If the heart desires long road trips, a reliable ride to drop the kids off at school daily, or merely planning a weekend trip, station wagons are the go-to choice and are universally loved by families. They are built to have ample cabin space for several people while remaining solid and well-built on the outer part. To uncover why, this article highlights the 23 best and somewhat evergreen station wagons that families have trusted for years.
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback has been a family favorite since its introduction in 1994, with over 5 million units sold globally as of 2022. Known for its rugged design and standard all-wheel drive, the Outback features a 2.5L engine that balances power and efficiency. Families love the spacious interior and generous cargo area, perfect for hauling kids’ gear or groceries. Fun fact: the Outback has a reputation for safety and reliability, making it a trusted companion for families on the go, and it has consistently received high safety ratings, including a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Volvo V90
The Volvo V90 has been the ultimate luxury wagon since its launch in 2017. In the year 2020 alone, over 7,000 units of the V90 were sold in the global market. It has a spacious layout and elegantly designed interiors with powerful turbo engines, making it an all-purpose vehicle for families. The V90’s interior space is backed with state-of-the-art technology and high-end finishing for elegance and comfort. Did you know: Volvos have always been, and still are, regarded as safe vehicles due to the many safety features incorporated in them, and so is the V90, which contributes to its five-star Euro NCAP rating.
Toyota Avalon Touring Sport
Despite being classified as a sedan, the space within the Toyota Avalon Touring Sport, particularly its vast trunk, makes the car a good option for families. It does not come as a surprise that the model has done exceptionally well in the market, with over two million Avalons sold in the US alone since 1994. The car’s engine consists of a 3.5L V6, responsible for a comfortable ride and good 31 MPG highway gas consumption. The soft seats and technological advancements make long trips easier for families. Fun Fact: Avalon has always been rated highly in terms of reliability, with JD Power stating that 87% of its users are satisfied.
Ford Focus Wagon
Though discontinued in North America, the Ford Focus Wagon left a lasting legacy as a compact family wagon. By 2019, the total number of units sold was more than six million, which was effective and rewarding. The power produced by the 2.0L engine was sufficient for regular commuting. Fun fact: the Focus Wagon was very drivable, lending itself to round-town fun driving while still being practical for a family, hence its outstanding 5-star rating by Euro NCAP.
Honda Accord Crosstour
The Crosstour, a hybrid sedan and wagon, was introduced in 2010. Over a hundred thousand units were sold of this particular model during its production in the United States. The 3.5L V6 engine generates plenty of power, while the boot space is perfect for a family vacation. Here’s an interesting fact: the Crosstour received accolades for its comfort and reliability, earning a 4 out of 5 rating for owner satisfaction on Consumer Reports.
Audi A4 Avant
The Audi A4 Avant has been a popular choice among families since its introduction in 1994, with more than 1.6 million units sold worldwide. It’s sophisticated design and powerful engine options offer performance and style. Families appreciate the spacious interior and advanced tech features, which are perfect for road trips. Fun fact: Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures that the A4 Avant is ready for weather conditions, keeping families safe and secure—it’s received high praise in numerous automotive reviews for its handling and performance.
Volkswagen Golf SportWagen
The Volkswagen Golf SportWagen has been a beloved choice for families since its debut in 2015, with approximately 300,000 units sold in the US by 2019. Its practical design and spacious cargo area make it perfect for busy family life. The 1.8L turbocharged engine provides peppy performance, while the comfortable interior keeps everyone happy on long drives. Fun fact: the Golf SportWagen is known for its fun-to-drive nature, making errands feel less like a chore, contributing to its high consumer satisfaction ratings.
Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
The Chevrolet Malibu Maxx, introduced in 2004, appealed to families with its hatchback wagon style, which was more of a welcome variation to the hatchback minivans. Selling over 80,000 copies throughout its production years, its design and huge hood made it easy to carry children and their stuff. The 3.5L V6 engine was enough to handle the daily work commute without straining it. Fun fact: In contrast to other mini MPVs, the Malibu Maxx was widely praised due to the unique design of the rear hatch, which is folded for easy access to the requested storage.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon has symbolized luxury and versatility since the late 1990s. With over 400,000 E-Class wagons sold all over the canvas, it has many fans. It’s designed for affluent families who enjoy driving, so they have a powerful engine on offer and exquisitely styled interiors. The cabin is also spacious, coupled with safety systems, making it a perfect vehicle for long-distance travel. Fun fact: the E-Class Wagon offers impressive cargo space, making it a practical choice for families who love to travel.
Chrysler Pacifica
Chrysler Pacifica has emerged as the most desirable minivan crossover that combines the essence of a wagon and an SUV since its introduction in 2016. The claimed sales in the US alone within the first year of Dads are more than two hundred thousand minivans, out of which orders by families reached fifty thousand. Furthermore, a 3.6L V6 engine and a hybrid version are economical power sources for the minivan. With that said, the large seats and flexible design of the interior help families with kids and their gear a lot. Fun fact: the Pacifica was the first minivan ever designed to feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain, which shows that Chrysler can innovate.
Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo
The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo made its way into the luxury wagon segment and changed the history of its idiom when it was introduced in 2017, selling more than 10,000 units worldwide in the first year of its sales. With an impressive suite of engines and jaw-dropping looks, the car attracts even the most stylish and power-hungry families. The larger-than-average cabin is filled with high-quality equipment, guaranteeing comfort while in motion. Fun fact: the Panamera Sport Turismo combines Porsche’s sports car DNA with the practicality of a family vehicle, making it a unique choice for adventurous families.
BMW 3 Series Touring
BMW 3 Series Touring has become a family favorite since its launch in 1982, achieving sales of over one million units worldwide. Any fun or work will result in favorable results thanks to its sporty performance and opulent interior. Variations of turbocharger engines are available for more than enough travel. Here is a fun fact about the 3 Series Touring: It has also been praised for its handling, making it engaging to drive, whether on the highway or the curves of country roads.
Kia Soul
The Kia Soul may be termed a compact utility vehicle, but the upright body shape and roomy interior cater to an in-between option for families: a wagon-type vehicle. Having sold more than 1.5 million units in the US since first appearing in 2009, it is high on driving pleasure but low on fuel consumption. Families appreciate the ample cargo space and quirky design, making it stand out on the road. Fun fact: Kia Soul is known for its vibrant color options, allowing families to express their personalities on the road!
Mazda6 Wagon
The Mazda6 Wagon has sold more than a million units since its inception in 2002. It is elegantly designed, yet it serves its purpose well. Fitted with a 2.5L engine that creates a sporty environment, it is fun for family driving. The layout is good, the seats are comfortable, and there is enough room for luggage. Did you know this? The Mazda 6 has received great reviews due to its appealing design and sporty performance, making it suitable for style-loving and performance-seeking families.
Ford Taurus X
The Ford Taurus X was a midsize crossover that integrated the most attractive characteristics of a wagon and an SUV, selling approximately 80,000 units from 2007 to 2009. Though fitted with a 3.5L V6 Engine, the building was ideal for families, providing a comfortable journey. Besides, the Cabin structure of the family car bemused customers due to its combination of space for people and space for cargo. Fun fact: despite poor sales, the Taurus X was highly rated because of its many safety features and was, therefore, a good vehicle for families.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V, an SUV of compact design, has up to 5 million units sold in the US as of 1995 when it was first introduced. It has become a popular vehicle among families because of its protective nature and its wide space. The 1.5L turbocharged engine provides incredible power and efficiency with an EPA rating of 28 city and 34 highway miles per gallon. Fun fact: CR-V has been one of the top-selling cars in the United States for years, signifying that families love it.
Nissan Juke
The Nissan Juke, while more of a crossover, offers a unique take on the wagon concept. Over 1 million units have been sold globally since its launch in 2010. Its distinctive design and agile handling make it a fun option for adventurous families. The available turbocharged engine provides a lively driving experience. Fun fact: the Juke has a cult following thanks to its quirky style and performance, making it a standout choice for families who dare to be different.
Toyota Prius
Since its launch in 1997, the Toyota Prius has become synonymous with hybrid efficiency, with over 6 million units sold worldwide. With its hatchback design, it offers ample cargo space for families while achieving exceptional fuel economy—up to 54 MPG in the city. Families love the environmentally friendly features and advanced safety technology. Fun fact: the Prius has received numerous awards for its sustainability, solidifying its place as a trusted family vehicle.
Hyundai Tucson
Since its launch in 2004, the Hyundai Tucson has become a household name. As of 2020, more than 1.4 million units had already been sold in the US alone. It has a large cabin and a host of new safety technologies, which is perfect for families. The additional turbocharged engine ensures absolute fun and comfort without having to compromise on fuel economy. Interestingly, the Tucson is distinguished from other vehicles by its remarkably extensive warranty.
Skoda Superb Estate
The Skoda Superb Estate is a large, capable wagon that has been available in Europe since 2001 and has sold more than 500,000 units. It has a chic appearance and a huge trunk that appeals to many parents. The 2.0L TDI engine unit is both economical and powerful. Fun fact: the Superb Estate has been praised for its outstanding value for money, making it a practical choice for families on a budget.
Peugeot 508 SW
The Peugeot 508 SW is another great-looking station wagon hailing from France. This one combines class and functionality perfectly. No wonder over 300,000 units have been sold in the market since 2018. It is perfect for a family wanting a little elegance in their suitcases. The room’s Rear seat and state-of-the-art mounted television services make it well-suited for files on road journeys. Trivia: this rating would make perfect sense to say that the 508 SW has amicably got anomalies because of the design and the way it drives, which makes it good for a stylish family.
Chevrolet Malibu
Chevy Malibu has been soaring high over the American skies ever since it was released in 1964. Within the US market, over ten million units have been sold. It is also well racked internally and comes with soft riding, which makes it an uncompromised family car. The offered engine of 2.0 L turbo has a very suitable power output alongside fuel economy. Malibu has been recognized and awarded for its safety features so many times that it has become safe for even the most delicate families.
Mazda 3 Sport
Since its establishment in 2003, the Mazda 3 Sport as a sports model has coupled athletic agility with real-world sensibility and has sold more than a million units globally. A daring performance with stylish curves in the exterior and refined engines makes it ideal for driving culture-oriented people who happen to be family. The choice has a roomy passenger and luggage space. Fun fact: the Mazda 3 Sport has been praised for its fun-to-drive nature, often topping consumer satisfaction surveys for small cars.
12 Cars That Are Known for Their Unbreakable Reliability — They Just Don’t Quit
Reliability is a core feature that defines a vehicle. Over the last few decades, some vehicles have emerged as a reliable and durable option, standing out as workhorses that never quit. These vehicles not only prove themselves in terms of performance but transcend their role and become reliable partners, always fulfilling their role. Here are 12 Cars known for their unbreakable reliability.
12 Cars That Are Known for Their Unbreakable Reliability — They Just Don’t Quit
