Auto Guide
2012 Volkswagen Routan
Used

Review and specifications

2012 Volkswagen Routan

None of us liked the Routan when we tested it in 2009. It's really just a slightly tweaked and rebadged version of the dated Chrysler Town & Country minivan without the Town & Country's handy fold-in-the-floor second-row seats or swiveling captain's chairs. High points include a composed ride, a reasonably powerful 4.0-liter engine, and a quiet cabin. But handling is on the clumsy side, fuel economy is mediocre, and even the up-level engine lacks refinement. The power folding third-row seat and rear hatch operate slowly. The 2014 models were sold to fleet only.

Market value
$4,363
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
7
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2012
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability Not rated
Data updated December 4, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
minivan extended
Drive type
FWD
Transmission
Automatic, 6-speed
Category
Minivans 3-row
Generation began
2009

Pricing

Current retail median
$4,363
Retail value range
$3,075 - $4,500
Original MSRP range
$27,020 - $44,280
Trade-in range
$745 - $1,755

Ratings

Road test score
65/100

Fuel economy

Tested city
10 MPG
Tested highway
27 MPG
Tested overall
16 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$2,405
Cruising range
325 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.3 sec
0-60 mph
8.6 sec
60-0 mph braking
147 ft
Avoidance speed
47.5 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
203 in
Width
77 in
Height
69 in
Wheelbase
121 in
Weight
4,495 lb
Maximum load
1,150 lb
Towing capacity
3,600 lb

Interior

Seating
7 people
Front head room
4 in
Front leg room
40 in
Rear head room
4 in
Rear leg room
27.5 in
Cargo volume
61.5 cu ft
Luggage
4+0+0

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
6/10
Greenhouse gas score
4/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Volkswagen

Most Volkswagens are well-built, agile, fun-to-drive cars that feel slightly more premium than their competitors. Its lineup is focused on SUVs, most of which have spacious, comfortable interiors and unexpectedly responsive driving dynamics. Its Golf hatchback, especially in performance trims, is a rare balance of practicality and driving thrills. Most models, including its EVs, have excellent fit and finish. Brand-wide downsides include unintuitive controls and infotainment systems, and below-average reliability for new cars. Reliability for used VWs is average.

Vehicle ID: 5943 First published: July 22, 2020 Updated: December 4, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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