VW Sharan

Text: Luke Madden / Photos: Automedia

13th July 2009

It looks like the VW Sharan, introduced in 1995, is finally due for an update. Our photographers have captured some shots of a heavily disguised next-generation Sharan undergoing hot weather testing at Death Valley, California.

To keep up with competitors like the Ford S-Max, the new Sharan will be larger in all dimensions. However, unlike its competitors, Volkswagen’s new MPV will have two sliding rear doors for easy access to the back seats.

The new Sharan is likely to take its styling cues from Volkswagen’s new front grille and headlights seen on the latest incarnation of the Golf. The overall look isn’t expected to change much, but a more modern looking MPV than the current model is likely. A line up of petrol engines ranging from 115-200bhp and diesels up to 160bhp are the most probable powertrains for the next-gen people carrier.

Sources have claimed that the new model will be priced higher than the current Sharan, partly to cover higher building costs and partly to separate the two models within the range. It is thought that Volkswagen will offer both models simultaneously for a year or two until the first generation Sharan is discontinued.

The new Sharan will make its debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

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