History of the Routan

When Did Volkswagen Stop Making the Routan?

The minivan segment isn’t quite as popular as it once was. Over the years we’ve watched as top automakers discontinue their production of minivans in favor of crossovers and midsize SUVs. As you may remember, Volkswagen had a minivan themselves once upon a time: the Volkswagen Routan. The seven-seater is no longer in production. When did Volkswagen stop making the Routan and why? Find out here!

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History of the VW Routan

The minivan was first introduced in 2008 for the 2009 model year. Manufactured alongside Dodge and Chrysler minivans at the Windsor Assembly plant in Ontario, the Routan was an attempt by Volkswagen to market a vehicle specifically for the United States. It was also the first minivan offered by Volkswagen since the Volkswagen Eurovan in 2003. With a standard 3.6L V6 engine that produced 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, it offered quite a bit of power but soon lost popularity due to the price. While the $28,000 MSRP wasn’t terrible, it was much more than similar models that offered basically the same thing. Volkswagen rolled out the last Routan in 2013 for the 2014 model year.

Volkswagen Models Similar to the Routan

Unfortunately, Volkswagen no longer has a minivan to offer interested car shoppers. However, you can find a similar model that will serve the same purpose and provide more than the Routan actually did. The Volkswagen Atlas is a midsize SUV that offers seven seats – the same as the Routan – and 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space. It also offers a panoramic sunroof, 12.3-inch display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and much more.

If you miss the Routan, that’s totally fine – just know that you can get something better from Volkswagen! If you’re interested in checking out the SUV or any of the other Volkswagen models, come check them out here at Hall Volkswagen in Brookfield and schedule a test drive on our website!