Volkswagen Sharan Estate 2000 - Present

The Sharan is a full-size people carrier with seven seats. It shares a look and many of its parts with the 2000-2006 Ford Galaxy and SEAT Alhambra. However, the VW justifies it's extra premium by having a higher quality interior finish than the Ford and SEAT. Originally launched in 1996 the Sharan is starting to show it's age. Not offering the versatility that some of it's rivals do in terms of flat folding seats and storage room, the Sharan is starting to get left behind

There is really no glamour about the Sharan as it looks big and cumbersome. It really is a grown up car, one that is brought because you need to get the family about. On the inside The cabin is well insulated against wind, road and engine noise . The cabin has an airy and sophisticated feel and all the seats are comfortable for adults. As with many MPVs those in the very back suffer the least leg room, but indentations in the seatbacks give Junior a little extra knee room. Accessing the third row seats is tricky enough to ensure that it is the youngest, fittest or the dog that sits there.

When behind the wheel you're treated to one of the better handling big people carriers on the market. The steering is precise and well-weighted and there is comparatively little in the way of bodyroll. The handling is achieved at the expense of comfort. The Sharan provides a rather hard ride, which demands smooth driving in order to minimise discomfort to passengers on uneven roads. It is front wheel driven although some models were fitted with 4MOTION four-wheel-drive system, giving extra grip for slippery conditions. 4MOTION and V6 models were fitted with stability control to help the driver regain control in emergency situations, but the system was an extra cost option on other models in the range.

The engine options begins with a 2.0-litre 115bhp petrol, which tends to struggle when moving a fully laden model. The smart money will go for the 1.8T with 150bhp. A 2.8-litre V6 with 204bhp was available for those who could take the 26mpg fuel consumption, but this was discontinued in 2006. As ever diesel power is preferable for those wanting a combination of acceptable fuel economy and good pulling power. The 1.9TDI makes a respectable work horse with 115bhp, while the 140bhp 2.0-litre TDI is the best balance of economy and power offering decent town and cruising ability and still returning 42mpg fuel economy. A 90bhp 1.9TDI was offered from 2001 to 2002, but is best avoided due to its weak performance.

If you need to have the room to take a few people away for a camping trip the Sharan is a decent option. Reliable and sturdy, but short on thrills and glamour though.

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