Getting started

While station wagons as such are no longer common, the category has expanded, as a practical matter, to encompass numerous hatchbacks, essentially wagons with a one-piece tailgate. Wagons and hatchbacks are available in a wide range of size and price, from the small budget models to high-end, mostly European luxury cars. Wagons are usually based on some equivalent sedan, sharing the sedan's performance and features while adding utility with a rear gate or hatch and flat-folding rear seats. A few have all-wheel drive and a higher ground clearance that help to make them appealing alternatives to an SUV.

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 also 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 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 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  $15,000.

A step up brings you to a Mazda3, Volkswagen Rabbit, or Subaru Impreza Outback Sport, which have better appointed interiors and still 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 Kia Rondo, Mazda5, or the Volkswagen Jetta wagon, which are more commodious. The VW Passat wagon and Subaru Outback sell 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, are available with all-wheel drive, and retain the upscale packaging and demeanor of their sedan counterparts. The somewhat larger Volvo V70 and all-wheel-drive XC70 offer an especially long menu of safety features.

At the top end of wagons, you'll find the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which  cost about $60,000 and offer a true combination of luxury, performance, and versatility.

See also:

GPS Navigation Systems

Car batteries

Car seats

Special Section:
Guide to Driving Green