2012 Volkswagen Routan
Fuel Economy Overview
The 2012 Volkswagen Routan achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG in combined city and highway driving, with 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. Powered by a 3.6L 6-cylinder engine paired with a automatic 6-spd, this minivan - 2wd features Front-Wheel Drive drive.
In terms of environmental impact, the 2012 Routan produces approximately 444 grams of CO2 per mile. This figure is measured under standardized EPA test conditions and represents tailpipe emissions only. For context, the average new vehicle sold in the United States produces approximately 400 grams of CO2 per mile, meaning this Routan has higher-than-average emissions in this regard.
The estimated annual fuel cost for this vehicle is $3,000, based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and current national average fuel prices. Compared to the average new vehicle, you would save $4,250 over a 5-year period. This calculation accounts for differences in fuel consumption efficiency and provides a practical measure of long-term ownership costs attributable to fuel economy.
Energy DNA
Green Scorecard
Personalized Commute CalculatorEPA defaults to 55% City / 45% Hwy
Adjust the slider to match your daily driving habits. City driving involves stop-and-go traffic under 45mph, while highway driving represents sustained speeds over 55mph.
The Brick Effect: Highway Speed Penalty
EPA highway tests average roughly 48 mph. Driving at 75 mph increases aerodynamic drag exponentially. Because the Minivan - 2WD has a large frontal area, expect your real-world highway fuel economy to drop by up to 25% at high speeds.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Recall Intelligence
VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 ROUTAN VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 15, 2011, THROUGH NOVEMBER 21, 2011. SOME VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH RIGHT REAR HUB AND BEARING ASSEMBLIES THAT WERE NOT FULLY MACHINED.
Consequence & Remedy
Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN A DECREASE IN DURABILITY, WHICH MAY LEAD TO WHEEL SEPARATION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: VOLKSWAGEN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE RIGHT REAR HUB AND BEARING ASSEMBLY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 20, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.
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Looking for comprehensive historical data?
NHTSA FARS (Fatal Crash History) and broader generational safety trends are aggregated at the model level rather than by specific engine configurations. View the complete historical data profile for all Volkswagen Routan configurations.
Similar 2012 Minivan - 2WD Alternatives
2012 Chrysler Town and Country
3.6L 6-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2012 Dodge Grand Caravan
3.6L 6-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2012 Ram C/V Cargo Van
3.6L 6-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2012 Honda Odyssey
3.5L 6-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2012 Kia Sedona
3.5L 6-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
2012 Nissan Quest
3.5L 6-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Cost Analysis
Based on 15,000 miles/year and current fuel prices.
Efficiency Breakdown
Estimated Lifetime Carbon Footprint
(Based on 200,000 miles driven)