Ford Galaxy vs. Volkswagen Sharan: which is better?
Can't decide which large MPV is right for you? Read our in-depth comparison review of the Ford Galaxy and VW Sharan
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Choosing the ultimate family car isn’t an easy task, especially with the increasing competition between carmakers.
Two of the most popular large MPVs are the Ford Galaxy and Volkswagen Sharan – each spanning more than 15 feet in length, which is about the same as a Giraffe’s height.
They both offer shedloads of practicality, a massive boot (when the rear seats are folded flat) and lots of tech.
Plus, there are plenty of used Ford and used Volkswagen models on the market for cutting costs.
Whether you’ve got a large family or lots of friends, these two bus-like vehicles will get them to where they need to be.
But which is better for you?
Styling
 "Ford Galaxy vs Volkswagen Sharan style")
Like music taste, styling is subjective, and with MPVs it’s even harder to distinguish them because of their standardised boxy shape.
But these two differ more than you may think the longer you look at them.
The Ford Galaxy appears less box-like than the Sharan because of its sloped bonnet and roofline, staying true to Ford’s design language.
Inside and out, it’s very simplistic and straightforward – exactly what you want from a seven-seater MPV that cuts out the faff.
The Volkswagen Sharan, on the other hand, is essentially an elongated VW Golf, offering a similar exterior and interior look but with much more space throughout.
No one is buying an MPV to look cool, that’s a fact – but you do buy one for functionality and the greatest practicality before needing to buy a full-sized bus to ferry around the kids in.
What are they like to drive?
 "Ford Galaxy vs Volkswagen Sharan driving")
When it comes to driving, both cars are incredibly easy to drive because all-round visibility is good and the engines are smooth. The main differences are brand-specific.
The Ford Galaxy has a very similar cabin and driving style to other Ford models such as the Focus and similarly sized S-Max.
What’s particularly nice about the Ford is how quiet it is in and around town, as well as on the motorway. Plus, it can be had with either a manual or automatic transmission.
It’s available with either a petrol or diesel engine, with the 2022 Galaxy only coming as a 2.5-litre petrol engine with hybrid assistance offering 44.1mpg.
We’d recommend the turbocharged petrol engine for most people as it’s economical (34.9mpg) and doesn’t feel sluggish, but if you tend to drive longer distances then the larger diesel unit is the one to have as it returns up to 46.3mpg.
The Volkswagen Sharan is one of the largest vehicles Volkswagen makes, yet it doesn’t feel like it when you’re behind the wheel.
Thanks to its height-adjustable seat and greenhouse-like window design, you can see all other cars around you, making it easy to park and slot yourself into traffic.
It can also be had with petrol and diesel engines that are very frugal and smooth on longer journeys, offering from 31.4-44.8mpg.
Interior and technology
 "Ford Galaxy vs Volkswagen Sharan interior")
Ford’s Galaxy MPV is completely set up for family life throughout. It has seven seats in total that are spilt across three rows, with the middle and rear rows being able to slide and recline.
This is to make getting in and out even easier, meaning there’s enough space for adults in all seats.
The latest generation 2022 generation models come with Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, which has an eight-inch touchscreen as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
If you’re familiar with the interior of a VW Golf or Touran, the Sharan won't feel alien at all. It’s by no means a showstopper, but who would really want swanky leather and wood in a family car that’s going to have young children in it?
All models come as standard with a DAB radio, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and sat-nav. Higher-spec models offer front and rear parking sensors, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof and much more.
Either way, you’re getting a solid family car that’s not short of tech and has comfortable yet functional interiors.
Boot space and practicality
 "Ford Galaxy vs Volkswagen Sharan boot")
Being large MPVs, both cars aren’t short of boot space. The Galaxy gets a 300-litre boot when all seats are erected, but fold down the rear row and this grows to 700 litres.
If you need the maximum space then it can expand to a whopping 2,339 litres when all seats are folded flat.
The Sharan is very similar in size. With all the seats up, you get 300 litres of boot space, but fold down the rear row of seats and you get 711 litres, growing to 2,297 litres when both rear rows have been folded.
This makes both vehicles incredibly versatile, so whether you’re moving house or are doing a large IKEA shop, you shouldn't be short of space.
Both cars are available with ISOFIX child seat fittings in the rear too, so keeping your children safe is easier than ever.
Safety and reliability
 "Ford Galaxy vs Volkswagen Sharan safety")
Speaking of keeping your kids safe, both the Sharan and Galaxy scored highly in their most recent Euro NCAP crash tests.
This is thanks to great safety features such as standard airbags, extra automatic braking, and lane assist systems.
As for reliability, you shouldn’t have any concerns about either car since they’re both modern, well-built family vehicles from two of the world’s best carmakers.
You can also opt for cinchCare if you want to increase overall protection for your vehicle.
Size and dimensions
Ford Galaxy
Length: 4,848mm
Width: 1,916mm
Height: 1,747mm
Boot space: 300-2,339 litres
Volkswagen Sharan
Length: 4,854mm
Width: 1,904mm
Height: 1.720mm
Boot space: 300-2,297mm
Verdict: Ford Galaxy vs Volkswagen Sharan: which should you buy?
If you’ve read our full comparison article and are still unsure which family MPV is for you, perhaps our short verdict will help guide you in the right direction.
Being the more modern of the two, the Galaxy is the one to have if you’re a tech fanatic. But even if you’re not, it’s great for those who need that little extra boot space. Sure, it’s only 42 litres larger, but that makes a difference.
The Sharan’s boxier shape may appeal to you if you’re concerned about parking. This makes it incredibly easy to manoeuvre and the high driving position makes you feel more at ease on the road.
Plus, you’re still getting copious amounts of boot space and overall practicality.
No matter which you choose then, you aren’t going to find yourself wanting more seats or storage space. And if you are, then we’re afraid to say the next step up is a minibus.