2009 Volkswagen Routan

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Exterior - What the Auto Press Says

In a class notorious for bland exteriors, the Volkswagen Routan makes a statement as an aesthetically-pleasing Minivan. While it doesn't break any major ground style-wise, it is considered a definite upgrade over the Grand Caravan and the Town & Country.

• "Volkswagen's decision to endow the Routan with a unique exterior pays handsome dividends. In order to create its own sense of corporate visual character, VW kept only the side door panels, glass and windshield from the Chrysler minivan donor platform. Up front, the Routan's prominent grille, air intakes and aero headlamps impart an arguably more sophisticated flavor with recognizable VW flair." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "Gone is the odd boxy shape of the Dodge/Chrysler, replaced with a rearmost pillar that looks like it came off of a VW Touareg SUV. Combined with the new taillights, it makes the VW Routan look significantly better than its platform-mates." -- MyRide
• "It still looks like a Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan from the outside. Although the Routan wears unique front sheetmetal and VW claims that all body panels have been massaged, the upright profile and hard edges of the Chrysler box can't be covered with mere makeup." -- Car and Driver