Name and Production Years
The second-generation Volkswagen Sharan (sometimes referred to as Typ 7N or 7N0) was produced from 2010 to 2022. In 2014, the model underwent a facelift that affected the exterior, interior, and technical components.
Model Code and Body Type
The Sharan Mk2 was based on the Volkswagen Group A4 (PQ46) platform, which was also used for the Volkswagen Passat B6/B7 and Skoda Superb II. The body code is 7N0, and after the facelift, it became 7N1.
The body type is a 5-door minivan with front-wheel or all-wheel drive (4Motion). The model was available in 5- and 7-seat configurations, with the second row offering either a three-seat bench or two individual captain's chairs.
2014 Facelift
In 2014, the Sharan received updates:
- Exterior: New radiator grille, redesigned bumpers, LED headlights (optional), updated taillights.
- Interior: Improved materials, new multimedia system (MIB), digital instrument cluster (optional).
- Safety: Added systems like City Emergency Braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
- Engines: Updated TSI and TDI lineup, including the 1.4 TSI (150 HP), 2.0 TSI (220 HP), and 2.0 TDI (150–184 HP).
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How to Remove the Front Bumper
- Lift the hood.
- Unscrew the three screws (fastened top to bottom) securing the radiator grille.
- Pull the radiator grille toward you and remove it (held by four top and eight bottom clips).
- Under the bumper, unscrew five (or seven) screws (fastened bottom to top).
- Turn the wheels to the left or right.
- In the wheel arches, unscrew the screws (three on each side) securing the fender liners.
- Bend the fender liners aside and unscrew two screws (one on each side) securing the corners to the guide rails in the fenders.
- Release four clips on each side in the fenders (pull the corners sharply toward you).
- Use a flathead screwdriver to release six clips behind the radiator grille.
- (Requires an assistant) Remove the bumper by pulling it forward (watch for wires and hoses).
- (If applicable) Disconnect the connectors for the temperature sensor, fog lights, and parking assist.
- If there are headlight washers, disconnect the hoses (note: fluid will leak out).
How to Remove the Rear Bumper
- Lift the tailgate (rear door).
- Open the covers in the side trim of the trunk.
- Under the covers, unscrew two plastic screws securing the taillights by hand.
- Release the electrical connectors (pull out the red lock, then remove the connector) and remove the taillights.
- Under the taillights, unscrew four screws (two on each side) securing the top of the rear bumper.
- In the wheel arches, unscrew three screws on each side (use a Torx bit and ratchet to avoid removing the wheels) securing the rear part of the fender liners.
- Move the fender liners aside and unscrew one screw on each side securing the corners to the guide rails in the fenders.
- Unscrew the lower screws (the number may vary depending on the year and trim).
- Release the sides from the clips in the fenders (pull the corners sharply toward you).
- Release the clips in the trunk opening (simply pull toward you).
- With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it backward (watch for wires).
- On the left side (in the direction of travel), release the main electrical connector.
Modifications and Engines
The Sharan Mk2 was offered with petrol and diesel engines:
- Petrol (TSI):
- 1.4 TSI (150 HP) – turbocharged with direct injection.
- 2.0 TSI (200–220 HP) – the most powerful option, available with DSG.
- Diesel (TDI):
- 2.0 TDI (140, 150, 177, 184 HP) – the most popular option in Europe.
Transmissions:
- 6-speed manual (MQ350) – for base versions.
- 6-speed DSG (DQ250) – for mid-range models.
- 7-speed DSG (DQ500) – for powerful TSI and TDI variants.
Trim Levels
- Trendline – basic, with air conditioning, power accessories, and simple multimedia.
- Comfortline – mid-level, with climate control, parking sensors, and improved trim.
- Highline – top-tier, with leather seats, panoramic roof, and adaptive cruise.
Features and Technologies
- Sliding doors – rear doors with electric drive (optional).
- EasyFold system – transforms seats with one motion.
- Park Assist – automated parking (post-facelift).
Interesting Facts
- Joint project with Ford: The Sharan Mk2 was developed jointly with the Ford Galaxy and Ford S-Max, but unlike the first generation, it used a Volkswagen-exclusive platform.
- R-Line sport version: After the facelift, an R-Line package with a more aggressive design was introduced.
- Hybrid version: A hybrid Sharan was considered in 2020 but was canceled in favor of the ID. Buzz.
- Comparison with competitors: The Sharan lagged in sales behind more practical models like the Citroën C4 Picasso and Renault Espace but excelled in reliability.
- End of production: In 2022, the Sharan was discontinued due to declining demand for minivans in favor of SUVs.
Conclusion
The Volkswagen Sharan Mk2 was one of Europe’s last classic minivans. It combined German quality, practicality, and modern technology but couldn’t compete with the SUV trend. Nevertheless, it remains a reliable and family-friendly car, especially in diesel versions.