Used 2009 Volkswagen Routan Minivan Consumer Reviews
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Great Van
J, 04/15/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL CARB 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We looked at everything and decided on the Routan because to the style and drivability. Bluetooth, dual sliders, nav, and JoyBox a plus. The engine is solid and fun to drive, from what I can tell you need to get the SEL or above to really get a good idea on the quality of the vehicle.
Buy Something Else
TO, 05/12/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We are completely dissatisfied with this van. Nothing but transmission issues. Trans. leaked at 2800 mi, failed and was rebuilt at 8600 mi and valve body replaced again at 10,000 mi. Dealer had it for 10 out of the first 51 wks. Typical for a Chrysler based product. VW should be ashamed to have their badge on this van. Other issues, creaking noises from the RES and door panels. Rattling noises in the suspension. Power lift gate was malfunctioning. Rotors replaced at 600 mi. At one year old and 11,000 miles you should not have to worry about the vehicle falling apart. The MPG is poor, 12 in town,21 at best on Prem fuel on a trip. Using the Lemon Law for the trans. issues. Buy Toyota or Honda
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Great Van
busymom, 05/28/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL CARB 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We converted from the Honda. Best thing we EVER did. This car is fun to drive and fun to ride in. It is much more quiet then the Honda. Our family has taken it on two long trips and it was so much more comfortable than the Honda. We read all the reviews and feel like the Routan was great by the experts, but the people who live with it liked it. We love it!
The Good and The Bad!
thayes82, 08/31/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my Routan for exactly 30 days. On day 28 I was traveling with a friend and 5 kids. The transmission acted up and wouldn't go out of first. We were stranded in small town. Mind you my van only had 1050 miles on it. Anyway, the good is VW roadside was Awesome, they picked up the van delivered it to the nearest dealership and are fixing it now. They gave us a rental so I am impressed with VW service. They are replacing the valve body on my van and hopefully there will be no more issues. I love my van and am very hopeful nothing else goes wrong and this was just a fluke!
1st time van owner
matt, 09/04/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL CARB 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have never owned a minivan and was suspect to performance. We have owned this for about a month and love it. Took it on a road trip over a weekend, put about 1000 miles on it and it felt great. Extremely comfortable, and instruments easy to use. Nav system is a must with interactive traffic redirection. Am getting about 15 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway.We have had to bring in for service once as condensation was building inside the headlight assembly. The transmission is smooth, but with 6 speeds the gear ratio makes for a lot of shifting.
problems
carguy, 08/31/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan S 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had this van for about a year and a half and the transmission has gone out twice now. The first time was at 6k miles and the second was at 15k. On top of that they kept my van in the shop for 2 months the first time and one month the second. That's 3 months without my van. I've heard every excuse in the book, couldn't get all the parts, their tech wasn't qualified so they had to wait on an out of state tech to come in to fix it. Volkswagen's customer care were very nice and apologetic but couldn't get anything resolved. Every decision they make seemed to take a week. It's been a month and I still don't have my van back, still waiting on parts and they are very sorry. It's been a month
Don't buy this car...
bbaak, 10/13/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is 95% chrysler! First and foremost. If you want a VW, DONT BUY THIS. This is a Chrysler rebadged as a VW. The Only thing VW besides the logo is the suspension. I was told only the frame and the engine....but sorry the whole thing is Chrysler. VW sells 4 different vans in Germany, but now I'm stuck with a car that has lost 30% of it's value in less than one year. IF I knew then what I know now I would leased it at least then I'd be able to mess w/ VW back as they would have to eat MOST of the cost on this car at surrender time. IF you want a routan buy a Town and Country....go to a VW dealer buy logo's and stick them on.....same thing!!!!!!
A day didn't go by when something broke!
trixR4kids, 12/24/2008
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL Premium CARB 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
It got to the point where virtually every day of ownership meant something else on this barge didn't fall off, break off, peel off or just plain disappear! Electronics were especially "gremlin filled" nightmares. Door locks would stop working, then start locking or unlocking by themselves. Fuel gauge would sit there and pulsate F to E like it was alive! Dash lighting would fade to nothing at night, then come back on brightly until it repeated the blackout thing. After some negotiations, we took it into the dealer and drove out a new Tourag. Then I found out that this thing was built by Chrysler....now I understand!
Excellent Dependable Van
Old Guy/Old Van - Still Moving, 10/27/2021
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL Premium 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
10/27/2021 I purchased my 2009 Routan (classic white/very clean) with a little over 100k+ miles for $3100, now 2 years later with less than 110k? I wish that I could buy another one if/when this one finally dies. Right after I bought it (deceptive seller), 1 new motor mount, 4 struts, 2 cv joints, brake pads, class II trailer hitch, all installed for around $1k. 6 months ago 4 new Continental tires about $550. One problem was & occasionally is a momentary NO start computer glitch which happens every few months or so? VW service manager/supervisor stated "NO fix guarantee" if put on VW computer analyzer for $1200. OUTCOME? I'll live with my glitch. POSITIVES? - Fast and peppy, handles well in sticky situations, excellent brakes, smooth ride, lots of storage room. All in all I really like my van and thankful to have found it while looking online for other vans. (I never knew VW had a Routan van?) In short, if I knew beforehand everything I've stated herein, I'd still buy this van. I've had more problems and bigger expenses with brand new vehicles purchased in years past. When it's time I'll head to the Chrysler Town & Country dealer (nomo VW Routan being made/rebranded) anf buy a top of the line, large engine van all-over-again. At 73 yrs old I Love my van which has never left me and always starts (sometimes not as fast as I want). Great van for an old art buyer that always has multiple pieces inside from low value to unbelievably/extreme values inside an old van. Love My Van
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Just..great
fabio, 05/30/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL CARB 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I get 400 miles already..its my first new car and Im so happy with mine..I get 2 kids and my mother..all of them cant be happier with our van..every thing is great..roomy..softh..strong..cool..good price..all the toys..blue tooth..sattelite radio..2 tv screens plus 1 radio/video screen..30gb hard disc..compatible with ipod..power doors..power seats..every thing..good cuality materials...what else u wants ?
Not worth the money!!!
Melissa, 03/25/2019
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Its a pile of junk. One repair after another. I have owned 3 minivans and this one is the worst. Will never buy a Volkswagen again.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Wish I Hadn't
GirlyGirl, 05/20/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought an SEL with Rear Entertainment to haul family of 6 around. Found it more comfortable than the Odyssey and was swayed by the power rear windows and dual TV's - 2 things Honda doesn't offer. 3rd row is horribly uncomfortable, cheap interior, and RES system is a nightmare to operate. The radio was replaced within 8 months of owning it and it rattles constantly. The gas mileage is awful for a mini- van. I've tried to get rid of it 2x but with the finance specials VW keeps running, I'm stuck.
Worst invesment ever
mojo, 06/11/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have 28,000k on my routan and I already changed brakes 2 times, stereo, and front end. I have problem with the transmission the sliding doors and the engine is burning oil. The dealer keeps ignoring me and delaying the repair process. They even denied it is burning oil until I took it to them and asked them to check it for and they came to tell me it is fine so I took it to a mechanic and he confirmed it is burning oil then they said the engine breather is. I cannot sell it or trade it because its value sunk in the ground especially when they stopped making it.
Not bad, but a few glitches
ontheroadagain, 07/08/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
It is a very comfortable ride. The 3rd row folds flat giving enough room for a family's week worth of luggage and a 100 lb dog with extra space left over. Mechanically, we had moisture buildup inside one of the headlights. That took an entire day for the dealership to fix and they only do it during the week. The sliding doors randomly decide when they want to close. Of course, this never happens at the dealer. We don't get notices about recalls. We find out when we take it for oil changes. So far, we are at 5 total. These surprise "campaigns", as VW calls them, add unexpected time at the dealership - and extra trips when the parts arrive.
A Dodge with VW emblem
Kfry, 07/16/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Purchased for cross country trip and move to Hawaii. When the vehicle arrived at the dealership (we ordered it to our specs) we were excited. That didn't last long as the steering pulled left. Dealer tried to fix but unsuccessful and we were stuck with it pulling slightly left (don't take your hands off the wheel!) The drive cross country went well. In Hawaii we started have transmission problems. We took it to the dealer 4 times and had the trans replaced twice. It seems to work now. Horrible gas mileage. How can VW tout this van as one of their products. I have owned 2 other VW and loved them. This was the biggest purchase mistake I have made. If I wanted a Dodge I would have gotten one.
Lemon
Anna, 10/14/2022
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Day 1 dash lights on for ABS,BRAKES DAY 2 CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON DAY 3 LEAKY VALVE COVER GASKETS DONT TRUST IT.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Problem after problem
Ojh, 10/05/2019
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
We brought this minivan on 2010. After 6 month we need brought a new rotors. A lot vibrations on the wheel. After 8 months a recall. The cooling system hoses we are replaced 3 times. And know here we our going for another one. The last 30 days we don't have idea what is the problem: the battery, the starter. I'm try to turn on and is almost impossible. The baterr was replaced on July 2018, 18 months after we replaced it.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Lemon
Rourke, 02/02/2016
2009 Volkswagen Routan S 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
From the moment I bought the car it was in the shop 6 time. This last repair is going to cost me at least $1500 for the TIPM. This is crazy. Why is this allowed to happen?
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
Best van of all
richie74, 04/20/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
We've had it only for a week but so far it's been great. The interior it's roomy and comfortable the kids love the rear dvd. We compared and test drive every single van in the market before going with VW and you get a lot more for your money compared with the others. This is our 5th VW and we have nothing to say but excellent thing about them
2010 Routon REL
no_more_vws, 03/15/2013
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
2 of 7 people found this review helpful
Bought a used (20k miles) one and its nothing but problems. Doesnt start all the time. New battery, new starter...wont start. While in gear and idleing forward it shakes the vehicle. At highway speed it surges like tranny slipping. Rear electric seat stopped working and its rarely used. Sliding door on passenger side makes a horrible noise when opening, was told its fine. Pulls to the right. 2 sets of tires in 40k miles. 3 alignments. I think this vehicle was wrecked and they didnt tell us. Bought one year old from dealer for $29k (less than book value) one year and 20k miles later its worth $19k??? WTF!! still owe $26k. Odyssey is next.
Unsafe, Unreliable, Multiple Repair Issues
usmcwifesocal, 06/21/2011
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
1 of 8 people found this review helpful
Puchased van in Aug.'09. Delivered t us with a broken antenna (replaced, and then replaced again a year later due to rusting). Rear DVD screen went black sreplaced. Seat covers came apart at seams, window shade fraued, headliner panel and AC vent came loose, arm rest cracked (replaced all), windshield wipers stopped randomly several times (never fixed -failed to replicate), windows and doors failed numerous occasions (3 year old son's hand was caught in door when pinch guard failed and manually had to be pried off of him) -problem unresolved), brake pads and rotors all around have had issues (back pads were recalled, rotors machined 2x in 1 year, VW now says we must pay $1000 to replace all)
Highs and Lows
berne1, 01/19/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan S 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Got our S model 10 months ago for the great lease payment. Some nitpicks are our fault (for getting the base model), while others are VW/Chrysler's. The 3.8L is fine for the driving my wife does, which is basically back & forth to kids' school. MPG doesn't really matter when you put as few miles on as we do! Best handling/riding minivan I've driven! Way roomier & more useful than the SUV we turned in. Quality issues include sliders that don't open in temps below 30 degrees, a tire pressure monitor that is constantly on, and some rattles. Over time I've noticed much more suspension noise.
Check this van out!
Jay, 01/14/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love this van. My wife was very hesitant to purchase another minivan after owning a Sienna, but feels fortunate we did.
run away as fast as you can!
disappointed, 04/02/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan S 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased a new 2009 Routon S. Nothing but problems! Headlamp held water, bumper cover started coming- off, trans seal leak, engine compartment rattle, stock ventshades would not stick to the windows, 2 window motors, all of this within 9 months. Bob King VW did not apparently know how to do a proper trns service, which led to the rattle. Took a tech from Charlotte to figure it out! No trans dipstick and the dealer and VW district rep would not order one when asked, even said I would pay for it! Be prepared for pure frustration with the vehicle, dealer, and VW of America. Also be prepared to hire an attorney, as VW of America is a useless car co. Avoid VW and Chrysler at all costs.
First Mini-Van
love-the-routan, 07/20/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first mini-van and I am more than happy. The price was very fair compared to competitors and the ride is so smooth. Visually, I believe it is the best out there.
Dont Make My Mistake.
Gregg, 04/19/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Not impressed, what a mistake. The transmission shifts way too often. The around town mileage is horrible. (11) & to top it all off the dealership cat fix it properly because its actually a Chrysler. If you want a Town & Country then buy one at least Chrysler can fix it for you without having to run to the other dealership to obtain parts.
A nice Ride
Jerry, 04/19/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan S 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle rides a lot better than the 61 bus we had in San Francisco. We feel we are back to our roots. We owned a couple of Caravans and I know this is mostly a Chrysler car but the addition of European technology gives it an added plus. Do miss the Stow--go however. We went into get a light bulb for my wife's Jetta and left with the 09 Routan. My son loves the second row seat heaters and the entertainment system. The seats are more comfortable than the Caravan and it rides quieter. Mileage is ok, good on a trip, not so good in town. We took one Caravan to 197,000 miles. Hope to do the same with the Routan.
From Odyssey to Routan - Great Decision!
JB, 05/04/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We traded our 06 Honda Odyssey for a 09 Routan (SEL w/ RSE) and I LOVE my Routan. It is so much smoother and quieter than my Odyssey. I love the get-up and go it offers. The seats are extremely comfortable, and I love the extra features we were able to get that aren't offered by the Honda. With all of the incentives VW is offering right now, we were able to get an amazing price for an amazing vehicle. It is truly my favorite vehicle that I've ever owned.
Regretful
Pal, 08/02/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL CARB 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After extensive research, we opted with VW 2009 Routan SEL/w RSE because of the interior design, engine, reputation of German vehicles, offered discounts and largely for the 0% (zero percent) financing for 72 months. Although we like the Van, the Chrysler/Dodge engineering prevails over the VW quality and reliability. We owned the vehicle for a little over a month and we already have few problems. Within a week of purchase, the Van starts making a huge cloud of smoke and oily mixture comes out of the exhaust pipe whenever the engine is turned on. The dealer said that the PVC-valve has to be replaced in addition to few other things. Then when it rains, water gets into the headlight assem
Great Van
J, 04/25/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL Premium 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This van is amazing.To bad it looks so much like a chrysler product, I think that really hurts it credibility. I spent 2 weeks in Sanfrancisco area and never saw one any where not even on my 1,200 mile drive there, nor have I seen one in washington where I live.This van is amazing, drives like a dream and is very comfortable for my fam of 6. The 4.0 v6 has lots of power and shifts so smooth, it has a raspy exaust that reminds me of an infinity suv. The projector beam head lamps turn night into day. I told my wife its vary funny that I sit and boast about my van as my friend is boasting about his new Lexus IS 250... I guess the van makes me forget I am driving a van,, I am impressed.
Cool Family hauler
St John, 04/22/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL Premium 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We love the Routan or as my wife named it Rudy. So many family frendly features. The style is unique, sporty and not too common. GET the 4.0 v6 w/ 6 speed. The engine is quick and smooth. We get 22 mpg on hwy & 18 city. VW has been great to work with too.
VW Loads it up
sid, 05/16/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just want to say that I enjoy every little bit of this car. I got a good deal on it ($26,000) for a SE with Rear Entertainment for the kids. Doesn't have stow n go but has storage inside the floor(love it). Brand new is $31000, drives awesome and much more comfy than Sienna or Odyssey more stiffer then Sienna though but i like it myself. Check it out though1. Drives good 2VW warranty and care free maintenance + rear entertainment + XM radio sun roof can you get that with Toyota or Honda? They just marketed better and have been around longer.
Likes and dislikes
kjthomas323, 05/28/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL CARB 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very poor city driving mileage. We came from an Odyssey so we were surprised at this. The interior leather looks cheap (thanks to the Chrysler design). The kids constantly bump their heads on the DVD players when going in and out of the vehicle so keeping the screens closed helps! Other than that, we have not taken it on a long trip, so I can't judge comfort or gas mileage fully. It has 6k miles on it and I hope we are one of the lucky ones that does not incur any mechanical issues. We love the sched. maint. We love the options i.e. remote start and heated rear seats, for the money it is a good deal. I have owned 4 VW's so far. Hope this one is built just as well.?! Only time will tell
I like it!
nich617, 02/10/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan S 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only owned the Routan for 4 days now but so far so good. There is SO much space. The gas mileage isn't bad for a minivan. It is definitely the best looking minivan out right now. I'm a little nervous about the fact that Chrysler has a hand in producing them but time will tell.
Hidden gem - best deal on the market
Richard, 05/12/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car. With twins on the way, we knew it was minivan time and dutifully test drove the Sienna and Odyssey. We looked at the Routan initially as an afterthought, but my wife was sold within minutes. The designers really understand how families will use this car, while the options and price VW crushed the competition. And, I have to admit, the car is fun to drive. the 4.0 v6 is powerful, I love the handling, the family is comfortable and, with the entertainment system, occasionally entertained on long drives. The nav system is terrific and the dashboard elegant and useful, particularly at night. I was a lifelong Toyota buyer, but not anymore.
Needs to be more of a VW
RAS5, 08/30/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL Premium 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a nice van and I am happy with it for the most part. I do wish the two following improvements arte made. 1) needs to be a bit sharper on handling and have a more european ride 2) where is the wonderful 3.0 TDI engine to improve economy?. I bet sales will double if that engine was available.
My wife and I love this minivan!
Laine Adrian, 06/14/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We looked and looked for 3 months prior to settling with the VW. I am a German car fanatic and had only owned Mercedes and VWs in my recent past. My wife was more open so we looked at the different brands. The need for a minivan came apparent when our second child arrived and between two child seats and all the "stuff" that you need, our sedan had been outgrown. The Routan felt more comfortable, more powerful, my wife really likes the amenities that it has and how it handles. VW, Honda and Toyota models do compete however, the VW takes the title for looks, comfort, performance and style. I've seen cites comparing the Routan with Kia and honestly, they aren't even in the same league.
VW reputation intact
late74C, 08/27/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just purchased my new VW Routan last weekend as part of a cash for clunker deal. Have an SEL w/trim pkg 3 and navi. This will be our 3rd minivan since '90 (a '90 and '97 Dodge Gr Caravan) and so far like this one the best, lot's of little extras, comfy seats, great power and ride. Only rated it an '8' on reliability as we had a 'no-start' situation this past Monday but this is the reason for the review -- VW's roadside assistance arranged a tow to the dealer who handled it quickly -- it turned out to be loose connections in the master fuse panel. We have multiple cars so it was no bother as well as they updated the navi system once a complete check of electrical was done. Great job VW!
So-So Van
Russ, 06/15/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love the ride. The shifting from first gear is awkward at best. In town gas mileage weak. 2nd row seats are locked in place which limits leg room. Also miss the stow-n-go of my GC. Ceiling is low, I tend to bump my head getting over the cup of the seats. Have had several problems from brakes to sliding doors. So far not impressed with maintenance at the dealership. They seem to be disorganized and compartmentalized. VW needs to rethink their plans for this vehicle. Either get in without Chrysler, or get out.
The "I'll never drive a minivan" Minivan
Abby, 09/08/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I swore I'd never drive a minivan. Hate the way they look, hate the big size, hate the soccer mom stereotype. But then I met the Routan. It drives like a dream and was worth overcoming my hangups. Hubby says he feels like he's floating (tho only the SEL has the bigger engine). It is as beautiful as a minivan can get. Seats are very comfortable, handling is precise and nimble, and the VW styling is quite nice. Great cargo hold behind front seats; easy bluetooth with Uconnect; nice tailgate seats in back; plenty of cupholders, electric outlets, storage. I really wanted the RSE for the kids, but we couldn't afford it. Instead I bought 2 tablet style dvd players with headrest clamps. Perfect.
A fun to drive minivan? Yes!
martsro, 08/02/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We've had our Routan for a little over a year and 21K miles later it is still fun to drive. So far we have not had any repairs other than the free scheduled maint. Have had several issues with the automatic doors not wanting to close. Very frustrating!! Factory Bridgestone tires are horrible. Will probably need to be replaced within the next 5K miles. 4.0 V6 has plenty of power. No trouble merging into highway traffic. Fuel economy isn't the greatest in town (16mpg). Average around 19 mpg in combined driving. Averaged 23 mpg on a trip from tx to in. Kids love it. Plenty of storage thanks to the in- floor storage. Tons of cup holders. Third-row seat is a little cramped, ok for kids.
Routan Rocks
Kevin, 08/15/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
*Exterior is beautiful (best looking minivan in my opinion) *Love the features (i.e. stow & go, power windows in rear dual sliders, sunroof, traction control, stability control, and much more) *Interior is improved over the Grand Caravan *Suspension is much better than Grand Caravan (thanks VW)
Better than Dodge or Chrysler
jbanger, 08/30/2010
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I know this is a Chrysler product but Routan does perform better. I compared to Town & Country rental. Routan is more responsive and comfortable. The exhaust is raspy and I fear the sliding doors will be a future pain. I think the brakes are not enough for this large vehicle. The 2nd row seats are a little sticky to move. Warranty is great.
It lets you keep your masculinity
willida, 09/18/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Routan SEL. The ride and the steering feel different enough to get you excited. It's not a Ferrari, but at least it doesn't drive and look like a Mommy wagon. The power doors are a godsend. So are the wireless headphones. The only drawback in my case is that they supply 2 headphones but I have 3 kids. I also like the 3-zone automatic A/C. The 4.0L gets the best gas mileage of all mini-vans sold in America, according to the EPA. I'm not seeing that kind of gas mileage yet, but the engine only has 950 miles on it, and most of our driving has been less than 10 miles at a time.
We love our 2009 Volkswagen Routan
table4five, 04/03/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We just bought a new Routan and couldn't be happier with our purchase. The van drives nice, has great styling and convenient interior features. I test drove the Honda Odyssey, Nissan Quest and Dodge Caravan and thought the Routan was much nice & more fun to drive. We have three kids and they are loving it so far, too. The 2 movie screens are great for watching different movies. The seats are also very comfortable and roomy. I feel like I can move around the cabin much more easily than the other minivans, and I think it drives better and more quietly.
My new ROUTAN
Routan, 05/28/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL CARB 4dr Minivan (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was a great purchase, its the first care I purchase in a while since I have been leasing. I never thought I would say this about a minivan but after drinving it I have to say that it is fun to drive this mini-van. Lots of room for the kids and adults. Need to get screens for dvd, hope they make it standard on higher sel model, but even without it the kids love it. My wife never thought she would drive a mini-van, but she loves our routan. Would highly recommend it for a family. Go with the 4.0l v6 as I felt the 3.8 was quite weak for my standards, but the 4.0 got a kick to it, make sure u drive both to tell the difference.
follow up, not as nice as I thought..
nich617, 09/22/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan S 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I wrote a review shortly after purchasing this van. While I still like it, I am very disappointed that we have to get ALL seven seats replaced because they are all tearing at the seam...even on some of the seats we don't sit on! First the passenger seat went and they replaced that seat. We went back to the dealership (not the dealer we purchased from - I am sure we would've gotten better service from them but they are much farther away) 2 months ago to show them the rest of our seats. We are still "waiting" for the parts to come in. I hope this doesn't happen to everyone else...
almost there in MV leadership
sid, 09/22/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought our minivan three months ago. We have put on almost 3500 miles traveling long distances (NJ to NC and back) and we love the ride and ample storage ...our kids love the rear ent system . My gripe is with the design of the DVD player and the environment controls...too hard to read when driving. Yes I know this is a T&C with German suspension however I wish VW had input on enhancing the dash.
Dazed and Confused
DazedConfused, 09/30/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SE 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (3.8L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 3.8L engine is horribly underpowered and the transmission is too anxious to find a home in 6th gear. Trying to accelerate to get on the freeway leaves me depressed as I watch the fuel gauge race to the left faster than the car gains speed. The ride is smooth and the entertainment features make a ride of any duration tolerable. The interior features are pleasant and the exterior looks eerily similar to the Dodge and Chrysler.
VW Routan 09 Pulls to the right
DP, 10/01/2009
2009 Volkswagen Routan SEL CARB 4dr Minivan w/Rear Seat Entertainment (4.0L 6cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchase VW Routan this year and immediately noticed during the first week that the van pulls to the right. Took it to the dealer and they tried few things but no luck. They balanced tires, installed new ones and still the issue still present. I have contact VW customer service and reported to them of the problem. There is also a passenger side sliding door problem. The door will not stay latched open at incline. Overall, not happy with the van. I owned odyssey before and this van doesn't really compare well to Honda for the drive.