[KL3223]

I don't think this is coming to our shore, as its Touran that is making its way here. Anyway, since Singapore has launched this and its one level up from Tougan, thot I post this FYI.


Monday, Oct 03, 2011 The Business Times
Review: VW Sharan
By Samuel Ee

Volkswagen would like you to think of its Sharan as a GTI with an MPV body. This is due to the German manufacturer's constant reminder that it has matched its mid-sized seven-seater's space with hot hatch pace - 200 hp to be exact.

But rather than its power, the first impression of the Volkswagen Sharan is likely to be its newfound refinement. The previous Sharan was based on the Ford Galaxy but the current generation is an all-new car that is pure VW. Its chassis components are derived from the Passat, with a similar suspension system to the mid-sized sedan but with very different dimensions.

At 4.85 metres long and 1.9 metres wide, the new Sharan is bigger all round although its exterior styling remains as unexciting as before. It is 1.74 metres high with a generous 2,919 mm long wheelbase. Inside, there is a sculpted dashboard instead of the flat fascia in smaller VWs. The most impressive aspect, however, is the quality of the materials used. The Sharan interior represents a new level of build quality for this model. It is well-made and the familiar VW equipment and controls feel satisfyingly solid.


Standard features include a driver's electric seat and keyless entry and start system. But as an MPV, the focus has to be on its three rows of seats. There are seven individual seats in a spacious cabin that probably has enough headroom for someone wearing a top hat.

To access the last row, a one-touch operation is all that's needed to get the second row seat to spring up and forwards and move out of the way. This one-handed seat-folding ability is extremely helpful if you've had to manhandle less user-friendly alternatives in other MPVs.

Each seat in the two rear rows also has the 'dive-down' ability to be folded and lowered to create a flat cargo floor - perfect for anyone who has a large object or is moonlighting as a mover. Various underfloor compartments and a retractable luggage cover are other thoughtful features.


Also practical are the two electrically operated rear sliding doors, which can be individually activated in three ways - by using the key fob, the pair of buttons on the centre console, or the button on each centre pillar. The safety system has extremely sensitive sensors - a light touch of the finger is all that is needed to stop a door opening or closing. It is also clever - if the electric window is down when a rear door is being opened, the door only opens halfway to avoid wedging, say, a hand or small head between the door-frame and rear pillar.

Best of all, these family-friendly features are found in a people carrier that handles rather well. The two-litre turbocharged engine with its 280 Nm of torque drives the front wheels enthusiastically. And while the Sharan is a tall car, the driver sits relatively low. The big MPV has good CG and takes fast corners better than other cars in its class. And all this without the XDS 'electronic differential' for sharper turn in either.

But despite its performance and handling abilities, the Sharan's space is probably going to impress potential buyers more than its pace. Still, it never hurts to have a bit of extra oomph.



Volkswagen Sharan
Price: $190,300 with COE
Engine: 1,984cc turbocharged
Gearbox: 6-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission
Max Power: 200 hp @ 5,100 rpm
Max Torque: 280 Nm @ 1,700-5,000 rpm
0-100kmh: 8.3 secs
Top speed: 221 kmh
Distributor: Volkswagen Group Singapore
Tel: 6474-8288

[Kevin]

It's coming next year.

[KlaKla]

It's coming next year.

2012? Can't wait!!!

[Iskandar]

It's coming next year.

it was advertised in the papers yesterday. And a teaser is on the VW Malaysia website.

one is being advertised - uploaded on 4 Feb 2012 on Autoworld seller's listing. RM270k w/o insurance.

pergh.....

Isk

[khlee23]

it was advertised in the papers yesterday. And a teaser is on the VW Malaysia website.

one is being advertised - uploaded on 4 Feb 2012 on Autoworld seller's listing. RM270k w/o insurance.

pergh.....

Isk

the price of VW in Malaysia really high..... lets hope their CKD version is more affordable.

[lp16]

Say thanks to Proton.

Now it's a Malaysian car rather than a National car, hope the gov can let all players compete on a level playing field. Otherwise, it proves the gov protects cronies rather than the industry.

[br1]

Say thanks to Proton.

Now it's a Malaysian car rather than a National car, hope the gov can let all players compete on a level playing field. Otherwise, it proves the gov protects cronies rather than the industry.

protected for the past 1/4 century!!! should have grown up and be a man to stand tall! maybe anothe 1/4 century, most probably I am dead by then! if not also past 80 yrs old! hahahaha - no eyes to see then!
By really I see some slow small improvement now, especially when the korean cars came in last 10 yrs ago - good for all!

[br1]

the price of VW in Malaysia really high..... lets hope their CKD version is more affordable.

ya, tough and not so affordable to most and many like it though! at 200+++K, it look decent and nice!
But should be many on the road soon, many still have the $$$$ to spend, maybe estima may slow down alittle in sales?

[thinkerr]

ya, tough and not so affordable to most and many like it though! at 200+++K, it look decent and nice!
But should be many on the road soon, many still have the $$$$ to spend, maybe estima may slow down alittle in sales?

Disappointed with the pricing...this would be a suitable ride for my family. Now hoping the CKD version will be cheaper.

[kenso]

Disappointed with the pricing...this would be a suitable ride for my family. Now hoping the CKD version will be cheaper.

Yeah, and I find the advertisement used by VW saying "When families deserve the best your money can buy" distasteful by implying that you ain't got enough money to buy this for your family or you're not putting your family as a priority in purchasing other MPVs other than this