The Euro-spec Volkswagen Sharan has soldiered on with little in the way of updates since it first launched in February 1995, but our latest spy shots prove a significant update is finally in the works. The next-generation is expected to debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
Like its competitors from Ford , Renault and Opel, the new Sharan will grow significantly in all dimensions but, different from the others, will feature two sliding doors for easy access to the passenger compartment. Aside from its retention of sliding doors, however, the new Sharan will be an evolutionary development of the current design. The next-gen Sharan will be more modern, of course, and feature a Golf-derived front fascia, but its overall design will be more evolutionary rather than revolutionary.
Underhood, European buyers can expect gas engines ranging between 115 and 200+ horsepower, and TDI diesels up to 160 horsepower. To date, no substantial rumors or leaks have shed more light on the drivetrain for the next Sharan, leaving ample room for speculation.
Although it is difficult to make out details through the camo, it appears as if the Sharan will take on design language common to the 2010 Polo and Rabbit models.
Although VW currently sells the Chrysler -made Routan minivan in the United States, it remains possible that the Sharan could eventually wind up on our shores. Routan sales have never been very strong, putting the entire program in jeopardy. If VW does pull the plug on the Routan – the Sharan could be an adequate replacement. Giving credence to possible U.S. Sharan sales, these spy photos were taken in the southwest United States.
