The station wagon, once a staple of American car culture, has largely fallen out of favor in recent years. However, with the rise of SUVs and crossovers, these boxy vehicles are making a comeback. In this showdown, we put three wagons to the test: the Audi A6, BMW 525i Touring, and Volvo 850 Turbo.
Audi's entry in this class is the A6 wagon, which boasts four-wheel drive and seating for seven passengers. With a starting price of $36,228, it's a solid value proposition. The A6's independent suspension and American-made Torsen-based full-time four-wheel drive make it a formidable handler on both dry roads and snowy mountain passes.
The BMW 525i Touring is a more premium option, with a starting price of $40,017. While its rear-drive layout makes it less capable in snowy conditions than the Audi A6, its smooth engine and precise handling make it a joy to drive on dry roads. However, its lofty sticker price and limited interior space may be a turn-off for some buyers.
The Volvo 850 Turbo is the most affordable option, with a starting price of $34,490. Despite its lower price point, it packs a punch with its turbocharged inline-five engine and quick acceleration. Its front-wheel-drive layout makes it less capable in snowy conditions than the Audi A6, but its spacious interior and functional cargo area make it a great choice for families or road trippers.
On paper, all three wagons have impressive performance numbers. The Volvo 850 Turbo is the fastest, with a top speed of 144 mph. The BMW 525i Touring is close behind, with a top speed of 128 mph. The Audi A6 is slightly slower, but its four-wheel drive system gives it an advantage in snowy conditions.
In terms of interior space and comfort, all three wagons are strong contenders. The Volvo 850 Turbo has the roomiest rear seat and most functional cargo area, making it a great choice for families or road trippers. The BMW 525i Touring has a more premium feel inside, with high-quality materials and precise handling. The Audi A6 is comfortable and practical, but its interior design is slightly less impressive than its rivals.
Ultimately, the winner of this showdown depends on your priorities. If you need four-wheel drive capability and a spacious interior, the Audi A6 is the way to go. If you're looking for a more premium driving experience and don't mind sacrificing some interior space, the BMW 525i Touring is worth considering. And if you're on a budget and want a wagon that still packs a punch, the Volvo 850 Turbo is a great choice.
The Audi A6 won this showdown with its impressive performance numbers, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, the Volvo 850 Turbo was a close second, with its turbocharged engine and functional cargo area making it a great choice for families or road trippers. The BMW 525i Touring rounded out the field, with its smooth engine and precise handling making it a joy to drive on dry roads.
In conclusion, these three wagons offer a unique blend of performance, comfort, and practicality. Whether you're looking for four-wheel drive capability, a premium driving experience, or a budget-friendly option, there's something for everyone in this class.
These three wagons offer a unique blend of performance, comfort, and practicality.
