2011 VW Sharan, World's Most Fuel Efficient MPV [Pics Aplenty]

Don't blame us for the title, it is Volkswagen who claims that the new Sharan excels in every single area. To be more precise, Volkswagen says the 2011 Sharan is the world's best in its class with 5.5 l/100km (42.7 mpg) fuel economy. But is that really so?

Well, Volkswagen says it is. The new MPV is 22 centimeters longer (it measures 4.85 meters) but 30 kilos lighter as compared to the previous model, which allowed for a significant increase in fuel efficiency. If we're trusting Volkswagen's statements, Sharan's four direct injection TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines are now up to 21 percent more fuel-efficient than their old counterparts. Specifically, the two TSI configurations develop 150 and 200 horsepower respectively, while the TDIs generate 140 and 170 horsepower, each of them mated to Volkswagen's often praised 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, mostly referred to as DSG.

We won't go too far with Volkswagen's press release, because most of it is actually a long eulogy in which the Sharan is seen as the king of the MPV segment.

But it's worth mentioning that the base version comes with pretty advanced features such as semi-automatic climate control, radio-CD system, mobility tires (self-sealing in case of puncture) plus 7 airbags and ESP. The car is offered in three different trim levels across the globe, Trendline, Comfortline and Highline and is manufactured in Palmela, Portugal.

We'll stop here with the new Sharan but, if you wish, you can spend more time alongside the new MPV by browsing the photo gallery below.