Volkswagen Sharan (00-10) - Review

Review by Ben Wall on
Last Updated: 18 November 2009
The Sharan is Volkswagen's full-sized people carrier that offers impressive cabin space for up to seven adults along with a comfortable ride and decent refinement. If it looks familiar, that's because it's the sister car to both the SEAT Alhambra and the 2000 Ford Galaxy, but while the Galaxy was replaced by a more stylish model in 2006, the Sharan (and the Alhambra for that matter) continue. As a result, it is starting to look a little dated, not helped by a boxy shape and a rather bland interior. It's proved very reliable and durable though, while there's also a Bluemotion low-emissions model available. However, the SEAT Alhambra represents better value for money, both new and used. A facelift in 2004 gave it a slightly tweaked look and better standard equipment.
3.5 out of 5

Other Volkswagen reviews

3.5 out of 5

Safety

This Sharan was never crash tested by Euro NCAP but the previous (and very similar) model was, receiving a three-out-of-five-star Euro NCAP rating which is now well below average. The safety organisation pointed out that the cabin was badly damaged in the frontal impact test and became structurally unstable, while the area around the driver was severely reduced. There are six airbags and ESP stability control is optional on those models where it's not standard. Some have built-in child seats in the rear, which can also be used as a booster seat for youngsters. Deadlocks with remote central locking and an alarm and immobiliser are standard-fit security measures.

NCAP Test

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    3 out of 5

  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    2 out of 5
3 out of 5

Reliability

Like all Volkswagen's this is well built and durable, but there have been recurring reports from owners of issues including problems with the air conditioning and electrics, in particular the windows.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

A recall in 2005 where the bolts of the fuel pump cover may break (on TDI models only). A further recall in 2006 for 1.9 TDI models where the flywheel may fail and could result in a fire.

Other

A recall in 2002 where the windscreen wiper motor may fail. Check for electric problems with windows.