Review: 2018 Volkswagen Sharan II (facelift 2015) 1.4 TSI (150 Hp) DSG

The 2018 Volkswagen Sharan II, with its facelift from 2015, is a versatile minivan that caters to families and individuals seeking a spacious and practical vehicle. With its 1.4 TSI engine and DSG automatic transmission, the Sharan offers a blend of performance and efficiency, making it a compelling choice for those in need of a reliable people mover. In this review, we'll delve into the Sharan's features, performance, and suitability for different driving needs.

Understanding the Basics

Before we dive into the specifics, let's clarify some key terms:

TSI Engine: TSI stands for Turbocharged Stratified Injection, a technology that combines turbocharging and direct fuel injection to enhance power and efficiency.
DSG Transmission: DSG, or Direct-Shift Gearbox, is a type of automatic transmission that offers smooth and quick gear changes, improving driving comfort.
Minivan/MPV: A minivan, also known as a Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV), is designed to transport passengers comfortably, often featuring flexible seating arrangements.

Performance and Efficiency

The Sharan's 1.4 TSI engine delivers 150 horsepower, providing adequate power for city and highway driving. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.9 seconds, which is respectable for a vehicle of its size. The top speed of 198 km/h (123 mph) ensures it can handle long-distance travel with ease.

Fuel efficiency is a strong point for the Sharan, with combined fuel consumption ranging from 6.7 to 7.1 liters per 100 km (35.11 - 33.13 US mpg). This makes it an economical choice for families who frequently travel long distances. The Euro 6d-TEMP emission standard ensures it meets stringent environmental regulations, with CO2 emissions between 153-160 g/km.

Space and Practicality

One of the Sharan's standout features is its spacious interior. With seating for up to seven passengers and a flexible seating arrangement, it can easily accommodate families and their gear. The trunk space is generous, offering 955 liters with all seats in place and expanding to 2430 liters when the rear seats are folded down.

The Sharan's dimensions (length: 4854 mm, width: 1904 mm, height: 1746 mm) provide ample room for passengers and cargo, while the 2920 mm wheelbase ensures a stable and comfortable ride. The vehicle's kerb weight of 1715 kg and maximum load capacity of 595 kg make it suitable for carrying heavy loads.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

The Volkswagen Sharan is particularly well-suited for:

Family Use: With its spacious interior, flexible seating, and ample cargo space, the Sharan is ideal for families who need to transport children, pets, and luggage.
Long-Distance Travel: The efficient engine and comfortable ride make it a great choice for road trips and vacations.
City Driving: While its size may be a challenge in tight urban spaces, the Sharan's smooth DSG transmission and power steering make it manageable in city traffic.

However, it may not be the best fit for:

Single Ownership: The Sharan's size and seating capacity may be excessive for individuals who don't require the extra space.
Adventure Lifestyles: While it can handle light towing, its front-wheel-drive system and ground clearance of 152 mm may limit its off-road capabilities.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths: Spacious interior, efficient engine, flexible seating, suitable for families and long-distance travel.
Weaknesses: Large size may be cumbersome in urban settings, limited off-road capability.

Conclusion

The 2018 Volkswagen Sharan II is a versatile and practical minivan that excels in providing comfort and space for families and long-distance travelers. Its efficient engine and flexible interior make it a reliable choice for those who prioritize practicality and economy. When considering a vehicle, think about what features matter most to you. Do you need extra cargo space or seating for a large family? The Sharan might just be the perfect fit.

Specifications Table

Attribute	Details
Generation	Sharan II (facelift 2015)
Modification (Engine)	1.4 TSI (150 Hp) DSG
Powertrain Architecture	Internal Combustion engine
Body Type	Minivan, MPV
Seats	5-7
Doors	5
Combined Fuel Consumption	6.7-7.1 l/100 km
CO2 Emissions	153-160 g/km
Fuel Type	Petrol (Gasoline)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	9.9 sec
Maximum Speed	198 km/h
Emission Standard	Euro 6d-TEMP
Engine Displacement	1395 cm3
Number of Cylinders	4
Engine Configuration	Inline
Power Output	150 Hp
Torque	250 Nm
Kerb Weight	1715 kg
Max Load	595 kg
Trunk Space (Minimum and Maximum)	955 l - 2430 l
Fuel Tank Capacity	70 l
Length	4854 mm
Width	1904 mm
Height	1746 mm
Wheelbase	2920 mm
Drive Wheel System	Front wheel drive
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)	6 gears, automatic transmission DSG
Front Brakes	Ventilated discs
Rear Brakes	Disc
Assisting Systems	ABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power Steering	Electric Steering
Tire Size	205/60 R16 H; 225/50 R17 H; 225/45 R18 H
Wheel Rims Size	6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18