The original Sharan was launched in August 1995, and was available with five engine choices:
*The 2.8 VR6 model had the option of Syncro all-wheel drive.

The design and technology of the Sharan (including Alhambra and Galaxy) was a mix between both Volkswagen and Ford.
The design was a compromise solution, with the front looking similar to a Ford Mondeo Mk1 and the rear like Volkswagen Passat (B4).
Each of the three MPV models had its own subtle differences in exterior, and, for the Galaxy, in interior design.
The first generation's initial design was completed under Greg M Greeson, an American designer employed in Volkswagen's Advanced Design Studio in Düsseldorf, West Germany from 1989 to 1990.

Some small visual changes in 1998 included new door wings derived from the Volkswagen Golf Mk4 and some changes in the dashboard.

The Sharan received a EuroNCAP three star safety rating when it was tested in 1999.

Awards
1999 Auto Express New Car Honours – Best MPV
1998 Top Gear Magazine Top Cars – Best People Carrier (Joint Winner)
1996 What Car Awards – Best People Carrier (Joint Winner)
1996 Auto Express Awards – Best People Carrier (Joint Winner)
The original Sharan was launched in August 1995, and was available with five engine choices:
*The 2.8 VR6 model had the option of Syncro all-wheel drive.
The design and technology of the Sharan (including Alhambra and Galaxy) was a mix between both Volkswagen and Ford. The design was a compromise solution, with the front looking similar to a Ford Mondeo Mk1 and the rear like Volkswagen Passat (B4). Each of the three MPV models had its own subtle differences in exterior, and, for the Galaxy, in interior design. The first generation's initial design was completed under Greg M Greeson, an American designer employed in Volkswagen's Advanced Design Studio in Düsseldorf, West Germany from 1989 to 1990.
Some small visual changes in 1998 included new door wings derived from the Volkswagen Golf Mk4 and some changes in the dashboard.
The Sharan received a EuroNCAP three star safety rating when it was tested in 1999.
Awards
1999 Auto Express New Car Honours – Best MPV
1998 Top Gear Magazine Top Cars – Best People Carrier (Joint Winner)
1996 What Car Awards – Best People Carrier (Joint Winner)
1996 Auto Express Awards – Best People Carrier (Joint Winner)
Volkswagen Sharan