Volkswagen Routan Not Dead Yet, Just On A Long Hiatus

Derek Kreindler
by Derek Kreindler

Despite rumors of its impending demise, the Volkswagen Routan will apparently resume production in summer 2013. But the big question is why Volkswagen will have halted production of the Chrysler-based minivan for nearly a year?

Automotive News spoke to VW’s Scott Vazin regarding the Routan, with the news outlet reporting

that VW plans “to offer the 2013 model year Routan” without changes and that it will continue to be assembled in Windsor. There is no set schedule for production of the Routan to restart, but it’s “a safe bet” to happen by summer, he said.

While inventory numbers were not available for the Routan, the vehicle hasn’t been produced since July, and sales were down 17 percent year over year. The year-long gap in production is puzzling to say the least, but the missing inventory numbers are a giant “X’ factor in the rationale behind VW’s decision to suspend production. A 7-12 month supply of Routans is unlikely, but if demand is so poor as to suspend production for that long, why bother carrying on with the vehicle? Only 8,882 Routans have been built in 2012, a 38 percent drop compared to 2011. Manufacturing professionals in the commentariat – we know you’re out there – please feel free to chime in with your expertise.

Derek Kreindler
Derek Kreindler

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  • David C. Holzman David C. Holzman on Dec 18, 2012

    Kill the damn thing now!

  • Austin Greene Austin Greene on Dec 18, 2012

    About a year ago my wife was mini-van curious so I wanted to test drive one. I went three times to the dealer - Myers Volkswagen - and they would only let me drive it if I gave them a $2K deposit. Worst treatment I've ever had at a dealership in my 25 years of new car ownership.

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    • SCE to AUX SCE to AUX on Dec 18, 2012

      I've never heard of paying a deposit for the privilege of a test drive. No way I'd ever buy from such a dealer. That practice should be outlawed.

  • El scotto El scotto on Dec 18, 2012

    What happened to VW's Eurovan? Couldn't meet US safety specs? VW kinda forgot about it? What's the deal?

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    • Luke42 Luke42 on Dec 19, 2012

      @gslippy: it's true. Where I work (midwestern dot-com in a college town), blinged out minivans are the luxury vehicle of choice. They're practical, comfortable, and perceived as more respectable than ostentatious. The only BMW in the lot was owned by a 20-something contractor who worked here for a while. There are some more typical enthusiast rides in the parking lot. This is from a crew that can choose to drive whatever they like. It's just that most would rather put their resources toward their kids - but will spend a little extra when they can have it both ways. Culture is a funny thing! More subtle and more powerful than I used to think.

  • Jpolicke Jpolicke on Dec 19, 2012

    Could this be part of the ongoing feud between Marchionne & Piech? I wonder if Chrysler will give you the $1000 "VW conquest bonus" if you trade in a Routan for a Caravan.

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