Getting started - Station wagon guide

Large, wood-sided station wagons are a thing of the past, but the concept lives on in a small number of practical wagons, luxury wagons, and several small hatchbacks. Wagons are usually based on an equivalent sedan, sharing the sedan's performance and features while adding utility with a rear liftgate and flat-folding rear seats. Some have all-wheel drive available and a higher ground clearance that help to make them appealing alternatives to an SUV, such as the Subaru Outback and Volvo XC70.

Why buy a wagon or hatchback?

Wagons and some hatchbacks combine the cargo-carrying flexibility of a small or midsized SUV with the comfort, fuel economy, handling, and performance of a sedan. Even a small, two-door hatchback can provide a lot of cargo room for its size.

Key things to consider

When looking for a wagon, consider the type of driving you do, the climate and/or road conditions, how much power is necessary, how much cargo you will be carrying, and how many people you will be likely to transport. Fuel economy and price are also factors, as wagons are more fuel efficient than SUVs and many models come at a more affordable sticker price, saving you money at time of purchase and later at the pump.

The powertrain for wagons usually ranges from a small-displacement four-cylinder to a more powerful six-cylinder engine, although V8s are available in a limited number of sporty and luxury models. Small, budget vehicles can exceed 30 mpg overall in fuel economy, but larger models only hit the high teens. Some models, particularly luxury vehicles, have good fit and finish and extra features such as a telescoping steering wheel, automatic climate control, and power seats.  Most wagons are available with a full complement of safety equipment. Stability control, side and side-curtain air bags, and antilock brakes are all common and highly recommended.

The most practical strategy is to seek a hatchback or wagon that meets your requirements without buying more car than you need. Consider starting with our lists of Recommended wagons and working your way up the line from the smallest and least costly.

Find out how Consumer Reports can help you to choose the best wagon for your needs.

What you'll spend

You can buy a budget car with hatchback versatility and excellent fuel economy in models such as the Honda Fit or Nissan Versa for about  $16,000.

A step up brings you to a Mazda3, Subaru Impreza Outback Sport, or Volkswagen Golf, which have better-appointed interiors and good fuel economy for the class with prices in the upper teens to the low $20,000 range. At a similar price point, you can choose the mini-minivan Mazda5 or the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen, which are more commodious. The Subaru Outback sells in the upper $20,000 range and offer a good balance of room and price.

Sporty wagons like the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series sell in the low $40,000 range. They are available with all-wheel drive and retain the upscale packaging and sporty demeanor of their sedan counterparts. The larger Volvo XC70 offers a true alternative to upscale SUVs.

At the top end of wagons, you'll find the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which costs about $60,000 and offers a true combination of luxury, performance, and versatility.

See also:

GPS

Car batteries

Tires

Car seats