go seat system transforms faster

Ownership Cost Estimator (Azerbaijan)

Annual distance (km)Fuel consumption (L/100km)Fuel price ($/L)Annual service budget ($)Annual insurance ($)Annual tire/wheel budget ($)

Annual fuel use: 2025.0 L/year
Annual fuel cost: $1519
Total annual ownership estimate: $3719
Average monthly ownership estimate: $310

This model cannot be serviced in Azerbaijan — it is for the North American market only.
The Chrysler 4.0L V6 engine has known reliability issues — a full mechanical inspection is essential if purchasing.

Maintenance & Service in Azerbaijan

Based on Chrysler RS platform — Chrysler Town & Country parts are fully compatible for servicing.
Known issues in the drivetrain of the 4.0L V6 version. Transmission fluid change is recommended every 60,000 km.

Used Buying Checklist — Routan

Before purchasing, perform a full diagnostic of the Chrysler V6 engine.
Check the Stow 'n Go seat mechanism in all positions — breakage is a common problem.
Check transmission sealing — transmission problems are known in the 4.0L version.

Volkswagen Routan FAQ — Azerbaijan Buyers

Q: How does the VW Routan differ from the Chrysler?

The Routan is almost identical to the Chrysler Town & Country — differences are only in dashboard design, VW branding details, and some feature selections. Engine, chassis, and transmission are entirely Chrysler-derived.

Q: Is the Routan a reliable vehicle?

The Chrysler V6 engines (especially the 4.0L) are known for reliability issues. Transmission failures are a common complaint. A full mechanical inspection before purchase is very important. For long-term reliability the Honda Odyssey is a better choice.

Should You Buy? — Volkswagen Routan

Not recommended for Azerbaijan buyers — North American market model only. VW Multivan is a more suitable alternative.

The Volkswagen Routan is a Chrysler platform-based minivan produced only for the American market. There is no service support in Azerbaijan. If you are looking for a family minivan, the Volkswagen Multivan, Caravelle, or Touran are far more suitable choices. While the Routan is historically interesting, it is not recommended for practical ownership in Azerbaijan.