Volkswagen Sharan (10 on) - Review

Review by Simon McBride on
Last Updated: 21 February 2011
The first Sharan MPV was launched in the UK in 1995 but it received a refresh in May 2000 and retained much of its people-carrier characteristics. This latest version, however, is much more car-like than the previous generation: the only parts that carry over from the last vehicle are the sun blinds – every other part on the car is brand new. The exterior and the interior look much more upmarket and the Sharan receives electrically operated sliding side doors to make entering and exiting the vehicle even easier than before. The new Sharan has grown in both length and width and it sits 12mm lower giving it a more sporty look.
4 out of 5

Performance

From launch two engines will be available in the Sharan line-up. This includes the 148bhp 1.4-litre TSi petrol and the 138bhp 2.0-litre TDi diesel. The 1.4-litre TSi petrol will average 38.1mpg while the 138bhp 2.0-litre diesel averages 52.3mpg. The petrol engine will get from 0 to 62mph in 10.7 seconds and has a top speed of 122mph. The 138bhp 2.0-litre TDi diesel can do the benchmark dash in 10.9 seconds and it has a top speed of 121mph. The engines are mated to either a six-speed manual or an optional DSG gearbox. All models feature stop/start technology (with the exception of the 197bhp 2.0-litre petrol TSi) which helps to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency. The Sharan range will be boosted by two additional engines in 2011 - a 168bhp 2.0-litre TDi diesel and a 197bhp 2.0-litre TSi petrol engine.

3.5 out of 5

Handling

The new Sharan is a far cry from its original boxy shape. It has a sleeker look because it sits 12mm lower on the road than its predecessor. This lower stance and shedding 30kg of weight helps when cornering making it feel less like a van and more like a car. On the motorway it's smooth and unflustered and even though it's 92mm wider and 220mm longer than its predecessor it feels more agile. Now it's much closer to the class-leading Ford Galaxy in terms of its handling abilities.