The Chicago Auto Show is just around the corner (actually, media days begin tomorrow) and those folks over at Autobild just couldn't hold it much longer. They have released the official images and information on Volkswagen's new people carrier for the US, the Routan. It's a handsome looking minivan. Not offensive at all, much unlike the offerings of others in the market (I'm looking at you, Nissan and Toyota). The front end, is distinct enough from the Routan's Chrysler/Dodge bretheren. Enough so that those who didn't know better wouldn't have a clue of the shared DNA. Acutally, the front end very well integrates into the Volkswagen norm. It even uses the new iteration of Volkswagen's grille. A- to D-pillar, however, is as Town & Country/Caravan as you can get. The taillights are Volkswagen's own. The same theme continues inside. The whole dashboard looks different enough but when you look at it, you know that you've seen it before.
It's definitely not Volkswagen quality (or ergonomics) but it does look to be above that of Chrysler's and Dodge's. Also unlike the Chrysler/Dodge specimens, the Routan breaks the center stack just below the navigation sysytem, which creates a more horizontal feeling in the cabin as opposed to the Town & Country/Caravan, which is vertically themed. Engine are both Chrysler's with the base being a 3.8L V6 at 197 hp and 230 lb. 4.0L V6 at 251 hp and 259 lb. Both come mated to a 6-speed auto. The question remains, will Volkswagen be able to entice buyers from the Odysseys and Siennas of the world with a minivan that it mechanically the same as the Town & Country and Caravan? If the Routan is successful here, maybe that will convince Volkswagen to give this market more thought next time it gives us a minivan. How about a Microbus revival, or even a Touran/Sharan? Press release and photos after the jump.
Update: Autoblog has a YouTube video of the Routan at the Chicago Auto Show which is after the jump and they also have some photos from the show, as well. Based on the video, the Routan will have an electronically folding third row. The second row looks like they might also fold down (as in Stow 'n Go). CHICAGO - Volkswagen of America today unveiled the Routan, an all new seven-passenger minivan. It delivers the best of both worlds: a vehicle that combines European sensibilities in design, fit and finish, and handling characteristics with market relevant features and outstanding value. The Routan is instantly recognizable as a member of the Volkswagen family, with its stylized front grille and exterior treatments. The interior enhancements create an environment that is visually pleasing, modern, and meticulously detailed. The high quality materials, beautiful textures and rich luxurious colors are combined with exacting tolerances and superb fit and finish. While pleasing and contemporary, the 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. A 4.0L V6 will be available rated at 251 hp and 259 lb. Routan features European tuned suspension and steering optimized for handling and improved driving dynamics. Standard all-season traction control and ESP, brings safety and security to the Routan. 25,000. The Routan will be built in an already existing facility in Windsor, Ontario. With Routan, Volkswagen dealers add a vehicle that will provide additional, incremental growth in the market. A distinctly designed minivan at an attractive price point will broaden the brand portfolio, while providing a roomy alternative to existing Volkswagen owners.
As you鈥檙e no doubt aware, crossovers and SUVs are blazing hot鈥攅ven if you鈥檙e not a huge fan of the things and prefer cars鈥攚e鈥檙e with you there鈥攖here鈥檚 no denying every auto show these days is packed full of significant reveals. That held true at this year鈥檚 New York auto show, where automakers from Ford to Volkswagen rolled out several key new models. Scroll on for the list of the most significant and interesting models on display, and be sure to hit the links to read about them in their entirety. The 2020 Corsair serves as a bookend to Lincoln鈥檚 SUV lineup, its smallest offering now joining the Nautilus (medium), Aviator (large), Navigator (XL), and Navigator L (XXL). And they all have real names! Lincoln says Corsair is inspired by the Latin word cursus, meaning journey, although the term is also much more commonly defined as a pirate or a type of pirate ship. Maybe a pirate on a journey? This year鈥檚 New York auto show saw the world premiere of the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the news that the big luxury SUV is, well, bigger than ever. The 2020 Highlander gets a full makeover that includes a more refined and sculptural aesthetic. If you enjoy riding mountain bikes鈥攐r like burly-looking family haulers鈥擵W has an Atlas concept revealed at the New York auto show that was made for you.
Should I add it to my car shopping list? Q. Should I put the new Jetta on my car shopping list? A. The styling is excellent and the driving characteristics closely match it鈥檚 luxury european cousin Audi. Highway MPG was excellent and the smaller turbocharged engine still performed very well around town. Put the Jetta on your car shopping list. The Jetta has always felt like it was holding itself back and that is why it never felt like the ultimate car it could have been in its segment. The 2019 version of the Volkswagen Jetta promises to change that. Whether it truly does or if it is just a cosmetic facelift, let us find out. There is a marked improvement over the way this car looks. It looks a lot more aggressive and poised. The 17鈥?wheels give it a more stately appearance and the car as a whole seems to have more road presence. There is definitely an improvement when viewing this car from the side.
