2012 VW Routan SE

Volkswagen's longstanding success in the United States is due in part to its enthusiastic fan base. The largest VW in the family, however, probably doesn't excite the Vee-Dub faithful all that much. The reason is simple: the Routan isn't a Volkswagen. VW's marketing may promise German engineering, but that's more than a little far-fetched. In fact, the Routan is really a Chrysler Town & Country with slightly different front and rear styling, a retuned suspension, and a few interior upgrades. It's even built by Chrysler in a Chrysler factory. Unfortunately, one of the Town & Country's coolest features--the Stow 'n Go second-row seats that fold into the floor--isn't available on the Routan. Last year, the Town & Country received a major makeover--and so did the Routan. The core of that change was a new 3.6-liter V-6 that replaced two aging V-6 engines. Power climbed to a very impressive 283 hp with no negative effect on fuel economy. The suspension and the chassis were also updated, improving the ride, handling, and steering. Unfortunately, the six-speed automatic is still not world-class. It is often hesitant to downshift and uncertain of which gear to choose. With a taut suspension and a nice interior, the Routan is a decent minivan, but it's not a true Volkswagen.