The most striking feature of the Sharan is its frontal styling; the bonnet features two prominent creases that lead down to a bold, chrome grille. At the back of the Sharan there is a distinctive design, with chrome-ringed light clusters. As you climb aboard the Sharan, you’ll immediately notice three things space, comfort and quality. This includes lovely touches like silver-ringed instruments, backlit at light with the familiar Volkswagen blue glow. There's also a smart centre console with space for the optional satellite navigation system and a chunky four-spoke steering wheel. More practical touches include retractable cup holders, extra map pockets in the doors and a pair of useful lidded cubby-holes on top of the dash.These days, all models feature a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. If that doesn't suit, there's the option of a 5-speed automatic with Tiptronic override that allows you flip manually between the cogs. The entry-level is an 115bhp 2.0-litre petrol, or the base 115bhp 1. 9-litre turbo diesel, even better is the 140bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel option, with an advanced injection system, smoother performance and greater refinement it will get to 62mph from a standing start in 12.2s and average over 41mpg. There’s also a powerful 150bhp 1. 8-litre 20v petrol turbo engine for those seeking extra performance.
Seven seats are standard on all models, the two front seats can be swivelled round completely to face the rear which is great for picnics and business meetings if you're stationary and there's only four in the car. The Sharan's road handling has always been at the forefront of its class and a series of suspension tweaks for the second generation models improved things still further. The German engineers concentrated particularly on improving the ride over poor surfaces - the kind of thing you notice around town - and they've largely succeeded without compromising the higher speed handling that makes this car the surprisingly rewarding drive it is.
Despite the most recent improvement in standard specifications prices remain competitive across three trim levels S, SE and Sport. As for items of equipment, even the entry-level model gets curtain airbags, 16" alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, air-conditioning, security remote central locking, roof rails, an alarm, a trip computer, four airbags, ABS, an electronic engine immobiliser, electric front windows, power steering and a good quality radio/CD player. As before the reassurance of a three-year warranty is standard across the range.
