Volkswagen Sharan Review, Specs & Performance

Overview of the Volkswagen Sharan

Engines and performance for the Volkswagen Sharan

The Volkswagen Sharan comes with a choice of two 2.0 litre diesels and both are turbocharged units producing either 148hp or 175bhp. Around town, the former delivers the best levels of performance, even when the Sharan is fully loaded. On long motorway journeys, the more powerful diesel engine delivers excellent levels of performance. There's also a 1.4 litre petrol engine producing 148 bhp and it's a surprisingly responsive engine and will deliver a 0 to 62 mph sprint time of less than 10 seconds. The diesel engines return economy of around 44 mpg, while the petrol unit should return 37 mpg when mated to the six-speed manual box.

Equipment and handling

The Volkswagen Sharan offers one of the most reliable and best equipped seven-seater MPVs currently available. There is space enough for grown adults to enjoy a comfortable and refined offering. Despite its size, the Sharan delivers a nice handling experience with well weighted steering and there's little body roll in corners. Also, VW offers their MPV with adaptive chassis control as an option to help boost ride comfort when necessary. There is a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen for the entertainment system and the interior is a refined and premium looking offering. Other standard kit includes three-zone air conditioning, satnav and DAB radio. Other models feature parking sensors, alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control and folding tray tables. The top trim has a panoramic sunroof to give the cabin a more spacious and airy feel and there are heated front seats. Safety kit for the Volkswagen Sharan includes electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes and a post-collision braking system. Options include lane keeping assist, a rear view camera and parking assistance - and all are worth considering because of the vehicle's size but drivers do get a good view and it's an easy car to park. It's also easy to get in and out of thanks to the sliding doors so tight parking spaces are not an issue. There's no doubt the Sharan is one the best MPVs available with decent safety credentials, a quality interior and impressive handling around town. Essentially, the Volkswagen Sharan offers drivers a comfortable and refined vehicle that is not just practical and versatile but it is also a robust and well-made offering, particularly for families.

More information about the Volkswagen Sharan

Why not have a look at the Sharan on the official Volkswagen UK company website and get the latest news about it at The UK Volkswagen Owners' Club.