2005 Mazda6 Sport Wagon Click image for larger view
Mazda6: All-new
in 2004, this midsize car offers a stylish station wagon with more
than 33 cubic feet of cargo room as well as space to accommodate five
passengers. There's a standard 220-horsepower three-liter V6 in wagon
models, connected to a sporty five-speed manual transmission. A six-speed
automatic is optional. The interior is well appointed and there's
a long list of standard equipment, including steering-wheel-mounted
audio controls, cruise control and power windows, mirrors and locks.
Priced at about $24,000 for the base S model, the Mazda6 wagon is
a sensible alternative to similarly priced minivans and compact SUVs.
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2005 Impreza RS Click image for larger view
Subaru Impreza: It's
hard to fault the overall utility of an Impreza RS wagon. It has
all-wheel drive for improved control in slippery conditions, sporty
styling and a wide range of trim and performance levels. There's
a more rugged Outback version for buyers who wisely don't want
to spring for the more expensive, full-blown Outback model. And
for performance junkies, there's the 227-horsepower turbo WRX
version, though it may be hard to get one for under $25,000. But
getting into an Impreza wagon for considerably less than $25,000
won't be hard if buyers stick to the other models. Prices for
the RS model start at about $19,000.
2005 Scion xB Click image for larger view
Scion xB: OK, this
may seem to be an odd choice, but if you can get past the styling
that makes this Toyota-built wagon look from the front like an
angry toaster, this boxy wagon fills all the specifications for
a station wagon nicely at less than $15,000. It has more than
21 cubic feet of cargo space and can comfortably haul four people.
Performance is tepid, but the handling is solid. And driving one
will make you the envy of most teenagers in your neighborhood.
