| Overall Rating |
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| Description |
| Galaxy is essentially the same as Sharan and Alhambra: a flexible family wagon that drives like a car. Its only drawback is lack of loadspace with seven seats in use. |
| Handling |
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| Comfort |
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| Quality & Reliability |
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| Performance |
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| Roominess |
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| Running Costs |
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| Value for Money |
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| Stereo/Sat Nav |
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| NCAP |
| 3 for VW Sharan |
| Best Models |
| 1.9 TD 110 Ghia; 2.3 Si; 7-seaters |
| Worst Models |
| 2.0 Aspen 5-seater; 2.8 4x4 models |
| Replacement |
| by current generation Galaxy from Aug 2000 |
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| Road Test |
| Of all the mid-Nineties MPVs, 'Sharalaxy' (Sharan, Alhambra, Galaxy) remains the most popular. Only slightly longer than a typical medium estate car, it's not at all daunting to drive. In fact the high seating and big windows give an above-average view of the road. Ride is quite refined, with not much unsettling body roll. Interior space is fine for five. In seven-seaters, the rear two seats are cramped for adults. And a large family's holiday gear won't fit in - think roof-box instead. Comfort is good, with generous equipment except on Aspen and LX. Aspen also lacks standard air con - a must in a greenhouse-like MPV. Petrol engines are livelier than diesels but struggle to return 30mpg. VW's 1.9TD unit is willing but never quick; it gives 40mpg and is most used buyers' first choice. Safety and security standards are adequate, though on early cars only high-spec Ghia models have ABS. |
| Positive Points |
- More flexible than a big estate car
- Reasonable running costs
- Easy to drive, manoeuvre and park
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| Negative Points |
- Diesels feel sluggish when laden
- Rear space in seven-seaters is tight
- Minor reliability issues: trim, electrics
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