Breakdown
Styling
This is not the Sharan's strong point, but then it is unlikely that many of the 600,000 that VW sold of the old version were bought because of its looks.
Handling
For a very large car - not much short of five meters in length - the Sharan handles surprisingly well. Don't expect it to provide wild amounts of fun once you have dropped the kids off at school, but it will at least feel like you are piloting a car at least a category or two smaller thanks to light steering and the parking assist option.
Comfort
So long as you avoid the Sport option on the dynamic control button (a totally pointless feature on a car this size) the Sharan will waft along in supreme comfort. There is little body roll under normal driving conditions, yet it manages to avoid the harsh ride that often comes as a compromise in this situation.
Quality + Reliability
Everything feels beautifully solid in the Sharan's cabin, enough to repel the inquisitive attention of younger passengers. The base model is a little basic in areas, but elements such as the steering wheel and dashboard materials are all pleasing to the touch.
Performance
None of the engines feel particularly fast, with 0-60mph times hovering around the 10 second mark, but the diesels especially offer enough grunt to reassure you that they will be able to overtake slower vehicles when required.
Roominess
This could be nothing but a five star score - the boot is massive, and all five of the rear seats fold away neatly to create a flat loading space. Legroom in the second row is excellent with the seats slid all the way back, and decent when they are moved forward to accommodate passengers in the third row.
Running Costs
The admirable 138bhp 2.0-litre diesel claims an average fuel economy in excess of 50mpg, which is fantastic for a car this big, even if you only get within 10 percent of that figure. Volkswagens enjoy a good reputation for reliability, and there's no reason to think the Sharan will be bothering the local mechanics too much.
Value for money
The basic model is not poorly equipped - front and rear climate control, a digital radio and electric windows all round are all standard - but you have to go right up the range to get the likes of the panoramic sunroof, alloy wheels and cruise control. The electric doors are only a cost option.
Stereo / Sat nav
As the UK will eventually scrap the analogue radio service, including a digital radio as standard is helpful as Sharan owners will not have to worry about the changeover. The satnav is only available as an optional extra, but the touchscreen system is easy to use and clear in instructions.
