Insurance Group: 14
MPG: 50.4
CO2: 146
0-62 Mph: 12.6 secs
BHP: 113 BHP
Range: 776 miles
PROS: The Sharan is a car that comes with seven seats and plenty of space for a large family, and the diesel engine delivers a balance of fuel economy and performance, and isn't too skimpy on the equipment either.
CONS: Acceleration isn't particularly sharp with this version of the Sharan, and there are a few omissions on the equipment list that do actually feel a little stingy for a car of this size.
The suspension offers a well balanced ride that takes out the majority of bumps from the road, while still controlling the body roll and offering some feedback through the steering wheel. The accurate steering means that it is quite smooth to drive, although the large stature of the Sharan means that parking the car can be a little difficult, especially in the tight spaces around town. The driving position is good and offers plenty of visibility, and the driving seat and steering wheel can both be adjusted to get a comfortable set up.
The engine performance is a little bit disappointing but this version of the Sharan is one that has been designed for fuel efficiency. Acceleration from 0-62mph is achieved in 12.6 seconds which is fairly ponderous, even for vehicles as big as this. The top speed of 114mph isn't too bad, and the quiet refined cabin means that even driving at motorway speeds is comfortable and well within the car's comfort zone.
Although the Volkswagen Sharan is a large car it doesn't look bad at all, with the large headlight clusters and typical Volkswagen grille giving the car an attractive front end. The cabin is a little square, but the large rear window does give the car's back end a nice look and also benefits the level of visibility for the driver. Inside the car the dashboard displays information clearly and simply, and has a centre console that is easy to use with chunky controls.
One disappointing aspect of the Sharan is that the level of equipment has left out a few items that would be expected in a car with this price tag. The lack of alloy wheels is certainly a shame, but the car does come with a CD stereo and climate control.
The Sharan delivers one of the most practical vehicles available without going for a minibus, and the seats in the back of the car can also be folded to improve the load space of the car. The boot space isn't huge with all seven seats in place, but the two seats in the back are much easier to use than those in smaller seven seat vehicles like the Peugeot 5008. The reputation of Volkswagen for making reliable cars is well deserved, with the Sharan also proving to be very reliable.
The Sharan has achieved five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test, and comes with a number of driver aids to help keep the car under control at all times. There are also seven airbags to look after passengers in case of an accident.
The list price for this version of the Sharan is £24,590, but many people will want to consider the Seat Alhambra which is based on the same shape while being a little cheaper to buy.
The running costs of this diesel engine are very good, with the 2.0 litre unit able to deliver an average 50.4mpg. The insurance group for the Sharan isn't too bad meaning that premiums should be reasonable, and the resale values of the car are pretty competitive too which should soften the blow when you sell the car. The Sharan comes with a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty, and also has a year's roadside breakdown assistance.
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