The Volkswagen Routan 3.6 V6 Automatic, produced from 2010 to 2013, represented Volkswagen’s entry into the North American minivan market. This model was essentially a rebadged Dodge Grand Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country, resulting from a collaborative agreement between the two automakers. The Routan aimed to provide Volkswagen customers with a practical, spacious family vehicle, leveraging Chrysler’s existing minivan platform while incorporating Volkswagen’s design and engineering touches. The 3.6 V6 Automatic trim sat at the top of the Routan lineup, offering the most powerful engine option and a six-speed automatic transmission. It was positioned as a more premium offering compared to base models, targeting families seeking a comfortable and well-equipped minivan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Routan |
| Generation | Routan |
| Type (Engine) | 3.6 V6 (283 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 year |
| End of production | 2013 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 283 Hp |
| Power per litre | 78.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 353 Nm / 260.36 lb.-ft. |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Pentastar |
| Engine displacement | 3604 cm3 / 219.93 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm / 3.78 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm / 3.27 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l / 5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt |
| Coolant | 12.6 l / 13.31 US qt | 11.09 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4100 l / 144.79 cu. ft. |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1633 kg / 3600.15 lbs. |
| Length | 5143 mm / 202.48 in. |
| Width | 1953 mm / 76.89 in. |
| Height | 1750 mm / 68.9 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3078 mm / 121.18 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R16; 225/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 6.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Routan 3.6 V6 was powered by Chrysler’s Pentastar engine, a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine, designated as the engine code EN, featured a 60-degree V-angle and utilized a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine employed multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The Pentastar engine was known for its relatively smooth operation and decent power output. The Routan paired this engine with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing relatively smooth shifts and adequate responsiveness for everyday driving. The transmission was calibrated for comfort and fuel efficiency rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque provided by the 3.6L V6 and automatic transmission combination offered adequate performance for a minivan. Acceleration was respectable, allowing for confident merging and highway passing. However, it wasn’t a particularly sporty driving experience. The automatic transmission, while smooth, sometimes felt hesitant during quick acceleration. Compared to the base 3.8L V6 Routan, the 3.6L offered a noticeable improvement in power and responsiveness. It didn’t match the quicker acceleration of some competitors, but it provided sufficient power for most family-oriented driving scenarios. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributed to predictable handling, but it wasn’t designed for aggressive cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Routan 3.6 V6 Automatic typically came standard with features such as alloy wheels, power windows and locks, keyless entry, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system, and various driver-assistance features. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on lower trims and leather on higher trims. The dashboard layout was similar to that of the Chrysler Town & Country, with a focus on functionality and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Routan utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The Routan 3.6 V6 came equipped with ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. Steering was handled by a hydraulic power steering system, providing a reasonably responsive feel. The Routan’s suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth and relaxed driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Volkswagen Routan received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While the spacious interior and comfortable ride were praised, the vehicle was often criticized for its rebadged origins and lack of distinct Volkswagen character. The 3.6 V6 engine was generally well-received for its power and smoothness, but some reviewers found the automatic transmission to be somewhat sluggish. Fuel economy was comparable to other minivans in its class, averaging around 16-19 mpg city and 24-26 mpg highway. Compared to the base 3.8L Routan, the 3.6L offered a significant performance upgrade, but it came at a higher price point. Reliability was generally average, with some reports of minor issues with the transmission and electrical systems.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Routan was discontinued after the 2013 model year, as Volkswagen decided to exit the minivan segment in North America. While it didn’t achieve significant sales success, the Routan provided Volkswagen with a temporary offering in a popular vehicle category. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine proved to be relatively reliable, and many Routans remain on the road today. In the used car market, the Routan 3.6 V6 Automatic represents a relatively affordable option for families seeking a spacious and well-equipped minivan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s rebadged origins and potential for minor maintenance issues. The Routan serves as a reminder of Volkswagen’s brief foray into the North American minivan market and the challenges of competing in a segment dominated by established players.
