Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Susan, Boston — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 01:51:47 GMT

I absolutely love these commercials, they are hilarious! I can't stand VW as a brand and the talking Bug ads drive me batty but these particular VW commercials, even the one with Brooke Shields talking to the black Bug, I laugh every time. Brooke Shields makes the ads so funny - who knew?

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

John Schaefer, Burton, MI — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 07:57:18 GMT

Ummm...anybody with any awareness of automobiles knows that the Routan is a Chrysler minivan, designed in the Detroit area and assembled in Canada from parts produced mostly in Michigan, Ontario and the surrounding Midwest area.

The VW ad agency might more honestly have said "The only real VW associations of this minivan are the nose badge and VW dealers selling it. But heck, we only need a minivan in the US/Canadian market, so why not just buy one and rebadge it? Plus, when we committed to this decision Chrysler was still owned by Mercedes and much more German managed. So please buy our minivans."

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Joel, Harrisburg, PA — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:09:53 GMT

This commercial annoys the heck out of me. Then again maybe that's because it goes perfectly with VW's smug nature. In case anyone missed it, the Routan is basically a rebadged Dodge Caravan... only things VW are a 'german engineered' suspension (who need this on a full minivan... planning taking the kids and dog onto the race track?) and some prettied up amenities... but they don't tell you that, just that it's 'german engineered.' The only reason an American should want to buy a Routan over a Caravan is to pay more for a VW badge, and to send more of their money to Germany rather than Detroit... at least other VW models are uniquely VW. Sorry, had to gripe.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Trent, Owensboro, KY — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:13:46 GMT

I love this ad, but this car is, in fact, not German-engineered. It's a rebadged Chrysler Town and Country. That's just a technicality, though.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Richard, Orem, UT — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 13:47:21 GMT

Brooke Shields is a class act: a beautiful woman who doesn't take herself too seriously. I don't know if this ad campaign will sell cars, but it sure sells me on Brooke Shields.

I love how these ads take shots at celebrity activism and other silly things. Hopefully, we'll see the real message of these ads and require more intelligence from the next pretty face to promote a cause.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Someone who knows more than you — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 14:50:22 GMT

Jeez Joel, don't you always gripe? You haven't changed a bit.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Chris Allentown, PA — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 15:22:24 GMT

Actually it is a bit more then just the suspension, they reworked the whole drivetrain and brakes so it wasn't as sloppy as most domestics are.

Granted it still is a a Chrysler V6 & transmission but at least VW got to tinker with it.

It's basically the Minivan for those not wanting the same stigma that follows all the ones currently available today. Big, lumpy , wagons whose body roll in turns rivals that of a banking 747.

Granted I'll never buy one even though I own other VW's mostly because the least they could have done IMO was use a VW drivetrain.

VW has always been great at commercials though, can't see them stopping anytime short.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Stephanie Webb, Austin, Texas — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 15:38:36 GMT

This ad is absolutely right. Having kids doesn't have to be as expensive as everyone makes it. Maybe if you focused just on clothing your children, feeding them, and making sure they knew how to entertain themselves, they (and you) wouldn't get into ridiculous debt when they got older, having been trained that they "deserve" and "need" so much stuff. My family of four never owned a minivan, I never will, and there are plenty of families of four (and more) who "survive" without a minivan.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Bruce, Fort Worth, TX — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:29:50 GMT

The decision to have a child is selfish and materialistic? What planet are you from? If you do it right it is the complete opposite of this - and gives you the greatest reward.
BTW Mrs. Webb- a minivan is simply a personal preference, not a life choice. If you don't want a minivan, fine. My family of 6 required it at one time and it served the need admirably.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Jorge Mesiter — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:50:07 GMT

Actually the Chrysler mini-van platform has been German engineered in numerous ways including the suspension, brakes, interior and some sheet metal. In addition VW's sales revenues pay the salaries of VWoA employees who live and work in America, so that's a good thing for the U.S. economy.

VWoA and VW Ag have invested heavily in the U.S. in the past and in addition to the new VWoA corporate offices that just opened in Herndon, VA, VW of Germany is building a new VW production factory in Chattanooga, TN to produce U.S. specific models. This means more jobs for Americans and German engineered, made-in-America products. With the Chrysler mini-van being best in class for years, it's no disgrace to use this platform as the basis for a North American VW Van. There is a place for mini-vans in society and they exist worldwide because of their practical convenience.

That being said, I have yet to understand who the core customer is for VW in the U.S. The majority of people I see driving VWs are college or young family type folks. Most of VWoA ads in recent years leave me cold. Cute is fine if it makes a specific purchasing argument, but most auto advertising that I see misses the mark by a country mile. Being hip and cool in ads doesn't always move the metal on main street. Being "creative" in ads may will you awards but it can undermine product sales.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Doug Indianapolis, Indiana — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:52:09 GMT

It took me a while to get it, but I thought these were funny ads afterall. VW has come up with good, humorus ads that make you think a little, rather than try to make you drool over the car.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Scott (Ft. Lauderdale) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:25:36 GMT

Oh my god, the article was basically about Brook Shields and her dead pan style in the ads. The lot of you discussing whether this car is a VW or not, need to go to Car and Driver to do your griping.

You people are idiots. Comment on Brooks Shields and the style of the ad not the actual vehicle. Oh my god how stupid can people be!?!

I think this is the funniest ad on TV at the moment. Brooks Shields just make me laugh my ass off. She has dead pan down to a science.

Way to go Brook and the agency that came up with this.

The rest of you need to get a life.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Emmy, PA — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:32:41 GMT

Hmm, I took my caravan up a bank and back down again without flipping it. Suspension matters.

I wasn't driving the dog to the racetrack - just trying to get home on an icy road.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Sara, Oklahoma City, OK — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:12:07 GMT

I love the ad; Brooke Shields makes it hilarious. I love that she's willing to poke at her fellow stars and their "activist" tendencies. I'd never buy a VW simply because their repair and maintenance costs are ridiculous -- but I love the ad!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 18:33:08 GMT

"...a subtle jab the selfishness and materialism that sometimes accompanies a decision to have children..."

Damn them for not being noble enough to abort those babies!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Lisa French Smith, Northport, NY — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:00:59 GMT

It's a joke...and it gets your attention. It doesn't matter whether it's good or bad attention...it gets attention. That's advertising. VW would LOVE you to get upset about the ad so you'll be talking about them. Either way - it's a win because anyone thinking about buying a minivan will now know that VW also offers minivans.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Paul, Romulus, MI — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:32:53 GMT

Attention doesn't necessarily equal sales, which is what advertising is suppose to generate. While Brooke Shields is certainly attractive, the ad isn't suppose to be about her, it's suppose to generate interest in VW's van. She's just the eye-candy to stimulate male hormones and fantasies. From the Brooke fanboy comments above, it would appear that she succeeds while the ad does not? No sale today VW. <LOL>

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Mark Brooks Cookville Texas — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 22:29:05 GMT

Good luck Brooke. With gas prices as high as they
are, you would do better by selling ketchup ice cream.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

An educated consumer — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 23:34:35 GMT

Anyone with a clue doesnt buy a minivan, only stupid soccer moms and idiots buy them.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

B. Obama, Washington D.C. — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 02:22:17 GMT

Palin my ass -

Brooke Shields is beautiful and smart and everyone is in love with her - Get Biden on the phone, he's fired.

Friends, meet your new Vice President.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Melissa, Peoria, AZ — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 05:29:51 GMT

Having children is sometimes selfish and materialistic? Wow...I'm so selfish to have had a child so that I could give up any spare moment I ever had for myself to cleaning up dirty dipers and picking cheerios up off the carpet. Oh...and I suppose giving up pedicures, upscale beauty products and days at the spa so that I could purchase diapers, food and clothing really is after all a sign of true materialism. That comment makes no sense to me.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Mead — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 05:49:56 GMT

Brooke Shields is a class act. She is not only beautiful but she doesn't take herself too seriously. The adds are refreshing. Thanks VW.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Big Ace, Alexandria, VA — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 10:27:28 GMT

Honda Odyssey sells itself. Don't need a pretty face. And Oh, what about it's quality.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Dave Sutton San Francisco, CA — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 10:38:39 GMT

Wow. So you're telling me that "assembling" a vehicle in the USA brings in the same money as design, engineering, marketing, and producing them. I think not. The Toyota,s Honda's Nissans, and so forth are assembled in America using mostly Japanese engineering, design, and parts, from Japan. They, in no way, add as much as the the domestic Big Three add when a vehicle is produced by them. Remember this also. All of the money that the imports make, filters back to Japan to help thier economy, send thier children to school, pay for thier infastructure. I, for one, am tired of sending my money to Asia. I look for American branded and produced items. The VW minivan is nothing but a Chrysler Town and COuntry with different tail lamps and front facia. Why spend money in a VW dealership?

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Dobson, Bloomington IN — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 15:38:17 GMT

Well, since you are off the subject of the commercial Dave, it is difficult to buy american when reliability isn't up to par with the majority of Japan's offerings. At least the US is still involved in the manufacturing process of Japan automobiles who is offering employment to our nation. Japan is actually helping to give back to a nation that supports their engineering.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

je, LA, CA — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 16:17:38 GMT

There is no such thing as all USA cars. Vehicles are conceived, designed and sourced all over the globe regardless of brand. Cars from Asia use American suppliers and American staffed design centers all over the US. Supposedly Detroit made cars utilize design centers in Europe Asia and Australia.Profits don't filter back, they go directly to the managements and shareholders regardless of nationality.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

mary, portsmouth, nh — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 19:19:43 GMT

Scott from Ft. Lauderdale.....most of these people just don't get it and never will. lol....love the ad...hilarious. Wake up people, its not about the van. lol.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

P. B. Cleveland, tn — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 21:49:39 GMT

how entertainingit is reading everyone's interpretation of this commercial!! its doing just what it was intended to do...attracting attention

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Sammy Perkins, Oxnard, CA — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 22:09:12 GMT

Message to VW: Things have changed. I'll be happy to open my wallet as soon as you offer a Routan with leather, navigation, back-up camera, DVD entertainment, sunroof, and so on for $22k or less.

Don't like that price? What's the matter, don't you understand that 40% off is the new "full price".

Alternatively, just pay me what you are paying Brooke and I'll be happy to buy one of your minivans.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Barry, Boca Raton, FL — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 02:12:18 GMT

Brooke is just as beautiful now as she was 20 years ago. Who says that women don't get better with age?

As for the car; people, it's a mini-van!! If you want to debate the merits of a BMW 550 vs. a Lexus GS, fine...but this is a mini-van!

More Brooke!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Kenn Burdick, Syracuse, NY — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 02:52:44 GMT

Jorge mentioned "best in class", referring to the Chrysler van. Obviously, that class does not include the Toyota and Honda vans, which have been competing for the top dog spot for the past ten years. Chrysler has been adding features and amenities and other bells and whistles in an attempt to grab more buyers on the WOW factor, but they have still failed to address the number one reason why Toyota and Honda are the top dogs...reliability. Sorry, but you can't even use the words Dodge, Chrysler, and reliability in the same sentence...nor Ford either. And now the big American trucks (built Ford tough, right??) have been dethroned by the Toyota Tundra, which is just a plain animal, no bones about it.

Owned American cars for years, got sick and tired of fixing them. We lost the quality and work ethic, and Japan picked it up. And in the end, quality always wins. Until the American big three get that back, the trend is just going to continue.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Jen, Vancouver, WA — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 04:20:01 GMT

I LOVE these commercials. I am a huge VW fan (my first car was a VW). I have kids. I would consider this car for my next van purchase. LOVE IT. Great job, Brooke. You are a funny lady. Kudos, VW. Comedy suits you.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Windsor — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 06:22:28 GMT

well sorry to say this mini-van is German engineered from Mercedes. There are actually differences in the parts that are put into it. I for one as a pero=son whom assembles this van (as well as others put care into all Chrysler/Dodge and now VW) see the huge differences. Hands down a very well put together design, comfort and quality. I for one not a fan of VW as many other of my co-workers actually have ordered one for the looks and differences. No this does not reflect on us as good since WE are still suppose to buy domestic...But as a assembler of these how can many of us not want the better stlye and comfort. This Routan was and is designed by German engineers yet it is built in CANADA with the quality workforce behind them hopefully will prove people wrong that to be German engineered doesn't mean it has to be built in Germany! Same procedures same engineering just built in a different country that's all. Thanls for those whom do purchase or are interested. But it does help our economies (USA and Canada)for this vehicle to be assembled here...Although the profits from this VW are not much to Chrysler's it does help keep the costs lower for such a well built nice Minivan to the America's Markets at a lower cost for the consumer than being built the same way in Germany! Hopefully this helps. I for one am a constant traveller in the USA and everytime I see a person with a Chrysler/Dodge and now a VW mini-van always ask for opinions and hevean forbid stranded/possible issues will fix or recomend what the possible problems maybe. I have fixed many of mini-vans in places I have traveled to (out of warranty or such) just because I for one (as many other co-workers have done) as a builder of these still do what we can for others that may need to be done way after the fact. There are many of us at Chrysler's who help many buyers of these vans after the fact if need be...I hope some of you may have had this experience from one of us Canadian Mini-van builders whom have helped you out for no reason just because WE DO STAND by our products the best we can. I hope someone at least out there can vouche for this...and hopefully I may have been one of these persons whom may have helped you on your way or saved you monies out of warranty for repairs that could be done!
Of course everyone has a personal opinion and we all accept this with due hope to help better what the consumers want/prefer. Best to those whom understand that we do the best we can for you the consumer as best as we can that we know of!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

R M, Upstate NY — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 12:49:43 GMT

I like the " Time to umpimp da auto " adds the best, nothing like watching a fast and furious wannabe car getting smashed.
Even though I've never been a big Brooke fan this add gave me a chuckle.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Abel, Ft. Lauderdale, FL — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 13:42:58 GMT

"...selfishness and materialism that sometimes accompanies a decision to have children." Most parents would die to save their children, yup that's pretty selfish.The writer has absolutely no clue. Selfishness and materialism is more likely to accompany a decision to NOT have children. Yea, that way you don't blow all your money and time on pesky kids. The writer (Allison Linn) must be related to someone to get her idiotic ideas published.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Steve — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:23:44 GMT

The point of the ad is not to debate where the frickin car is made, and is not a swipe at people who have families (hello! who buys mini-vans??). The purpose of an ad is to gather eye-balls. This one gathered mine, and I don't usually watch commercials. I'm not in the market for a mini-van, but I thought this ad was smart, funny, and watchable. Kudos to Ms. Shields.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Sharon (Horner, WV) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:37:30 GMT

I don't particularly like or dislike these VW commercials (though I do hate the ones with the talking VW), but at least I know what they're trying to sell. So many of those car commercials have really catchy tunes, flashy, etc, but when it's over I have no idea what car they were trying to sell because I was either listening to the music or watching the pictures of something else flash across the screen. It usually is better for the public to know what you're actually trying to sell, rather than trying to identify the background music!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Dad, Fort Worth, Texas — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 20:33:52 GMT

Brooke is beautiful and mini vans rock.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Doug Wilson, Jacksonville, FL — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 23:46:04 GMT

"...selfishness and materialism that sometimes accompanies a decision to have children." Geez people, she said SOMETIMES, which is absolutely a true statement. To believe that this is incorrect requires you to believe that not a single person has ever used the birth of their child as a way to draw attention to themselves or a way to justify unnecessary spending. Sadly, it does happen sometimes.

The writer doesn't justify such behavior, and she doesn't indicate that it even happens very often. She certainly isn't criticizing your parenting skills. She only states that it sometimes happens, and those people deserve a bit of the criticisim that this ad directs at THEM.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

DM — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:51:53 GMT

Um, I chose not to have children because I didn't think I'd be a good parent, not because I'm selfish.

While I don't agree with the writer's remark, I think swiping at the childless is just as misguided.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Chrysler Minivan Fan, southwest Ohio — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:21:30 GMT

Yeah, who wants a Chrysler T&C anyway? I just got mine back from the shop after paying a $2,000 bill. Did I mention it's not even ten years old yet? That this is the first real money spent on it? That it has 222,238 miles? There isn't a squeak or rattle in it? That it rides like a dream? Has a killer stereo? Hung with a Corvette (whose driver, admittedly, probably doesn't know how to drive the thing) on a sharp curve on a local Interstate? Or that it still looks great inside and out? It does use a little oil, though. It's down almost a pint and it was changed only 4,980 miles ago. Tsk, Tsk. What a bummer.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Jeaux, Defiance, Ohio — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:38:25 GMT

The "selfish" comment was part of the joke people. Brooke was "acting" the part of a celebrity who thinks that people want a mini-van so badly that they will go to the extreme and have a baby just so they can justify the purchase. Geesz, why can't you see the humor in that? It is sarcasm, not a fact. The writter doesn't actually believe the statement. Do we need web pages to explain all TV ads?

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

JM, Wisconsin — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 04:11:54 GMT

Yeah, this was a pretty weird ad. I'd put it right up there with AT&T's "milky minutes" spot.

It seems to me though that most people are missing the other angle to this story: That VW saw fit to make Brooke Shields the star of their ad campaign in the first place, which pretty much cements her latest comeback as a big-name actress. I suppose now it's just a matter of time before the rights holders to her early films go into cash-in mode and dust them off for re-issue. The 'Blu-Ray' Lagoon, anyone?

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Lord Farquar — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 16:52:15 GMT

To everyone that enjoys bad mouthing domestic vehicles in favor of imports: your arguements are based on outdated information and your own vindictiveness. You can't forgive mistakes made years ago. You are unwilling to admit that they've done everything in their power (with their shrinking resources) to correct their problems and offer WORLD CLASS products. Ford F150 is THE MOST RELIABLE VEHICLE in its class, not an import. ALL 2009 Fords have EQUAL or BETTER fuel economy ratings than their import competitors. Nissan has built such a lame duck pickup, that they are giving up building their own. The new Nissan will be, get this, a DODGE. Dodge is building such world class products, that both VW and Nissan are willing to put their nameplates on them. WOW, what an American pile of junk huh? The year is 2008 folks not 1971, not 1982, not 1993. The days where you can be smug knowing that your anti-American sentiments can't be effectively argued against are over. Not that you even care if you're right. You simply want to rail against US car companies.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

sdnative1964 — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 01:00:26 GMT

I concur with Lord Farquar. I have a 2001 F-150, with a touch over 70K mikes. The only un-scheduled maintenance I've had done is replacement of a coil pack, $150 for parts and labor, oh and I just had a tail light burn out. That should be $2.50 and I can easliy change it myself. My truck is 7 years old and still has the original battery, starter, alternator, etc. All parts you would expect to have replaced by now but it's still going strong. For the Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra followers, unless you regularly tow 10,000+ lbs you do NOT need a 350 CI motor. My 4.6L small V-8 is plenty fine for the occasional home depot trip or run to the local dump, and I average 17-18 MPG (80% city driving) vs their 15 MPG. I've been in a Titan and my F-150 rides much better. If you stay away from the Lariat, Harley and Lightning models a nicely equipped F-150 XLT can be had for less $20K if you are a savvy shopper. Try touching the Nissan or Toyota for that price. Bottom line is that U.S designed/made vehicles are indeed as good as the imports, and if we could get the baby-boomers to lose their 70s/80s mentalities they might actually figure that out.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Will, stationed (involuntarily) in Georgia — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 18:08:45 GMT

Why is it that I have ALWAYS loved VW ads (especially the "unpimp ze auto" ads)
BUT have NEVER wanted to buy a VW??

Might want to focus on what buying a VW can do for me besides make me smile...

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Your mom, my mom, their moms — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 19:11:04 GMT

"...selfishness and materialism that sometimes accompanies a decision to have children."

Can someone please explain how "selfish" needs in deciding to have children for the "materialistic" aspect translates into spending a total of 21 hours in PAINFUL labor, followed by living your life around diapers, breastfeeding, late nights, sleepless nights, college funds, soccer/baseball hours and money, PTA, for your kids? Yeah. That's super selfish.

Darn those people. Funny ad, by the way. Brooke Shields is one hilarious woman. Gotta buy me that minivan.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

NeedToCleanMyRoom, Tacoma, WA — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 19:36:05 GMT

Having children, you don't love...just to own a particular car or Van, is "Wrong"...
I can understand having kids, if you decide you don't want to say..throw away old clothes that are too small, because if you save them..eventually your kids will be big enough to wear them. THAT's environmentally friendly...And I support that.
But, don't have kids to own a minivan.
Also...don't feed cats dog food because that can cause them to become "confused". There is ..as yet, no approved "psychiatric drugs" for Cats...suffering "Dog/Cat Identity Syndrom"....So, let's all protect our Cats!....Sorry Tom Cruise, but,
"Healthy Cats Rule!"...And I support that as well!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Macy, Manchester CT — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 21:24:46 GMT

OK, people...Asian vehicles in general are very well designed, as are their ad campaigns and pricing strategies.

Let me just say that as an active and educated consumer, I WILL NEVER BUY AN "ASIAN" AUTO. At least, not until certain countries stop illegal trade practices, predatory pricing, dumping, you name it. I don't care if these are the best cars and vans on earth...to me, it is unpatriotic to spend your money on a vehicle from any country that does not "play fair" and abide by international trade agreements! Not that there is anything wrong intrinsically with wanting the car that you want!

It's just that all of the profits go overseas, and not to our own auto industry right here in the US of A. Or they go to a nation that may be an ally of ours, instead of one working subtly against our collective best interests.

And oh yeah, I own a Saturn Vue. It's my second Saturn, and I plan on driving it into the ground like I did the first one! Too bad GM seems to be going toes up...hopefully their Saturn division will be able to spin off on their own hook again. I love their product offerings, which incidentally, are a majority made of US components!!!!!!!!!!!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Steve B., Alabama — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 23:51:14 GMT

AS one wrote, their are no morev truly "American" cars made anymore.Not engineered, designed,and built in the U.S., using parts made here, at least none that I would buy.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Town Crier — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:11:39 GMT

Wow. it must be the fact that i am young and have no children that i actually understand this comment. I have not seen this commercial and probably will never own a VW even though i like them, they smell too much like crayons.

ANYWAYS most of you who are copying and pasting this statement are missing the point...and a few extra words in front of it...

>>>>"parody of her fellow actors' humanitarian efforts"<<< and a subtle jab the selfishness and materialism that sometimes accompanies a decision to have children."

HELLO does brangelina ring a bell? That statement is clearly aimed at the type of >celebrities< that adopt endless amounts of children from all over the world.

SO all of the angry moms need to CHILL OUT it wasn't aimed at you, no one says YOU are selfish and materialistic. But obviously while you are giving every second to your children and "cleaning cheerios up off the carpet" and being worlds number one mommy you somehow find time to get online and complain about an article that's NOT EVEN ABOUT YOU.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Amanda, Arizona — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 14:28:22 GMT

This commercial proves how un-funny she is.....

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Salazar Slytherin, Hogwarts, GB — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 18:01:35 GMT

Well here come the sickengly nationalist people parading how they foolishly won't buy an Asian or European car. Do you know how unreliable and crappy American cars are, not to mention only lasts 2 years? I bet you people never even left the country, are you so proud of it now? The rest of the world is infuriated at you goons, and the best you can do is ponder if a VW van is in fact a bloody Chrysler? LMAO.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Paul J. Orlandi (the Haggard Old man) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 22:54:07 GMT

Sometimes the commercials are more entertaining than the shows in which they are placed; Gal in white "Carnaby Street" (am I dating myself here?)outfit pointing at the ginourmous pro-stock style hood scoop on the "rice burner" asks "What does that do?" - "Mailbu's Most Wanted" replies "It sucks air into the engine" gal replies "Ya, it sucks". Subliminal social commentary? Maybe, but who cares?

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

James Spiker — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 20:48:52 GMT

Crispin continues to drop the VW ball at every turn.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Drew D., Boise, ID — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 17:56:54 GMT

Zowie, you guys are really uptight! It's a car commercial - all it's doing is getting word of the brand out. Lighten up a little!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

sdnative1964, san diego, ca — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 19:38:03 GMT

Believe it or not, USA can design and build cars, trucks and SUV's of comparable quality to any nation in the world. The problem here lies with production costs. When you have to pay the same idiot $20/hour to spin the same lug nut he's been putting on for the last 20 years (due to his/her own lack of ambition to gain qualifications and accredidations to advance) because of his seniorty in the UAW and have to pay his medical, unemployment, disabiltiy, and FICA insurance, effectively doubling the employers's cost to have him on the job. How can you possibly expect to be competitive in the global economy where Asians will will do the same job for less than 10% of the daily wage w/out benefits? All of a sudden shipping costs become negligible as a business expense. If corporate America (especially in the auto industry)adopts a "move up ot move out" philosphy it will actually create jobs becuase it creates turn over in the work force and a better more motivated work force. It's called incentive to get better or get fired.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Justin, Newark, NJ — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:03:10 GMT

Am I the only one that finds this ad disturbing? The last time the people's car, german engineering, and reproduction were linked together, 8 million people died. I also don't like a person who suffered from postpartum depression being flip about any link between reproduction and material possessions.

The actual thrust isn't so objectionable, it's simply objectionable that VW and Brooke Shields would use it. Not much offends me, I am really surprised to hear that these ads are seen so positively.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Randall K, St. Louis MO — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 17:20:28 GMT

I hate these ads, I think they are creepy and weird.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Sinata — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 18:08:21 GMT

"a subtle jab the selfishness and materialism that sometimes accompanies a decision to have children."

Notice the sometimes, dumbnuts.
Like similar to a friend I had. She had a child despite how she could not afford her own house.
Anyhow, Brook Shields is wonderful on the ads.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Faith Heart — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 04:01:28 GMT

"Your mom, my mom, their moms" WROTE: Can someone please explain how "selfish" needs in deciding to have children for the "materialistic" aspect translates into spending a total of 21 hours in PAINFUL labor, (SNIPPED) Yeah. That's super selfish. (end quote)

I think people CHOOSE to have children because THEY want to...so in a way, it IS all about self - yourself and YOUR desire, your choice to have children...that you have to do a heck of a lot for them when they arrive is not the issue (who cares how long YOUR labor was? answer=no one but you-no offence, but really...) Be greatful you were able to HAVE children, many people struggle with fertility problems and would gladly, and happily endure much more than 21 hours of labor to have a child. I think basically if people make a choice to do something, like having children because they want to, then it is a "selfish" choice. I don't think that is a bad thing, I think it is quite natural given human biology made to reproduce.
I most certainly don't think people who choose not to have children are more selfish than those who choose to have children.

I think the as is a smidge amusing, I like Brooke Shields.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Caleb Gerreto — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 11:51:59 GMT

I had a Crappy Honda Minivan. The transmission went out on it twice before the 30k mile mark. Yeah those Asians sure build reliability. You couldn't give me another overrated Japanese brand vehicle. I won't even ride in one anymore.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Dan, Ft. Worth, TX — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 13:29:03 GMT

To Scott (Ft. Lauderdale): Well said.

Some folks deliberately miss the point.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

RotBaron Nashville TN — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 17:33:54 GMT

I love VW commercials. I had a 1958 VW microbus in 1967. I wish I had it back with Brooke Shields in the back so we could play "make a baby game".

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Rich, LA, CA — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 21:01:24 GMT

I have to agree that the people commenting on the auto itself (import v. domestic) are missing the point a bit.

But these spots bug me every time I see them. The fact is that the car isn't German engineered, it is German TWEAKED. Aside from status, I have to think that people buy European-brand cars for the way they handle and the attention to detail. I'll never believe that this car could be as good as one engineered from the ground up by VW.

No matter what you think about Brooke or the Routan (don't even get me started on the name), you have to admit that the ad is disingenuous. With the Rabbit name change and now this, one must wonder what's gone wrong with VW's marketing!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

M.FOWLER - ROCKFORD ILL. — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 02:38:51 GMT

I take offense at the "PUTTING A BABY IN YOUR BELLY FOR GERMAN ENGINEERS" REMINDS ME OF THE NAZIS IN WWII. NOT FUNNY!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Jim, Bean Station ,Tn — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 03:55:06 GMT

God people it a commercial for petes sake, which is not exactly logical or even factional, its meant to sell a car not make any kind of statement.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Jamie Tampa, FL — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:20:16 GMT

I think its halarious!! Reminds us not to take things so seriously, and of course the people who can't take humor wouldn't enjoy this commercial, so stop complaining its a commercial! Brooke Sheilds is great!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

John, Kansas — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 20:30:35 GMT

VW is clearly turning away from the young, hip market that brought them success in the past few decades by turning to an old, skanky has-been like Brooke Shields.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Douglas , NJ — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 23:35:48 GMT

Cute add but will it realy make you want to buy a rebadged dodge? Same exact powertrain, stiffer ride is all. Best part is you can pay quite a bit more mone for it and get a much shorter warranty than the same thing in a Chrysler!!!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Jeff Butterfield — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 01:23:02 GMT

Is nobody else discomforted by the idea of having babies just to support German engineering. Wasn't Hitler trying to "engineer" an entire race? I really find the series of commercials to be terribly insensitive and freakish.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Kat C. Sarasota, Florida — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:48:26 GMT

Sorry, but these commercials for VW with Brooke Shields, are NOT funny at all.
They are quite possibly the most annoying series of commercials airing currently.
The way Brooke talks very snidely to the parents, ignores every word they say, tells them they are in denial etc etc, is seriously off putting, it's rude.

If VW was targeting the very rude, snobby, and greedy segment of the population, they succeeded, but the rest of us, can't stand these commercials and either change the channel the second they start, or leave the room to use the bathroom.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Paul V. Battaglia — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 17:39:03 GMT

I have seen this ad a number of times ever since it was first showcased. In fact, I bookmarked the page and have played it daily to try and appreciate all the effort it took to produce.

Brooke Shields remains the focal point of the commercial, unfortunately, with here alluring attire and the manner in which she sashays about in clothing that draws your attention to her body and not her outerware, let alone the car. She is a bit too serious and militant against the other people in the ad and they seem exasperated with her matter-of-fact delivery that leaves no room for discussion. I do not see how this could possibly be effective for VW, but I am expecting to suddenly "see" more of Brooke in the near future. Is she about to make a comeback of sorts as this ad would be the perfect springboard for her? Good luck to her, but she never impressed me very much, though I will say that she has always been real and frank and gone through a lot of hard luck in life.

The commercial is much too colourless and focuses on Brooke intensely.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

WF - TO, CA, — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 06:50:16 GMT

Does anyone get images of Hitler when we are told about German engineering of kids????

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 04:36:49 GMT

I have a fertility problem. I guess I'll just have to drive a Lotus Elise or a Corvette.

Poor me. :)

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

mike — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 15:31:56 GMT

funny ad

awful cars

does anyone who research customer satisfaction actually by a VW ????

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Constant Reader, Lake Mary, Florida — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 05:34:12 GMT

You guys are missing something kind of important. A short time ago, there was an effort by a German car company (probably VW) to push ads that stressed 'German in da house' in a heavy Germanic accent. Apparently this didn't sell well. So now they have a beautiful American woman talking about how other women are getting pregnant just to get German engineering. Why is this not funny? For those of you of short memories (or extreme youth): one of the truly frightening efforts during WW II, by the German Reich, was an effort to create a 'superman'. There was a full scale process underway to 'breed' a 'pure' Aryan person. So, for those who remember that era, this commercial sends chills down the spine. Whoever got Brooke Shields this commercial is not doing her a favor.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

sick of the foolish masses allowing themselves to be brainwashed. — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 14:45:26 GMT

I despise this add campaign with all my soul. Women on this planet need to wake up. When we tolerate and laugh at sarcastic jokes like this it belittles our case for being treated equally. Because women and babies always go together - and NO THEY DON'T. My gender does not automatically give me a "maternal" instinct. We cannot advance to equality until we stop letting this garbage tell us that women = babies. This commercial makes me want to smash my television. Television has not been worth watching lately, and this doesn't make it better.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Mazda Man! — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 15:37:35 GMT

Brooke Shields is a plastic amazon way past her prime! VW sucks and all the people that own them are stuck on themselves. What's the difference between a VW and a porcupine? The porcupine has pricks on the outside!

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Michael, Los Angeles CA — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 23:08:15 GMT

I think these adds are historically disturbing. If I'm bludgeoned with German engineering, pregnancy, a single voice dictating behavior on another I think of Nazi Germany. VW is selling pregnancy as the ends to owning a car. I'm waiting for the next pregnant woman to be carrying twins.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Bill the Scribe, OK — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 04:17:56 GMT

Ah, well all children breathe air thus expelling carbon dioxide which depletes the ozone layer and explains the global warming thing...Brooke is just saving the world (buy a Fiat).

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Ed Neinabor — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 04:37:25 GMT

Some of you are taking this ad far too seriously. It's a satirical look at why people buy minivans. Beautiful, exquisite Brooke is saying that some people have children just to buy a minivan. GET IT?
Maybe not.....

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

J Jones, Dallas, TX — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:30:10 GMT

Dear TV and cable networks,

I hate this commercial. I really hate this commercial. It's elitist and not funny in the least. When it comes on the air, I change the channel. Please let this campaign die the death it deserves.

Dear VW,

I actually like the Routan. However, since my policy is to boycott products with bad commercials, I hope I'm not ready to buy my upcoming minivan/SUV before you put this campaign out of my misery.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Matt, College Park, MD — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:11:02 GMT

I love Brooke Shields. I didn't always. But her talent for deadpan humor has won me over completely.

And this ad campaign makes me want to shop for a Routan with her...for all the wrong reasons :)

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Heather, RI — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:01:41 GMT

We bought our Toyota Sienna in 2001 when our Buick 4-door sedan finally died. At the time, SUVs were all the rage, but the minivans had better gas milage and safety records. In fact, we ended up buying the Toyota over a US brand because the US Manufacturers had STILL (at that time anyway) not made all the safety features standard. Toyota Sienna and Honda Odessey had the best crash test ratings - the US minivans didn't come close. Also, after hurting my back delivering my son, the "step in" height for getting the baby carrier in the car was a HUGE reason not to get another station wagon or sedan (which we did compare). In our case, the minivan made more sense from a safety, gas milage, and ergonomic perspective; and we expected we would make full use of the cargo capacity as our children grew (and we do - I can't imagine fitting all the stuff in the trunk of a sedan). I would have preferred to buy American back in 2001, but not at the expense of safety and mileage. American manufactures need to start leading the way on this and not trying to fight safety and mileage standards as they have so often in the past. The Toyota is till running strong, and we will run it into the ground as we did with our previous autos. When that day finally comes, we hope US Manufacturers have a safe, efficient, green alternative available for us.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Woot! Seattle, WA — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 16:13:33 GMT

Who doesn't love Brooke Shields. And for those of you who took this opportunity to lament the quality of American cars, support your views on abortion, or to whine about materialism, stuff it. Can't you just enjoy life for a moment?

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Southern Baby Boomer, Nashville, TN — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:48:23 GMT

The first time I heard this commercial, I couldn't believe that anyone would put references to "German Engineering" and "having babies" in their own commercial. Doesn't anyone remember the Nazis? I still can't believe there has been no backlash about that association -- probably another example of the quality of education in the US for the last 25 years.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Southern Baby Boomer, Nashville, TN — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:55:43 GMT

After posting then trying to re-scroll to the bottom I discovered that I had not read through to the bottom in the first place. Several others had noted the Nazi-like aspect. But I still wonder if everyone else who had noted that is older than 55 like me.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Robert in Arizona — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 16:09:47 GMT

I didn't get this ad the first time I saw it. It seemed to be making light of a horrifying time in world history with one of its most bizarre plans - the encouragement of any German soldier to inseminate Arian woman in order to procreate an "ubermensch" society of warrior 'gods' bent on destroying anything not them. Did anyone else get this from this ad or was it just me?

Anyway, I don't hear the ad-babble anymore - I just find myself staring at Shields wrapped in her clinging white knit imagining what she'd look like back in the Blue Lagoon now.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Dane P., Tucson , AZ — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 23:30:46 GMT

Am I the only one who sees the connection between these ads and Hitlers' "master race"? I mean come on! People are having babies to get German engineering?!? I don't like the weird connection or the deadpan and now that I know it's a rebranded Chrysler product I'm even more disturbed. At least I'm not surprised.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Nathan Young, Billings, Mont. — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 17:16:41 GMT

They air these were I live and I thought they were very funny. The only thing that suprises me is the fact that I see from these comments some people don't realize it's just a joke.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

T.E. Hadava — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 07:42:11 GMT

And no one made the connection between babies and german engineering? Holy shades of aryan race and eugenics. The inference was blatant.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Emily, Chicago, IL — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 22:14:25 GMT

As someone going through infertility treatments, I loathe these commercials. They treat having a baby so callously. SOME of us don't get to just pop out babies, and if we did, it wouldn't be for your stupid car.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Lisa, VA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 02:20:29 GMT

One of the funniest ads on TV. Laugh every time I see it. Way to go Brooke and ad company.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

MLO — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 05:19:55 GMT

I find this particular ad extremely offensive. Especially when you consider that Ms. Shields was a spokeswoman for RESOLVE - the National Infertility Awareness Organization. My - and many others - estimation of the woman went way down once she did these commercials.

They are classless and offensive.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

reddog — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 21:31:48 GMT

Brooke....more leg

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

Joni, Indiana — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:47:26 GMT

I believe this article is about commercials--not VWs, not children, families, or minivans...

This series of commercials is very funny, Brooke Shields is very good at the deadpan delivery, very clever commercials all around. And very effective--everyone knows the product being advertised, which is what a commercial is supposed to do--bring the product into the forefront of as many people's minds as possible.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

JM Phila, PA — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:25:29 GMT

Great Ads! Crappy vehicles those VDubs...

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

JM Phila PA — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:27:02 GMT

Oh. And to Macy in Manchester:
Saturn Corp has never, ever, ever in their entire existence EVER made a dime for GM. They, like Saab has been a drain on the cash reserves of GM. It's time to shoot the horse.

Nothing comes between Brooke Shields and a minivan

JM Phila. PA — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:28:43 GMT

TO: Your mom, my mom, their moms
Maybe you should lighten up a bit so your kids don't wind up on drugs, or killing themselves due to your stupidity and intrusiveness.