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2009 ROUTAN: A STYLISH ALTERNATIVE TO THE MINIVAN
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™ 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.
Electronic Stabilization Program Technology Backgrounder
All 2009 Volkswagens come standard equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program
(ESP). ESP has been called the most important safety device since the safety belt and the
most important safety advance of this generation. To paraphrase one auto writer, "it's
like having a guardian angel as your co-pilot."
ESP Snapshot
Helps prevent oversteer and understeer (fishtailing).
Uses technology applied in the Stealth aircraft to keep it aloft to measure the spin of the vehicle.
Applies computer technology to help the driver maintain control.
NHTSA research found ESC could save 10,000 lives a year.
ESC Advantage
Multiple studies from the U.S., Europe and Asia have concluded that vehicles equipped
with ESC have in the range of 35 percent fewer crashes. NHTSA studies conducted
specifically in the U.S. concluded that passenger cars equipped with ESC experienced a
30 percent reduction in fatal single vehicle crashes. The same study concluded that
SUVs equipped with ESC experienced a 63 percent reduction in fatal single-vehicle
crashes. The NHTSA research saw a reduction in crashes that also involve a rollover by
more than 70 percent. The studies conducted by NHTSA and others reached similar
findings when it came to reducing the incidence of crashes overall: vehicles equipped
with ESC saw a significant net reduction in crashes. The agency predicts that ESC could
save 10,500 lives and prevent between 168,000 and 252,000 injuries every year. That
equates to more than $40 billion savings in economic losses in the U.S. alone.
One independent study conducted in 2006 by the prestigious Insurance Institute for
Highway Safety (IIHS) concluded that ESC could prevent nearly one-third of all fatal
crashes and reduce the risk of rolling over by as much as 80 percent.
ESP takes advantage of the great advances in electronics that have occurred in the past 20
years to be in the vanguard of active or primary safety systems. ESP is the sum of three
functions — antilock brakes that enable individual braking and control at the four comers
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