Two engines are available: a 3.8-liter, 197-hp V-6 and a 4.0-liter, 253-hp V-6. Both are backed up by a six-speed automatic. As for acceleration, there is some.
The Routan will be a brief footnote in the long history of VW and perhaps an endnote in the saga of Chrysler. I expect soon enough VW will cancel its order with Windsor and give us the Microbus, and all will be forgiven.
Mostly.
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dan.neil@latimes.com
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BEGIN TEXT OF INFOBOX
2009 VW Routan SE
Base price: $29,700
Price as tested: $33,000 (est.)
Powertrain: 3.8-liter, overhead valve V-6; six-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive
Horsepower: 197 at 5,200 rpm
Torque: 230 pound-feet at 4,000 rpm
Curb weight: 4,507 pounds
Wheelbase: 121.2 inches
Overall length: 202.5 inches
0-60 mph: 10.2 seconds
EPA fuel economy: 17 miles per gallon city, 25 mpg highway
Final thoughts: Showroom planter
Source: Volkswagen
