VW Sharan 1.9TDi Review
The VW Sharan MPV features front drive and 4-motion 4wd plus 7 passenger seats. The VW Sharan Sport, Sharan SE and Sharan Carat come with either the 1.9 TDi 90 bhp, 1.9 TDi 115 bhp or 1.9TDi 130 bhp.
The latest version of the VW Sharan 1.9TDi looks more stylish and beefits from better handling and a smoother ride. The turbo-diesel unit is more efficient and the flexible seven seat layout is a big plus for this top MPV.
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
The entry-level option is a 2.0-litre petrol engine (115bhp), which struggles when the Sharan 1.9TDi’s fully-laden. Best options are the diesels: a 113bhp 1.9, which is all you really need, or the 138bhp 2.0-litre, which performs well.
Ride & Handling
4 out of 5 stars
From their launch, the Sharan 1.9TDi and its relatives proved to be the best-handling big MPVs and feel almost saloon-like to drive. The ride is rather firm, to avoid upsetting the passengers, but it is far from harsh. For such a big car the Sharan 1.9TDi is easy and fluent to direct with good, accurate power steering. It’s simple to thread through busy streets.
Refinement
3 out of 5 stars
The big cabin is nicely insulated from outside noises, and road roar is well suppressed. There’s not too much wind rustle, despite the presence of roof rails. The engines are reasonably quiet unless revved, although the diesels can be clattery.
Buying & Owning
3 out of 5 stars
The Sharan 1.9TDi can be pricey, despite the likelihood of dealer discounts. Only the diesels better 30mpg and insurance is at least group 11, while routine servicing is costlier than that of a Passat. Tax bills for company drivers will be steep, too. Depreciation is higher than on most other VWs because of the likelihood of the car suffering greater wear and tear through rigorous family use.
Quality & Reliability
2 out of 5 stars
The cabin looks classy and well-assembled, though the paler trim tones may suffer from abuse by children. Customers have reported problems in satisfaction surveys and the Sharan 1.9TDi has been mechanically unreliable, but it’s thoroughly tried, tested and de-bugged by now.
Safety & Security
4 out of 5 stars
Every Sharan 1.9TDi comes with twin front, side and full-length curtain airbags as standard, though stability control – a key aid in a high-roofed, high-riding vehicle – is an extra-cost option and traction control is not available. An alarm is standard-fit.
Behind The Wheel
4 out of 5 stars
The Sharan 1.9TDi is great in the way it doesn’t make you feel like you’re driving a bus. The driving position is excellent, with two-way steering adjustment and driver’s seat-height movement to help most get comfortable. Forward and rearward visibility is compromised in the plush cabin, but the controls are well laid out and there’s good storage.
Space & Practicality
3 out of 5 stars
As with most MPVs, the Sharan 1.9TDi is a compromise: you can carry seven people or their luggage, but not both at the same time. However, once one or two of the chairs have been removed the luggage capacity increases considerably. Unfortunately, the chairs are fairly heavy to remove.
Equipment
4 out of 5 stars
Every Sharan 1.9TDi is well equipped, having electric front windows and mirrors, power steering, remote central locking, air-conditioning and alloy wheels as standard. Parking distance sensors are also a standard fit. Sport models have climate control, a CD multichanger and electric rear windows.
Key Features of the VW Sharan 1.9TDi Diesel
Good reliability record and a quality badge with a range of diesel engines
One of the best handling big MPV’s on the market with precise power steering and minimal bodyroll.
With 7 seats it makes it an ideal vehicle for a large family or as a business vehicle for carrying work colleagues or as a taxi.
Good all-round visibility even when it has seven people on board.
Similar Models to the VW Sharan 1.9TDi Diesel
Renault Espace Diesel, Chrysler Voyager Diesel, Toyota Previa Diesel
VW Sharan 1.9TDi Diesel Estates & MPVs - Further Information
If you require any further information or would like some assistance with deciding upon which diesel Estate or MPV would best be suited to you or your business then please contact us at sales@denburydiesels.co.uk