2012 Volkswagen Routan
Should You Buy a 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
The 2012 Volkswagen Routan is a versatile minivan designed for families seeking comfort and practicality. With a robust 3.6L V6 engine producing 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, it offers a smooth driving experience, especially for daily commutes and family road trips. The Routan features a spacious interior with seating for seven, making it an excellent choice for larger families or those who frequently transport groups. Its front-wheel-drive system and 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission provide a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, achieving a combined MPG of 20.0, which is respectable for its class.
However, potential buyers should be aware of some reliability concerns. The NHTSA has recorded a total of 115 complaints, with the majority related to the electrical system, particularly around the 60,000 to 120,000-mile mark. While the Routan boasts a strong reliability score of 97.5 out of 100, the concentration of complaints in specific areas warrants attention. Overall, the Routan is a solid choice for families, but prospective buyers should consider the reported issues when making their decision.
The 2012 Volkswagen Routan is best suited for families or individuals who prioritize space, comfort, and practicality in their daily transportation needs.
Strengths
- +Spacious interior with seating for seven
- +Strong V6 engine performance
- +Good fuel efficiency for a minivan
- +High reliability score of 97.5/100
- +Flexible fuel options (unleaded/E85)
Weaknesses
- -Concentration of electrical system complaints
- -Potential reliability concerns at higher mileage
- -Limited availability of parts due to age
- -Perceived as less stylish compared to competitors
- -Higher MSRP compared to similar models
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 2012 Volkswagen Routan has a total of 115 complaints reported to the NHTSA, with the most significant issues arising from the electrical system, engine, and steering components. While there are no fire incidents reported, there have been three injuries linked to the vehicle. The electrical system has shown patterns of issues particularly between 60,000-80,000 miles and again at 100,000-120,000 miles. No significant NHTSA complaints on record regarding safety-related defects.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 3.6 L
- Cylinders
- V6
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drive Type
- FWD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 20
- Fuel Type
- Regular Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- 202.4 in
- Width
- 76.8 in
- Height
- 68.9 in
- Wheelbase
- 121.3 in
- Curb Weight
- 4,495 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- –
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –