Report: Volkswagen Routan might not be back for an encore

Filed under: Minivan/Van, Volkswagen, Earnings/Financials, Rumormill

Volkswagen Routan – Click above for high-res image gallery

“No decisions have been made regarding the Routan.” This according to a source from Volkswagen. Unsurprisingly, the re-branded Chrysler minivan is rumored to be receiving less-than-enthusiastic support from Volkswagen’s current management, and the ambivalence might spell doom for the Routan. Volkswagen’s sales are down, though it’s not necessarily the Routan’s fault. The people mover has a consistent four percent of the minivan market and Volkswagen thinks that can be grown.

For now, Volkswagen’s concentrating on launching its latest Jetta and building a factory in Tennessee to assemble the majority of its U.S.-market cars. The Phaeton will also be returning to the U.S. market, indicating an intent to foster growth on the top and bottom of its model offerings. Volkswagen has set a goal for itself of tripling U.S. sales numbers, and the Routan puts the brand in a segment it would not otherwise be in here in the U.S., though its small market share may not make it worth the effort.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Volkswagen Routan