Volkswagen Routan Model Years and History

The 2012 Routan is just about the same as 2011's model. A few standard equipment items got shuffled around--remote keyless entry now requires SEL trim and above. The leather-wrapped steering wheel requires SE trims and better and the SEL Premium includes a rearview camera system and a 115-volt power outlet.

The 2011 Routan has few changes from last year. Among them, last year's engine lineup has been changed. All Routans now get the new Chrysler-sourced 3.6L V6 as the sole engine configuration. Meteor Gray, Cocoa Bean and Antigua Blue paints are no longer available, replaced with Twilight Gray and Deep Claret, and the standard stereo got a significant upgrade on the SEL, adding 2nd and 3rd-row video screens and iPod integration.

Following its introduction last year, the 2010 Volkswagen Routan minivan receives only minor updates. Among them, Meteor Gray, Cocoa Bean, and Tanzanite exterior colors replace Blonde Maple and Atlantis Blue. A towing package and power sunroof are now standard on SEL and SEL Premium models, while fog lamps and remote start have been added to the SEL Premium. Inside, 3-zone climate control is standard across the model range, as are adjustable pedals and a change from blue display lighting to white. Heated seats are now standard on SE models, and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity has been added to SE, SEL and SEL Premium trims. Navigation is now an option on the SEL, while Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) is optional on SE and SEL models.

The Routan minivan is an all-new model in the Volkswagen lineup. Though the seven-seat Routan is heavily based on Chrysler's minivans and assembled by Chrysler, the Routan has different suspension tuning along with unique sheetmetal and styling cues.