Volkswagen Routan: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Volkswagen Routan is a seven-seat minivan known for flexible family space, strong V6 power, and firmer, more controlled road manners than a typical large people mover. It was sold for the 2009 through 2014 model years.
The Routan paired familiar minivan usefulness with Volkswagen-specific steering and suspension tuning. Throughout its single generation, it focused on carpools, family trips, and hauling bulky gear with removable second-row captain’s chairs and a fold-flat third row. A major 2011 update brought the same 283-horsepower V6 and six-speed automatic to every trim, and that basic formula continued through the end of production.
Strengths
- Its seven-seat cabin works well for carpools and family travel.
- Removable second-row captain’s chairs and a fold-flat third row make it easy to switch between carrying people and cargo.
- Cargo capacity reached 144.4 cubic feet in 2014, giving the Routan room for bulky sports gear or large shopping trips.
- From 2011 onward, every trim used a strong 283-horsepower V6 with a six-speed automatic.
- Volkswagen-specific steering and suspension tuning gave it a firmer, more controlled feel than a typical large minivan.
- The cabin was designed to keep family travel quieter and more comfortable.
Who it's for
The Routan fits families who need three rows, sliding-door convenience, and enough flexibility for passengers one day and bulky cargo the next. It also suits used-minivan shoppers who prefer a firmer, more controlled driving feel and do not need all-wheel drive.
Volkswagen Routan lineup
The S is the straightforward choice for shoppers focused on basic family transportation and cabin flexibility. The SE is the middle step, aimed at buyers who want more comfort, convenience, and entertainment equipment without moving to the top trim. The SEL Premium is the most fully equipped version and is the one to seek for the Routan’s higher-end comfort and technology features. Late-production offerings became narrower, and 2014 models were built for fleet use rather than ordinary retail sale.
Volkswagen Routan generations
From 2009 to 2014, the Routan spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2009.
1st Generation (2009–2014)
The Routan’s first and only generation was a seven-seat minivan related to Chrysler vans, but with Volkswagen-specific styling, cabin details, seats, steering, and suspension tuning. Early models used two different V6 engines; for 2011, the whole lineup switched to a 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic.
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2014
The final model year was limited to fleet-focused S, SE, and SEL Premium configurations, with no significant mechanical or styling changes.
2013Trim changes
The trim lineup became much smaller, but the powertrain, seating, and overall design carried over.
2012
Upper trims gained a few convenience and safety features, including keyless entry, push-button start, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic detection.
2011
Every trim switched to a 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic, and more airbags became standard. The styling and overall design carried over.
2010
The basic lineup and two-engine setup carried over, with only minor equipment reshuffling within trims.
2009New generation
The all-new Routan debuted with seven seats, Volkswagen-specific styling and cabin details, two V6 engines, and firmer steering and suspension tuning than its Chrysler relatives.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Volkswagen Routan.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Volkswagen Routan a minivan or an SUV?
The Volkswagen Routan is a minivan. It has three rows, sliding side doors, seating for seven, and a flexible cargo area designed for family and passenger-hauling duties.
How many people does the Volkswagen Routan seat?
The Volkswagen Routan seats seven. Its layout uses two front seats, removable second-row captain’s chairs, and a split third-row bench that folds flat for cargo.
Does the Volkswagen Routan come as a hybrid?
No. Every Volkswagen Routan uses a gasoline V6. Earlier vans had either a 3.8-liter or 4.0-liter engine, while 2011 and newer models use a 3.6-liter V6 with 283 horsepower.
Does the Volkswagen Routan have AWD?
No. The Volkswagen Routan is front-wheel drive throughout its run. AWD was not part of the lineup.
How much cargo space does the Volkswagen Routan have?
The Volkswagen Routan has up to 144.4 cubic feet of cargo room. Reaching that maximum involves removing the second-row captain’s chairs and folding the split third row flat.
Who is the Volkswagen Routan a good fit for?
The Routan suits someone who needs seven seats and flexible room for carpools, trips, groceries, or sports gear. Its removable middle-row seats and fold-flat third row favor utility, while Volkswagen-specific tuning gives it a firmer, more controlled road feel.
How many generations of the Volkswagen Routan are there?
There is one Routan generation, covering 2009 through 2014. The main update came for 2011, when every trim received a 3.6-liter V6, a six-speed automatic, and added airbag coverage.
Can the Volkswagen Routan tow a trailer?
Yes. Routan towing ratings range from 2,000 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the van’s setup. Check the specific vehicle’s equipment and rating before towing.