Best Used Station Wagons

The rise of the SUV has led to the death of the station wagon. But for those still looking to buy the best used station wagons, there are still some excellent options on the market.
Written by Kerry Gibson
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
Before the rise of the SUV, or older yet, the minivan, car buyers used to rely on the multipurpose station wagon. Certain manufacturers like Subaru, Audi, and Volvo still produce them today. But if you’re buying on a budget, here are some of the best
used
station wagons.
Best described as an elongated hatchback, a station wagon easily navigates city and country alike. The storage capacity is unparalleled, whether it’s used for pets, kids, or camping gear. Fill it up and hit the road for a National Lampoon’s Vacation of your own!

The best used station wagons from Europe

Those seeking a sporty station wagon with seating for five will appreciate the Volkswagen Golf. The 2019 model is available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. Enjoy the sunroof, rearview camera, and heated front seats.
The Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen was an elongated version of the Golf hatchback. Critics recommend model years 2015 through 2018 to maximize your value for money. Buyers may need to pay a little extra for all-wheel drive since front-wheel drive came standard. It’s equipped with a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder motor that makes 170 hp.
Looking for a modern upgrade? The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack was introduced in 2017. It comes with all-wheel drive, a larger 14.5 gallon fuel tank, and 30 cu-ft of cargo space.
Considered one of the best used station wagons for a long time running is the compact Volvo V60, or its rugged sibling, the Volvo V60 Cross Country. The latter comes standard with all-wheel drive and a higher price tag. Both models pair a turbocharged four-cylinder engine to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The all-wheel drive Audi Allroad does not disappoint when it comes to cabin comfort and technology. Those with a bigger budget will enjoy standard heated seats, real wood trim, three-zone climate control, and LATCH connectors for child seats. It has about 24 cu-ft of storage space and a sleek profile.
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The best used station wagons from Asia

A rare find, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon was only sold from 2011 to 2014. This variation on the popular TSX sedan sells for around $15,000 with 100,000 miles. It has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired to a five-speed automatic transmission. It’s front-wheel drive with 201 hp.
The Honda Crosstour was initially marketed as the Accord Crosstour in 2010 and 2011, since it was based on the brand’s sedan. It offers an elongated roof, all-wheel drive, and raised ride height. The V6 is capable of 271 hp, but a four-cylinder is also available, according to
Autotrader
.
No one is surprised to find the legendary Subaru Outback on a list of best used station wagons. This taller variation of the Legacy sedan is both efficient and functional. Owners will enjoy the standard all-wheel drive and roof rail system on this off-reading five-seater.
At 32.5 cu-ft, it has more cargo room than most midsize SUVs. Newer Outback models are equipped with a rearview camera, infotainment system, and special driving modes for navigating mud, snow, or ice.
Those who like the spaciousness of a wagon, but prefer SUV styling, will be interested in the Subaru Crosstrek. It’s available as an electric plug-in hybrid, or with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The 2020 model is all-wheel drive and has folding rear seats with a 60/40 split, the perfect feature for hauling bulky sporting equipment.
At 41 mpg, the Toyota Prius V is the most fuel-efficient wagon you’ll find for $15,000. The 34 cu-ft of cargo space grows to 67 cu-ft with the second row folded down. This is more spacious than the Prius hatchback. Buyers be warned that this model was popular amongst taxi drivers, so look for signs of abuse and wear.
Another best used station wagon contender from the same automaker is the Toyota Venza. Known as a hybrid midsize SUV now, its first iteration shared a platform with the Camry. It’s all-wheel drive and comes with your choice of a four-cylinder or V6 engine.
The Scion xB is a distant relative of the aforementioned Toyota wagons. Its boxy and commanding exterior is uncommon, leaving only 11 cu-ft of cargo space behind the seats. Its final production year was 2015 but even then it was equipped with remote keyless entry and a backup camera. Automatic and manual transmissions were available.
The Kia Soul also has similar sharp styling and was redesigned in 2020. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine has multi-point injection. The base trim comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission.

The best used station wagons from America

Those seeking a plug-in hybrid option will appreciate the Ford C-Max Energi. It seats five and is styled like a compact SUV. The leather-trimmed seats add a touch of luxury, and the rear seat that splits 60/40 maximizes cargo space. The last production year for this model was 2018. Those wanting to forego the plug-in option can settle for the Ford C-Max hybrid model.
The Buick Regal TourX is the best used station wagon for those seeking a touch of elegance, according to
CarMax
. A 2020 model is equipped with noise-canceling technology, keyless start, and dual-zone climate control. Owners will also enjoy the 2.0-liter turbo engine with 250 hp and all-wheel drive.

Insurance for your station wagon

The best used station wagons combine the practicality of an SUV with the efficiency of a sedan. They are an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile car that moves from commuting to road tripping with ease.
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