The station wagon, also known as a beach wagon or simply a wagon, is a car body style featuring a two-box design and a spacious storage area. In general, wagons tend to be more fuel-efficient compared to their SUV counterparts due to their aerodynamic design. They also offer more cargo space when compared to hatchbacks or sedans.
In essence, station wagons stand out in terms of practicality, luxury, efficiency and excellent drivability. While they may not be everyone’s first choice, their popularity has waned in recent decades, much like sedans, mainly due to the increasing preference for SUVs.
Nevertheless, station wagons continue to possess considerable appeal and hold a special place in our hearts. Let’s go through the reasons for buying a station wagon in detail.
Advantages of Buying a Station Wagon Car
Let’s go through the benefits of buying a station wagon.
Stylish Design
Modern station wagons come with stylish designs, combining the convenience of extra space with contemporary aesthetics.
Versatile Cargo Space
To begin with, wagons are incredibly versatile. While modern car-based SUVs also offer versatility, station wagons stand out by providing ample interior space and a lower lift-over height compared to their competitors. This means loading cargo into their spacious area is easier, as you don’t have to lift it as high.
Wagons offer extra cargo space. This makes them well-suited for families and road trips. Additionally, some station wagons come equipped with rear-facing seats, providing extra passenger-carrying capacity when needed.
For instance, the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen is a station wagon that provides the practicality of a wagon with the familiar features of the Volkswagen Golf, offering a balance of performance and utility. Here is a list of Volkswagen for sale in the UAE.
Irrespective of the car’s body type, here are some easy ways to maximise the storage space in your car’s trunk.
Dynamics
Station wagons have a lower height compared to crossovers, resulting in a lower centre of gravity. This design contributes to more convenient vehicle handling. When navigating a corner, a station wagon is likely to respond more quickly and in a more connected manner than a less agile utility vehicle.
Simply put, the design of station wagons has a lower load height compared to SUVs, making it easier to load and unload items.
For instance, the Volvo V60 Cross Country is considered a station wagon. It’s a variant of the Volvo V60 model that features a higher ground clearance, all-wheel drive and rugged styling elements. While it maintains the design dynamics of a station wagon, the Cross Country model is enhanced for versatility and can handle a variety of terrains. Here is a list of Volvo Cars for sale in the UAE including station wagons.
Fuel Efficiency
In many instances, station wagons are known for their superior fuel efficiency compared to larger SUVs or minivans, leading to long-term cost savings.
Their advantage extends to having more of their mass positioned closer to the ground, coupled with lower and sleeker bodies that create smaller air resistance. This aerodynamic edge is particularly beneficial for fuel economy when compared to crossovers. Besides, here are some useful ways to save fuel.
Furthermore, station wagons generally weigh less, contributing to reduced fuel consumption. These vehicles are not only exceptionally fuel-efficient but also boast substantial torque. Here are some habits for fuel-efficient driving.
Capability
If you prioritise capability, wagons are more than willing to meet your needs. You don’t have to exclusively opt for a car-based utility vehicle or an SUV to ensure confidence in foul weather. Numerous wagons offer the option of traction-enhancing all-wheel drive, exemplified by models like the stylish and luxurious 2024 Audi A4 Allroad model. For other models, here is a list of used Audi A4 cars for sale in the UAE.
Car-Like Driving Experience
This is also among the various reasons for buying station wagons. These vehicles often share platforms with sedans, providing a smoother and more car-like driving experience compared to larger vehicles.
All-Wheel Drive Options
Some station wagon models come with all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Family-Friendly Features
Many station wagons are designed with families in mind, offering features like rear-facing seats, panoramic sunroofs and advanced safety technologies.
Easier Parking
The generally more compact size of station wagons can make them easier to park and manoeuvre in urban environments compared to larger vehicles.
A Niche Choice
Opting for a station wagon can be a unique choice, standing out from the more common sedan or SUV options on the road. That said, if you prefer a sedan, here are the reasons for buying sedans. Those interested in SUVs can go through the reasons for buying SUVs.
Uniqueness
Lastly, one of the most convincing reasons to buy a station wagon is its uniqueness. Not everyone opts for this type of vehicle, offering you the opportunity to stand out from the crowd by choosing to have one in your garage. Don’t hesitate to embrace these spacious and highly functional vehicles; make your choice distinctive and drive a station wagon.
Differences between SUVs and Station Wagons
Station wagons have a lower ground clearance and sleeker designs. Plus, they are smaller in size when compared with SUVs. Built on a car platform, station wagons offer a smoother, car-like driving experience and are well-suited for on-road handling.
They are often chosen for their fuel efficiency, stylish aesthetics and suitability for urban or suburban environments. While SUVs project a more rugged image associated with adventure, station wagons are often perceived as family-oriented with a focus on a streamlined and functional design.
Differences between Sedans and Station Wagons
Sedans typically have a compact and streamlined structure with four doors and a separate trunk compartment. In contrast, station wagons feature a longer and more elongated body, often incorporating a rear hatch for increased cargo space.
Station wagons are known for their versatility, offering ample room for luggage, groceries, or larger items with the option to fold down rear seats. While sedans are chosen for their efficiency and urban appeal, station wagons provide a practical solution for those seeking a balance between the elegance of a sedan and the additional cargo capacity of an SUV or minivan.
FAQs
What is the difference between SUVs and Station Wagons?
SUVs and station wagons differ primarily in their body styles, size and intended use.
What is the difference between Sedans and Station Wagons?
Sedans and station wagons, both common car body types, differ primarily in their design and cargo capacity.
What are the advantages of owning a station wagon for families?
Families often appreciate station wagons for their ample cargo space, comfortable seating and family-friendly features, making them ideal for road trips and daily commuting.
Do station wagons have all-wheel drive options?
Yes, many station wagons come with the option for all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability, especially in varying weather conditions.
Why should you buy a Station Wagon?
Station wagons have more cargo space, are usually more fuel efficient and offer a car-like driving experience.
Those were some important reasons for buying a station wagon. If you are looking to buy one, go through these used cars for sale in the UAE including station wagons. Explore the differences between hatchback vs station wagons if you are contemplating the purchase of these two body types.
Besides, those interested in buying a hatchback or sedan can go through this detailed analysis of hatchback vs sedans.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more on various car body types and their benefits.
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