| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Sharan is closely related to Alhambra and similar to Galaxy: all are flexible family wagons that drive like a car. Loadspace is restricted with seven seats in use. |
| Handling |
 |
| Comfort |
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| Quality & Reliability |
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| Performance |
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| Roominess |
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| Running Costs |
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| Value for Money |
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| Stereo/Sat Nav |
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| NCAP |
| 3 |
| Best Models |
| 1.8 T 20v Sport; 1.9 TDi 110 SE; seven-seaters |
| Worst Models |
| 2.0 CL, 2.0 S; five-seaters; 2.8 VR6 Synro |
| Replacement |
| by current Sharan in mid-2000 |
|
| Road Test |
| Sharan seems classier than Galaxy thanks to the status and quality implied by its badge. Slightly bigger than a medium estate, it's easy to drive with a good view of the road thanks to high seating and big windows. Ride is quite refined, with little unsettling body roll. Interior space is fine for five. In seven-seaters, the rear two seats are cramped for adults. And a large family's gear won't fit in - think roof-box. Comfort is good, with generous equipment except on S and CL; these and early GLs lack standard air con - a must in an MPV. Petrol engines struggle to return 30mpg; the 1.8T is better than the smooth but thirsty VR6. The 1.9 TDi pulls well but is not quick; it gives 40mpg. The 110 bhp is favoured over the TDi 90. Safety and security standards are adequate, though among pre-1998 cars only VR6s have standard ABS. |
| Positive Points |
- Good occupant/load flexibility
- Reasonable running costs
- Easy to drive, manoeuvre and park
|
| Negative Points |
- Diesels are a bit sluggish when laden
- Rear space in seven-seaters is tight
- The name doesn?t do it any favours
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