Debuting at the 2008 Chicago Motor Show, the Routan combines European taste in design, finish and handling characteristics with market relevant features.

"Routan" is a newly coined word indicating the bond between Volkswagen and America; it contains both the English word "route" as well as the "-an" suffix which is appended to the names of Volkswagen's European vans - Touran and Sharan.

The new minivan is a joint development with Chrysler LLC. The vehicle will be built in the Canadian Chrysler factory in Windsor, Ontario and with prices starting from below $25,000.

Design

As specified by VW, "both the interior and the exterior follow Volkswagen's clear design concept": the Routan is instantly recognizable as a Volkswagen thanks to its stylized front grille and exterior treatments.

Among the characteristics adapted to the US market are the generous dimensions, with a total length of more than five metres.

The seven-seater interior also follows the traditional Volkswagen design philosophy that form follows function.

The Routan will come standard with a 3.8L V6, offering 197 hp and 230 lb. ft. of torque when combined with the standard six-speed automatic transmission. A 4.0L V6 will be available rated at 253 hp and 263 lb. ft. of torque.

(Source: Volkswagen)