The big Volkswagen MPV, the Sharan, is having a minor makeover to keep it fresh, with new technology, more fuel-efficient engines and some very, very minor visual alterations.
Exterior
Well, we did say minor alterations - externally, the updated Sharan benefits from LED rear lights. And that's your lot.
Interior
Some new accents and materials are splashed about inside, while the instrument cluster has been mildly redesigned. The bigger news is the addition of a second-generation modular infotainment platform, including App Connect - so with MirrorLink, Android Auto and Car Play all on board, a wide variety of apps can be fed into the high-resolution touchscreen entertainment systems.
In terms of additional driving tech, the Sharan benefits from standard Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and optional kit in the form of Front Assist with City Emergency Braking, Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, third-generation Park Assist and the Blind Spot Monitor.
Mechanicals
The petrol TSI and diesel TDI engines are said to be 'completely redesigned', although Volkswagen won't go into specifics. Instead, it claims the turbocharged direct-injection motors are up to 15 per cent more efficient across the board and they all conform to EU6 regulations. The petrols offer either 150- or 220hp, the latter a 20hp increase on its predecessor, while the diesels come in either 115-, 150- or 184hp formats. These last two are up 10- and 7hp respectively on their forerunners. All engines, barring the 115hp TDI, can be mated to an optional six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission with coasting function.
Anything else?
The updated Sharan will arrive on the German market this summer, with advance sales beginning in April. Expect other markets, such as ours here in Ireland, to follow suit soon after.