The Volkswagen Sharan II 2.0 TDI (115 hp) SCR 7-seat model, produced between 2011 and 2015, represents a significant iteration of Volkswagen’s popular minivan. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Sharan II lineup, it catered to families seeking a practical and relatively fuel-efficient seven-passenger vehicle. This generation Sharan, built on the PQ46 platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), aimed to improve upon the original Sharan’s strengths with updated styling, enhanced safety features, and more modern engine technology. The “SCR” designation indicates the inclusion of Selective Catalytic Reduction, a system designed to reduce NOx emissions, reflecting Volkswagen’s commitment to meeting increasingly stringent European emission standards.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sharan |
| Generation | Sharan II |
| Type | 2.0 TDI (115 Hp) SCR 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 143 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.4 kg/Hp, 64.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 158 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CFFE |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1772 kg (3906.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2360 kg (5202.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 588 kg (1296.32 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2297 l (81.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4854 mm (191.1 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Height | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2919 mm (114.92 in.) |
| Front track | 1569 mm (61.77 in.) |
| Rear track | 1617 mm (63.66 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Sharan II 2.0 TDI (115 hp) is the CFFE engine code, a 1968cc inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve efficiency. The engine features four valves per cylinder, contributing to its breathing efficiency. The SCR system, crucial for meeting Euro 5 emissions standards, injects AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) into the exhaust stream, converting NOx into harmless nitrogen and water. This particular engine was known for its relatively smooth operation compared to earlier diesel engines, though it lacked the outright performance of higher-powered TDI variants. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a good balance between fuel economy and drivability. The gear ratios were tuned for relaxed cruising, prioritizing comfort over sporty acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 115 hp 2.0 TDI Sharan, paired with the six-speed manual gearbox, offered a competent but not exhilarating driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12 seconds, making it suitable for everyday driving and long journeys, but not for quick overtaking maneuvers. The engine’s 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque, available from 1750-2750 rpm, provided adequate pulling power for a fully loaded vehicle. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control compared to the optional DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) available on other Sharan models. However, the gear ratios were somewhat tall, requiring downshifts for steeper inclines or quicker acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 140 hp or 170 hp TDI versions, this variant felt noticeably slower, especially when carrying a full complement of passengers and luggage.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI (115 hp) SCR 7-seat Sharan typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, central locking, a basic audio system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, often denoted by “Trendline” or “Highline” designations, added features such as alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, cruise control, a more advanced audio system with touchscreen display, and climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and various driver assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Sharan II utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality. The suspension was tuned for practicality rather than sporty handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The Sharan’s weight, particularly when fully loaded, placed a significant demand on the braking system, and stopping distances were relatively long compared to lighter vehicles. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Sharan II 2.0 TDI (115 hp) SCR 7-seat model was generally well-received by critics as a practical and spacious family vehicle. However, the 115 hp engine was often criticized for being underpowered, especially when the vehicle was fully loaded. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 42.8 US mpg. Compared to the more powerful TDI variants, this model offered a lower purchase price but sacrificed performance. The 1.9 TDI models of the previous generation Sharan offered similar fuel economy with comparable performance, making them a viable alternative in the used car market.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Sharan II 2.0 TDI (115 hp) SCR 7-seat model remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for families seeking a spacious and relatively affordable MPV. The CFFE engine, while not known for its blistering performance, has proven to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), particularly on vehicles that have primarily been used for short journeys. The SCR system requires regular AdBlue refills, and failure to do so can lead to reduced engine performance. Overall, this Sharan variant represents a sensible and practical choice for those prioritizing space, fuel efficiency, and affordability over outright performance.
