Winter Storage Parking Spot
If love your Volkswagen Routan, like I love my Routan… I’m wondering where my parking spot is for winter storage. Take care of this beauty.
Volkswagen Routan
The Volkswagen Routan, a minivan that redefined family transportation, enjoyed a brief but memorable production run between 2008 and 2014.
First Generation: 2009-2010
The first-generation Routan, introduced in 2008, was based on the fifth-generation Chrysler minivans. This first iteration was available in S, SE, and SEL trims, catering to a range of budgets and preferences. Standard features included anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and side curtain airbags for all three rows. The Routan offered optional features like power-sliding doors, a power liftgate, and a rear-view camera.
The SEL trim offered luxurious amenities such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a touchscreen navigation system.
- The 3.8-liter V6 and a 4.0-liter V6, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It produced 197 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, and could reach 0-60 mph in 10.2 seconds
- The 4.0-liter V6, a more powerful option, generated 251 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. It could reach 60 mph in 8.9 seconds.
Sales
In 2009, Volkswagen sold 14,714 Routans in the United States, which was followed by 15,961 sales in 2010.
Second Generation: 2011-2012
The second-generation Routan debuted in 2011, featuring exterior and interior updates and improved engine options. The previous 3.8-liter V6 was replaced by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, which produced 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This new engine improved the Routan’s 0-60 mph time to 8.3 seconds, ensuring a more responsive driving experience. Fuel efficiency also increased, with the 2011 Routan achieving 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
The second-generation Routan offered four trims: S, SE, SEL, and SEL Premium, expanding customer choice. The SE trim added features like a power driver’s seat, tri-zone climate control, and an upgraded audio system. The top-of-the-line SEL Premium included features like a rear-seat entertainment system, xenon headlights, and a blind-spot warning system.
Sales
In 2011, Volkswagen sold 12,473 Routans, followed by 10,483 sales in 2012.
Third Generation: 2013-2014
The third-generation Routan arrived in 2013, but with limited changes compared to the previous generation. The 3.6-liter V6 engine remained unchanged, continuing to deliver 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 0-60 mph time also remained consistent, with the third-generation Routan completing the sprint in 8.3 seconds. Fuel efficiency remained the same at 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, keeping it competitive in the minivan segment.
The third-generation Routan was available in three trims: S, SE, and SEL, simplifying the lineup. Standard features on the S trim included keyless entry, dual-zone air conditioning, and a six-speaker audio system. The SE trim offered upgrades such as power-sliding doors, a power liftgate, and leatherette upholstery. The top-tier SEL trim featured amenities like a sunroof, navigation system, and heated front and rear seats.
Optional features for the third-generation Routan included a rear-seat entertainment system and a towing package.
Despite its strengths, the Routan faced strong competition from rivals like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. After struggling to compete in a challenging market, Volkswagen discontinued the Routan after the 2014 model year.
Sales
In 2013, Volkswagen sold only 1,103 Routans, followed by a mere 993 sales in 2014.
The Last Word.
The Volkswagen Routan offered families a stylish and feature-packed alternative to the traditional minivan during its short production run. Each generation showcased improvements in performance, features, and engine options, despite facing stiff competition in the market. Although the Routan was ultimately discontinued, its unique blend of German engineering and American practicality leaves a lasting impression on the minivan segment.
Winter Storage
If you live in an area with harsh winter conditions, it’s a smart move to consider parking your car in winter storage. Not only does it protect your vehicle from potential damage caused by snow, ice, and salt, but it also gives you peace of mind knowing that your car is safe and secure. Storing your car properly during the winter months helps avoid rust, dust, rodents, and anything else. Consider an indoor or outdoor unit from us.