Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[How many other cars does it take to kill a Volvo?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/how-many-other-cars-does-it-take-to-kill-a-volvo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/how-many-other-cars-does-it-take-to-kill-a-volvo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/27/how-many-other-cars-does-it-take-to-kill-a-volvo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We all know how safe Volvo cars are, but a European junkyard has decided to put it to the test by crashing, jumping and rolling the life out of an 850 wagon. While government tests use automated systems to crash new cars, the guys in this video do so with a driver behind the wheel. Aside from what looks like a safety harness and roll bar for the driver, it seems like this car is otherwise bone stock.

Not wanting to spoil the fun for you, we'll just point out that at the start of the video, our hero car looks pretty flawless, and by the end, well, let's just say the Craigslist ad for the car would say "needs some body work." Check out the video below to watch some stunts that even the Duke Boys might shy away from.

Continue reading How many other cars does it take to kill a Volvo?

How many other cars does it take to kill a Volvo? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>850crash teststation wagonstupid car tricksvideovideosvolvoThu, 27 Dec 2012 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20411403/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/27/how-many-other-cars-does-it-take-to-kill-a-volvo/20411403/article-detail.xml 20411403 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/volvo-850-flying_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/volvo-850-flying.jpg <![CDATA[Honda confirms Civic Wagon for Europe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/honda-confirms-civic-wagon-for-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/honda-confirms-civic-wagon-for-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/honda-confirms-civic-wagon-for-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Honda CEO Takanobu Ito already confirmed that the Civic Type R will be making a return in 2015, and today at the Paris Motor Show, Honda's European president, Manabu Nishimae, announced another new Civic variant is being added into the mix with a new wagon-style model. Throughout the press release, Honda puts quotation marks over the word wagon, but based on the design sketch, it will indeed have more of a station wagon look to it compared to the current Euro-spec Civic hatchback.

Just going off what we can see in Honda's teaser image, the biggest change appears to be the longer, flatter roofline and the more upright D-pillar. Most of the sketch matches up with the current Civic on sale in Europe from the short, sloped hood to the hidden rear door handles, but behind the rear doors is where all the changes will be made. Honda says this sketch is a glimpse at a concept car that we will be seeing at some point next year.

The Civic hasn't offered a station wagon body style in the U.S. since its fourth generation (1987 through 1991 model years), but just like the Type R, the Civic Wagon will be a Europe-only affair.

Continue reading Honda confirms Civic Wagon for Europe

Honda confirms Civic Wagon for Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 05:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda civic station wagon2013 honda civic station wagon conceptciviccivic station wagoncivic wagonhondastation wagonFri, 28 Sep 2012 05:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20335608/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/28/honda-confirms-civic-wagon-for-europe/20335608/article-detail.xml 20335608 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/honda-civic-wgn-teaser-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/honda-civic-wgn-teaser-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford debuts familiar all-new Mondeo, shows wagon version [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-debuts-familiar-all-new-mondeo-shows-wagon-version-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-debuts-familiar-all-new-mondeo-shows-wagon-version-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/ford-debuts-familiar-all-new-mondeo-shows-wagon-version-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Ford showed the world its all-new Mondeo in Amsterdam today, alerting Europeans that a new "flagship" for the Blue Oval brand has arrived. The new Ford, a lookalike of the Fusion model available here in the United States, makes its European debut with flavors of powertrain and body style that will be unique to its target market.

First and foremost (to our car-geek eyes) is the five-door wagon variant that you see here. The Mondeo wagon retains the angular front-third from the sedan version, but tacks a rather long and useful-looking cargo space on to the back of the vehicle. The result, at least from some vantage points, isn't the most elegant load-lugger we've yet seen, but it is certainly prepared handle small-family needs in a way that a sedan just can't match.

The Mondeo will be available with Ford's 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, as well as with a hybrid-electric powertrain making use of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder motor. The HEV powerplant is the first such for a European Ford product, and will be available on the sedan only, to start. The company states that Mondeo will see a diesel-powered, all-wheels-driven version for the first time ever, though no timing is offered for this model.

Other niceties like SYNC, MyFord Touch, a panoramic roof and adaptive LED headlights will be available, too, causing Ford reps to gush that this Mondeo is "the most premium" model they've offered to date.

If Ford were to offer a Fusion wagon here in the U.S., ladies and gentlemen, this is what it would look like. Sadly, as ever, the wagon is a Euro-only treat. That said, cast your vote in our poll below and let us know if you'd actually buy a Fusion wagon if Ford were to ever offer one in the States.


View Poll

Continue reading Ford debuts familiar all-new Mondeo, shows wagon version [w/poll]

Ford debuts familiar all-new Mondeo, shows wagon version [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Sep 2012 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fusion2013 ford mondeo2013 ford mondeo wagonfordford europefusionmondeomondeo wagonmy ford touchstation wagonsyncwagonThu, 06 Sep 2012 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20317616/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/06/ford-debuts-familiar-all-new-mondeo-shows-wagon-version-w-poll/20317616/article-detail.xml 20317616 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-ford-mondeo-wagon-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-ford-mondeo-wagon-628.jpg <![CDATA[Station Wagons: The Documentary?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/station-wagons-the-documentary/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/station-wagons-the-documentary/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/station-wagons-the-documentary/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It's no secret that the Autoblog corporate offices are teeming with station wagon fans. Give us the choice between a 1965 Buick SportWagon and a brand new Ferrari, and, well, we'll choose the Ferrari every time. But we still like the wagons.

So with excitement we watched the trailer (video available below) for "Wagonmasters," a documentary by a couple of Wake Forest University students covering the iconic American station wagon. The trailer begins with shots of a 1966 Pontiac GTO wagon, which, despite its absolute hotness, was never actually built by GM. The white-hot grocery-getter looks to be a GTO wagon recreation owned by Rocky Boyles in Raleigh, N.C.

It's an easily forgiven blooper that hopefully doesn't portend a disappointing documentary. A little less easily overlooked is an uncredited quote used in the trailer that says, "The wagon is a thing of the past and I doubt will ever be produced again." How about the Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon? BMW 328i Sports Wagon? VW Jetta Sportwagen?

The documentary's official website says the film "offers glimpses into the lives of such wagon enthusiasts, and tells the story of the station wagon as it represents a changing America over the last one hundred years." Despite the possibility of flaws, we'll hold our final judgement until after the film is screened July 28 at this year's Concours d'Elegance of America in Plymouth, Mich.

Continue reading Station Wagons: The Documentary?

Station Wagons: The Documentary? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jun 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concours delegance of americadocumentarygto+safarigto+wagongtosafarigtowagonstation wagonvideowagonmasterswagonswake forest universitywake+forest+movie+about+station+wagonswakeforestmovieaboutstationwagonsThu, 21 Jun 2012 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20261076/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/21/station-wagons-the-documentary/20261076/article-detail.xml 20261076 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/wagonmasters-grab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/wagonmasters-grab.jpg <![CDATA[2013 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon unveiled, bound for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/2013-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-unveiled-is-u-s-bound/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/2013-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-unveiled-is-u-s-bound/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/2013-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-unveiled-is-u-s-bound/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon

The wagon is not dead! BMW has unveiled the latest 3 Series Sports Wagon and announced that it will again be available to U.S. customers. The new long-roof 3 goes on sale in Europe later this year as the 328i, 330d, and 320d Touring. U.S. customers need to wait until Spring 2013 for the 3 Series Sports Wagon to arrive in showrooms, and powertrain details for our market have not yet been announced. The current 3 Series wagon is only offered as the 328i here in the U.S. (with and without xDrive).

The new car is larger than the current model, and boasts 10 percent more cargo volume according to BMW. As with the 3 Series sedan, the wagon will be available in Sport, Luxury, and Modern lines, as well as an M Sport Line, each with a unique approach to their interior and exterior trim.

Inside, the back seats have a 40:20:40 split and the cargo space offers plenty of room (as you can see in the photos). There's also hidden storage, a standard partition net, and if the cargo cover isn't in use, it can be stowed under the cargo floor for added convenience.

Amenities include an available power tailgate that, with the optional Comfort Access package, becomes a hands-free power tailgate; you just wave your foot under the bumper à la 2013 Ford Escape. Naturally, BMW will offer its full complement of tech and driver aids, like BMW Apps, a color HUD, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, BMW Parking Assistant, Rear-view Camera with Top View, and the BMW Assist telematics service.

So, the good news: There's a new 3 Series wagon. The bad news: You need to wait a year. But that's better than no wagon at all, right?

Continue reading 2013 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon unveiled, bound for U.S.

2013 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon unveiled, bound for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 May 2012 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 bmw 3 series3 series3 series touring328i335ibmwnewsports wagonstation wagonwagonSat, 12 May 2012 20:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20237022/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/12/2013-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-unveiled-is-u-s-bound/20237022/article-detail.xml 20237022 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/133serieswagon31628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/133serieswagon31628.jpg <![CDATA[Chevrolet Cruze station wagon unveiled ahead of Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevrolet Cruze Station Wagon

This is the new Chevy Cruze station wagon, which will debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show and then arrive in European showrooms this summer. At 184 inches, it's longer than both the Cruze sedan and hatchback (by three and seven inches, respectively).

Inside, there's 17.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats up, and up to 52.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. Drivers will get to choose from a range of gasoline (1.6, 1.8, and 1.4T) and diesel (1.7 and 2.0) powertrains, and the long-roof Cruze arrives with Chevy MyLink available.

Australians will get a Holden-badged version, but as for us? Sorry, guys. Don't expect anything in the near future. Chevrolet spokesman Michael Albano says, "No plans on bringing the wagon to US at this point. But we'll continue to evaluate market as needed."

The official press announcement is pasted after the jump, and you can click on the image above to see a larger version.

Continue reading Chevrolet Cruze station wagon unveiled ahead of Geneva

Chevrolet Cruze station wagon unveiled ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchevroletchevycruzeestategmholdenstation wagonwagonThu, 09 Feb 2012 09:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167995/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/20167995/article-detail.xml 20167995 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/cruzewagonsmall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/cruzewagonsmall.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: '64 Ford Falcon "Tiki Taxi"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

1964 Ford Falcon Squire

All summer, I make it a point to hit the local cruise nights, and while there are plenty of regulars on hand week to week, a few cars make just one appearance and vanish. Way back in May, the car you see above, a surf-themed 1964 Ford Falcon Squire dubbed "Tiki Taxi", showed up. Immediately smitten, I snapped a bunch of photos, all of which are now gallerized here. Good thing, because the car never materialized again.

Fast-forward to today. Turns out, the "Tiki Taxi" is for sale. The coolest '64 Falcon station wagon in the known universe has a 289, three on the floor, and a JVC cassette deck to play your Martin Denny tapes during the ride to Trader Vic's. Current high bid (as of post time) is $6,600, and you still have two days to get in on the action. Check out the photo gallery to see just how beautifully turned out this wagon really is. You can also download full-resolution shots here.

eBay Find of the Day: '64 Ford Falcon "Tiki Taxi" originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1964auctioncustomebayfalconfor salefordkustomsquirestation wagonsurf themedtiki taxiwagonSat, 14 Jan 2012 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148846/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/20148846/article-detail.xml 20148846 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/tikitaxianunez628hero_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/tikitaxianunez628hero.jpg <![CDATA[Overseas-only Chrysler 300C wagon killed off]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/overseas-only-chrysler-300c-wagon-killed-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/overseas-only-chrysler-300c-wagon-killed-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/overseas-only-chrysler-300c-wagon-killed-off/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2007 Chrysler 300C SRT8 Touring

Well, we can all stop hoping for a new Dodge Magnum.

Chrysler-Lancia CEO Saad Chebab told Autocar that there will be no Touring version of the redesigned Chrysler 300 built for Europe, saying that wagon sales in the U.S. are not robust enough to justify development costs for a five-door version of the platform. If Europe isn't getting a Chrysler wagon, we certainly aren't going to see a Dodge version here.

The previous-generation Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 both spawned wagon variants, the Dodge Magnum for the U.S. market and the Chrysler 300 Touring overseas. The Magnum was never a hot seller, though it had its fans - ourselves included - and Autocar says the 300 wagon was popular both in the U.K. and on mainland Europe.

But with Fiat calling the shots now and post-bankruptcy budgets at Chrysler still tight, we're guessing any money that could have been spent putting a new Magnum on the road went elsewhere. Like rebadging the 300 and other Chryslers as Lancias.

Overseas-only Chrysler 300C wagon killed off originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Oct 2011 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler 300 touringchrysler 300c touringdodgedodge magnumfiatlanciastation wagonwagonSun, 23 Oct 2011 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20087611/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/23/overseas-only-chrysler-300c-wagon-killed-off/20087611/article-detail.xml 20087611 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2007-chrysler-300c-srt8-touring-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2007-chrysler-300c-srt8-touring-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Buick Regal Wagon spotted naked and unashamed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/buick-regal-wagon-spotted-naked-and-unashamed/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/buick-regal-wagon-spotted-naked-and-unashamed/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/27/buick-regal-wagon-spotted-naked-and-unashamed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Buick Regal Wagon spy shots
Buick Regal wagon spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

One year ago, a Buick Regal wagon was deemed "unlikely." However, General Motors is reportedly looking to expand the Regal lineup, not just with a rumored coupe, but with the estate seen here. Sources within GM say that the Regal wagon could debut as early as the end of this year, making it a 2012 model year vehicle.

In addition to these live photos (note the "turbo" script on its rump), our spies are offering up a rendering of what the production version of the Regal Wagon could look like, complete with the larger 19-inch wheels from the Regal Turbo sedan. If produced, the Regal wagon would aim squarely at the recently introduced Acura TSX Sport Wagon.

If the Regal wagon is indeed set to debut this year, the Los Angeles Auto Show is probably a safe bet. We'll keep our ears to the ground for more details in the coming months.

Buick Regal Wagon spotted naked and unashamed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 buick regalbuickbuick regalgmregalspy photosspy picsspy shotsstation wagonwagonMon, 27 Jun 2011 13:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19977540/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/27/buick-regal-wagon-spotted-naked-and-unashamed/19977540/article-detail.xml 19977540 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-buick-regal-wagon-spy-shots630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-buick-regal-wagon-spy-shots630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Officially Official: Volvo V60 sports wagon gets (surprisingly) rockin' intro [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/05/officially-official-volvo-v60-sports-wagon-gets-surprisingly/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/05/officially-official-volvo-v60-sports-wagon-gets-surprisingly/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/05/officially-official-volvo-v60-sports-wagon-gets-surprisingly/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


2011 Volvo V60 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Volvo has just sauntered into the battle to convince the world that wagons are as cool as they are functional with a new launch video for the company's very sexy V60 long-roof. The car's hobbies appear to be rocking out across the open desert and hustling family and cargo across town in a hurry. Globally, the company is offering a number of engines in the V60, including a new 2.0-liter direct-injected four with around 203 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Sadly, we wouldn't exactly hold your breath waiting for that one to show up on this side of the world.

But all may not yet be lost - Volvo has been kind enough to supply the car with a turbo 3.0-liter T6 with 304 Swedish ponies and 324 lb-ft of torque - a powertrain that sounds more like what the automaker might consider for North America (if indeed it gets the nod at all). In either case, the blown six-pot would would no doubt have us double-checking to make sure our groceries are secured. With that kind of grunt, Volvo says the wagon will scoot up to 60 mph in a scant 6.6 seconds. All-wheel drive is standard, and the only gearbox available on the T6 is the company's six-speed automatic. Volvo will offer no less than eight different engines in the V60, so it's hard telling exactly which will show up here in the States should the time come.

Until then, the company has given us one sweet launch video and a bevy of images to drool over. Be sure to hit the jump for the press release and to check out the short flick after you roll through the high-res gallery.


Gallery: 2011 Volvo V60


[Source: Volvo]

Continue reading Officially Official: Volvo V60 sports wagon gets (surprisingly) rockin' intro [w/video]

Officially Official: Volvo V60 sports wagon gets (surprisingly) rockin' intro [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Jul 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsestateS60station wagonStationWagonV60V60 wagonV60WagonVideoVolvoVolvo S60Volvo V60Volvo V60 Wagonvolvo wagonVolvoS60VolvoV60VolvoV60WagonVolvoWagonwagonMon, 05 Jul 2010 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19542191/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/05/officially-official-volvo-v60-sports-wagon-gets-surprisingly/19542191/article-detail.xml 19542191 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/01-v60-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/01-v60-630.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Hyundai Sonata wagon captured for the first time]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/31/spy-shots-hyundai-sonata-wagon-captured-for-the-first-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/31/spy-shots-hyundai-sonata-wagon-captured-for-the-first-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/31/spy-shots-hyundai-sonata-wagon-captured-for-the-first-time/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011/2012 Hyundai Sonata wagon - Click above for high-res image gallery

We recently published some renderings of what a station wagon variant of the new Hyundai Sonata might look like, and we now have our first actual photos of the real thing undergoing testing. While it (predictably) doesn't feature the two-door shooting brake layout we might have hoped for, it actually does look quite close to the four-door image. Hyundai designers appear to have opted for more of a sporty slant-back look like the Audi Avant wagons than the more utilitarian box we typically get from Volvo.

When the Sonata launches in Europe, it is expected to adopt the current iXX naming convention used there to become the i40 Kombi. Europeans will apparently get the wagon first, followed by the sedan. At present, it remains unclear if the wagon will ever arrive in the States. From what we can see through the camo, the i40 will get a different grille from the North American model, as well as a different treatment around the base of the A-pillar. At least on this prototype, the Euro-version has chrome trim that wraps around the mirror, while the chrome on the American variant extends straight down to the trailing edge of the headlamp cluster.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Hyundai i40 Kombi / Sonata wagon


[Source: CarPIx]

Spy Shots: Hyundai Sonata wagon captured for the first time originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 May 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Hyundai2011 hyundai i402011 hyundai i40 kombi2011 hyundai i40 wagon2011 Hyundai Sonata2011 hyundai sonata wagon2011Hyundai2011HyundaiI402011HyundaiI40Kombi2011HyundaiI40Wagon2011HyundaiSonata2011HyundaiSonataWagonhyundaihyundai i40hyundai i40 kombihyundai i40 wagonhyundai sonatahyundai sonata 2011hyundai sonata shooting brakehyundai sonata wagonhyundai station wagonHyundaiI40HyundaiI40KombiHyundaiI40WagonHyundaiSonataHyundaiSonata2011HyundaiSonataShootingBrakeHyundaiSonataWagonHyundaiStationWagoni40sonatasonata estatesonata station wagonsonata wagonSonataEstateSonataStationWagonSonataWagonspyspy picsspy shotspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsstation wagonstation wagonsStationWagonStationWagonsMon, 31 May 2010 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19497609/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/31/spy-shots-hyundai-sonata-wagon-captured-for-the-first-time/19497609/article-detail.xml 19497609 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/hy-i40-wagon-4-copy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/hy-i40-wagon-4-copy.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Touring closer to hauling into showrooms]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/25/spy-shots-bmw-3-series-touring-closer-to-hauling-into-showrooms/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/25/spy-shots-bmw-3-series-touring-closer-to-hauling-into-showrooms/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/25/spy-shots-bmw-3-series-touring-closer-to-hauling-into-showrooms/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW 3 Series Touring spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 3 Series is perhaps the most important vehicle in BMW's lineup, and though the automaker has given it a few minor tweaks for the 2011 model year (fascia nip/tuck, new N55 single-turbo mill), an all-new version is in the works for 2012. We've seen photos of the next-generation sedan all covered in BMW's signature swirly paper, but our spies have just caught the wagon Touring version of the new 3er roaming around European streets, as well. Aside from the obvious addition of a more capacious boot, not much should differ between the 3 Series sedan and wagon when it hits showrooms, which figures to feature a range of new engines and a design more akin to that of the F10 5 Series and new Z4.

We're sure that the new 3 Series Touring will fare well in European markets, but it's unclear how the wagon will be received here in the States, especially since BMW is rumored to be working on a 3 Series Gran Turismo - similar to the 5 Series GT that launched earlier this year. However, the 5GT's slow initial sales numbers may cause BMW to rethink its product planning, and the new 3 wagon will be perfectly poised to do battle with the likes of the Audi A4 Avant and Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon, as well as the new TSX Sport Wagon from Acura which will be arriving in early 2011.

No word yet on when we'll see the production version of the next-generation 3 Series, though we certainly won't rule out a possible debut at this year's Paris Motor Show. For now, click through the gallery below to see the 3 Series Touring showing off its new rump.


Gallery: Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Touring


[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Touring closer to hauling into showrooms originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 May 2010 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series3 series touring3 series wagon3-Series3Series3SeriesTouring3SeriesWagonBimmerbmwBMW 3 Seriesbmw 3 series touringbmw 3 series wagonBMW spy shotsBmw3SeriesBmw3SeriesTouringBmw3SeriesWagonBmwSpyShotsspy photospy photosspy picsspy shotspy shotsSpyPhotoSpyPhotosSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsstation wagonStationWagonTue, 25 May 2010 15:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19490363/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/25/spy-shots-bmw-3-series-touring-closer-to-hauling-into-showrooms/19490363/article-detail.xml 19490363 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/bmw-3-touring-4opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/bmw-3-touring-4opt.jpg <![CDATA[Buick Regal five-door possible, wagon unlikely [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/07/buick-regal-five-door-possible-wagon-unlikely-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/07/buick-regal-five-door-possible-wagon-unlikely-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/07/buick-regal-five-door-possible-wagon-unlikely-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Opel Insignia hatch (left) Buick Regal sedan (right)

When the new Buick Regal goes on sale in the U.S. later this month, it will only be available as a four-door sedan. However, the Regal's German twin, the Opel Insignia, is available as either a five-door hatchback or a station wagon, dubbed the "sports tourer." During our recent jaunt to Germany, we spoke with Buick officials about offering alternate body styles, and were particularly enamored by the Insignia OPC Sports Tourer with its 325 turbocharged V6 and all-wheel drive.

Alas, Buick sales and marketing manager Craig Bierley told us that chances of the wagon making it to America are slim (but not impossible). What's more likely to make it to the U.S. is the five-door. Buick thinks the hatch has a better chance of success in the States because it doesn't look like a hatchback. In fact, aside from slighter shorter rear decklid and more raked rear glass, it's difficult to distinguish from the sedan while still offering the extra utility of the large cargo opening. If the Regal proves successful in the States, the hatch variant could arrive in a year or two. The question is, what do you want?


View Poll



Gallery: Opel Insignia Sports Tourer


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Buick Regal in Germany

Buick Regal five-door possible, wagon unlikely [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 May 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BuickBuick Regalbuick regal hatchbackbuick regal wagonBuickRegalBuickRegalHatchbackBuickRegalWagonopelopel insigniaOpel Insignia Buickopel insignia buick regalopel insignia hatchbackOpel Insignia OPC Sports TourerOpel Insignia Sports TourerOpelInsigniaOpelInsigniaBuickOpelInsigniaBuickRegalOpelInsigniaHatchbackOpelInsigniaOpcSportsTourerOpelInsigniaSportsTourerpollregalregal hatchbackregal wagonRegalHatchbackRegalWagonstation wagonstation wagonsStationWagonStationWagonsFri, 07 May 2010 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19467459/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/07/buick-regal-five-door-possible-wagon-unlikely-w-poll/19467459/article-detail.xml 19467459 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/regal-sedan-hatch_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/regal-sedan-hatch.jpg <![CDATA[Fontastic! Artist creates font based on Volvo 240 Station Wagon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/fontastic-artist-creates-font-based-on-volvo-240-station-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/fontastic-artist-creates-font-based-on-volvo-240-station-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/fontastic-artist-creates-font-based-on-volvo-240-station-wagon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

240SW font by Alex george

Times New Roman? That's for boring people. Graphic artist Alex George is clearly not a boring person. We know this because his love for the the timelessly awesome, relentlessly bulletproof, and "absolutely candid" Volvo 240 Station Wagon spawned what you see above. This, friends, is a font based entirely on the design of the inimitable, beloved "brick." It's called, quite simply, 240SW. And it's brilliant.

You can view more of Alex George's work over at his blog. By the way, if you happen to have a used 240 wagon for sale, Alex would like for you to let him know.

[Source: Alex George via HemmingsNews]

Fontastic! Artist creates font based on Volvo 240 Station Wagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>240240sw240sw font240swFontAlex georgeAlexGeorgebrickfontstation wagonStationWagonvolvovolvo 240 station wagonvolvo 240 wagonvolvo 240sw fontVolvo240StationWagonVolvo240swFontVolvo240WagonwagonFri, 26 Mar 2010 16:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19416246/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/26/fontastic-artist-creates-font-based-on-volvo-240-station-wagon/19416246/article-detail.xml 19416246 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/volvo240swageorge630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/volvo240swageorge630.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo V70 axed in favor of front-drive XC70, S80 V8 going away?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/25/volvo-v70-axed-in-favor-of-front-drive-xc70-s80-v8-going-away/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/25/volvo-v70-axed-in-favor-of-front-drive-xc70-s80-v8-going-away/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/25/volvo-v70-axed-in-favor-of-front-drive-xc70-s80-v8-going-away/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Volvo V70 - Click above to view internal Product Update Bulletin

It's a refrain that two-box enthusiasts have to be tired of hearing, but proper station wagons apparently remain a really hard sell in America. The latest casualty appears to be segment-stalwart Volvo, which, according to a leaked dealer document from an AB tipster (click here to view), is apparently giving up on its V70 estate in the U.S. As noted in a March 25, 2010 internal Product Update Bulletin, the move comes at least in part because of the success of the XC90 and XC60 "chipping away" at the V70's volume. In its stead, the Swedish automaker plans to add a front-drive version of its XC70, which is itself basically just a lifted version of the V70 anyhow. As it stands, production of Yankee-spec V70s is slated to end on May 14.

In another consolidation move, Volvo's S80 will no longer be available with a V8 engine for 2011. Changes to the six-cylinder T6 model will boost power to 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque - the outgoing eight-cylinder offers identical torque and a bit more horsepower (311), but with inferior fuel economy and added weight. Volvo expects the revamped six-cylinder will offer up to a nine-percent improvement in fuel consumption over its predecessor.

Finally, for 2011, Volvo is moving its smaller S40 and V50 models to a single-engine lineup, dumping the entry-level 2.4i (168 hp/170 lb. ft.) in favor of the turbocharged T5, which offers nearly identical fuel economy with significantly more power (227 hp/236 lb. ft.). While that's likely no big loss for would-be buyers (assuming pricing doesn't get out of hand), the range is also going front-drive and automatic-only, with T5 all-wheel drive and 2.4i models also going out of production on May 14. Top tip, Ian!

Volvo V70 axed in favor of front-drive XC70, S80 V8 going away? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>station wagonstation wagonsStationWagonStationWagonsV 70V70VolvoVolvo wagonVolvoWagonXC 60XC 70XC 90XC60XC70XC90Thu, 25 Mar 2010 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19414556/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/25/volvo-v70-axed-in-favor-of-front-drive-xc70-s80-v8-going-away/19414556/article-detail.xml 19414556 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/2010-volvo-v70-so-swede_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/2010-volvo-v70-so-swede.jpg <![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Ford Taurus SHO wagon is the apple of our eye]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/09/rendered-speculation-ford-taurus-sho-wagon-is-the-apple-of-our/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/09/rendered-speculation-ford-taurus-sho-wagon-is-the-apple-of-our/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/09/rendered-speculation-ford-taurus-sho-wagon-is-the-apple-of-our/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Many of us who sit around the Autoblog campfire every day are fans of station wagons. We love cars and love the idea of having some extra utility without giving up the generally superior driving dynamics of cars versus SUVs or crossovers. We also like the idea - if not necessarily the execution - of the Ford Taurus SHO.

Being aware of that fact, one of our readers put his Photoshop skills to work and created the rendering you see here of a SHO wagon. Ford, of course, has never officially built an official SHO wagon - either with the current model or with its predecessors. Naturally, there have been some aftermarket and homebuilt conversions over the years, and even at least one that we know of that was built inside Dearborn.

Of course, building a wagon off of previous models was substantially easier because Ford actually marketed a wagon bodystyle in the first couple of Taurus iterations. Not so with today's massive-yet-handsome sedan. Judging by reader Josiah's rendering above, that's a real shame, because the 2010 Taurus could really put some of its continental bulk to good load-lugging effect with an estate variant. Unfortunately, we'll likely never see anything like this slick wagon produced. The closest we figure to get is an Ecoboost Flex, which isn't exactly a bad alternative. Thanks for the great rendering, Josiah!

[Source: JosiahLacolla.com]

Rendered Speculation: Ford Taurus SHO wagon is the apple of our eye originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford tarus station wagonFord Taurusford taurus SHOford taurus sho wagonFordTarusStationWagonFordTaurusFordTaurusShoFordTaurusShoWagonrenderedrendered speculationrendered-speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingShoSHO wagonShoWagonstation wagonStationWagonTaurustaurus SHOTaurusShoTue, 09 Mar 2010 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19388809/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/09/rendered-speculation-ford-taurus-sho-wagon-is-the-apple-of-our/19388809/article-detail.xml 19388809 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/showagonab-1268098627_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/showagonab-1268098627.jpg <![CDATA[BMW confirms 5 Series Touring reveal for Leipzig]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/22/bmw-confirms-5-series-touring-reveal-for-leipzig/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/22/bmw-confirms-5-series-touring-reveal-for-leipzig/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/22/bmw-confirms-5-series-touring-reveal-for-leipzig/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Current-generation BMW 5 Series Touring

BMW has announced the debut of the company's latest generation 5 Series Touring, so rumors of the Touring's demise may have been exaggerated. To be fair, the BMW 5 Series Touring was never going to go away altogether - not when it sells in big numbers in European markets. That said, BMW foresees its new double-hinged hatchback 5 Series Gran Turismo as cannibalizing the wagon's already tiny sales in the U.S., so we don't expect to see the new Touring model in American showrooms. The rest of the world can look forward to a new wagon that is lower, lighter and more of a looker than the hunchback on the other side of the showroom.

The world premiere of the new 5 Touring will take place at the 2010 Auto Mobil International (AMI) in Leipzig. Although no photos or details have been released, this fourth generation 5 Series station wagon will share a lot in common with the recently introduced F10 2011 5 Series sedan that we sampled in Spain last month. That means new engines, gearboxes, suspension architecture, rear-wheel steering, user-selectable adaptive drive settings, brake energy regeneration and another generation of iDrive, for better or for worse. We'll get you more details and photos as they become available, in the meantime, make the jump for the official press release.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 BMW 535i


Photos by Chris Paukert / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW confirms 5 Series Touring reveal for Leipzig

BMW confirms 5 Series Touring reveal for Leipzig originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 series5 series gt5 series touring5Series5SeriesGt5SeriesTouringAMIauto mobil internationalAuto Mobil International LeipzigAutoMobilInternationalAutoMobilInternationalLeipzigbmwBMW 5 seriesbmw 5 series gran turismobmw 5 series gtBMW 5 Series TouringBmw5SeriesBmw5SeriesGranTurismoBmw5SeriesGtBmw5SeriesTouringleipzigstation wagonStationWagonwagonMon, 22 Feb 2010 17:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19368177/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/22/bmw-confirms-5-series-touring-reveal-for-leipzig/19368177/article-detail.xml 19368177 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/bmw-5-touring-official-580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/bmw-5-touring-official-580.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW 5 Series Touring caught testing... but will it come to America?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-touring-caught-testing-but-will-it-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-touring-caught-testing-but-will-it-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-touring-caught-testing-but-will-it-co/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 BMW 5 Series Touring - click above image for hi-res gallery

Looky, looky - it's another piece of future German metal disguised to look like MC Escher on peyote. But what is it? Well, unlike the never ending back-and-forth between the A6 and/or the A8, we're certain this is the new 2011 5 Series Touring, a.k.a. a Bimmer station wagon or "Kombi" as they call 'em over in Europe. Not bad, right? Kinda lithe yet athletic at the same time. Good looking, too. And let's not forget the M versions of these puppies. Only thing is, what we think probably doesn't matter - odds are we'll never see the 5 Series Touring here in the States.

Why is that? We've mentioned it before, but BMW just launched the 5 Series Gran Turismo. Selling both of the fairly similar five-door cars along side each other might cut into sales. Additionally, wagons have never sold well for BMW here in North America - and for some reason, Americans just aren't into traditional car-like station wagons. And since in BMW's mind the 5 Series GT is going to be a hit, why mess with a good thing?

A few reasons. Never mind the nearly 1,000 pound weight advantage of the wagon (around 4,000 pounds) over the GT (about 4,800 pounds) - which should bring with it better mileage, performance and handling - to its detractors, the Gran Turismo just has an air of Chrysler Pacifica about it. Of course, since the day it came out, many of us auto-journo types have been asking why one would buy the SUV-ish X5 when the hauls-just-as-much-stuff 5 Series wagon is not only available but costs less, goes quicker, handles better, etc. Looks like BMW just might just disarm that line of questioning altogether. Maybe.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 5 Series Touring


[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: BMW 5 Series Touring caught testing... but will it come to America? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 5 Series Kombi2011 5 Series Touring2011 5 Series Wagon2011 BMW 5 Series20115SeriesKombi20115SeriesTouring20115SeriesWagon2011Bmw5Series5 Series Station Wagon5 Series Touring530i Touring530iTouring5SeriesStationWagon5SeriesTouringBMWBMW 5 SeriesBMW 5 Series Gran TurismoBMW 5 Series GTBMW 5 Series WagonBMW WagonBmw5SeriesBmw5SeriesGranTurismoBmw5SeriesGtBmw5SeriesWagonBmwWagonstation wagonStationWagonMon, 09 Nov 2009 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19228966/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/09/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-touring-caught-testing-but-will-it-co/19228966/article-detail.xml 19228966 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/6305kombi_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/6305kombi.jpg <![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Subaru Hybrid Tourer concept previews Fuji Heavy's new design language]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/subaru-hybrid-tourer-concept-tokyo-2009-fuji-heavy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/subaru-hybrid-tourer-concept-tokyo-2009-fuji-heavy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/subaru-hybrid-tourer-concept-tokyo-2009-fuji-heavy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Subaru Hybrid Tourer -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The Subaru Hybrid Tourer is sharp-nosed and an all-out sharp piece of car. The car's flat floor hides two electric motors, one aft that powers the car in low-speed acceleration and assists with acceleration, and one up front connected to a direct-injection turbocharged gas engine. The Tourer is also fitted with Subaru's trademark symmetrical all-wheel drive system and a Lineatronic CVT transmission.

As for its design, Subie officials tell us that the nose points the way for Subaru's new corporate face and the rest of the car indicates the general design language we'll see from the brand represented by the Pleiades. "It will be anti-Bangle, editing, not adding - cars have too many character lines now." But forget about the gullwing doors -- those were fitted to provide the best view of the interior. You can have a great view of it in the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Subaru Hybrid Tourer


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Tokyo 2009: Subaru Hybrid Tourer concept previews Fuji Heavy's new design language originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CVTgas-electricgull winggull-winggullwinghybridhybrid subaruHybridSubarupleiadessedanstation wagonStationWagonSubarusubaru hybridsubaru hybrid tourersubaru hybrid tourer conceptSubaruHybridSubaruHybridTourerSubaruHybridTourerConcepttokyotokyo 2009Tokyo Auto ShowTokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoAutoShowTokyoMotorShowWed, 21 Oct 2009 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19203617/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/21/subaru-hybrid-tourer-concept-tokyo-2009-fuji-heavy/19203617/article-detail.xml 19203617 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/mh00904100_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/mh00904100_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2010 Cadillac CTS Sportwagon eats up cargo, swallows open road]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/review-2010-cadillac-cts-sportwagon-eats-up-cargo-the-open-roa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/review-2010-cadillac-cts-sportwagon-eats-up-cargo-the-open-roa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/review-2010-cadillac-cts-sportwagon-eats-up-cargo-the-open-roa/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Cadillac CTS Sportwagon - Click above for high-res image gallery

In Europe, the humble station wagon holds a big-time slice of the family driver demographic, partly because ridiculous petrol prices make big SUVs and crossovers far too uneconomical. Americans, on the other hand, have a fundamental problem with the station wagon. We're not sure if the wagon is uncool because it was our parents' preferred family vehicle or if the aesthetics of it are just too boxy for our fashion forward culture. The only subset of the American public who has consistently called for more wagons are automotive enthusiasts, though even we seldom seem to vote for the Griswald Family Truckster with our pocketbooks.

Cadillac is all too aware of America's disdain for the wagon, as evidenced by the fact that General Motors' luxury brand has never built a squat two box for the U.S. market. That changes for 2010 as the Wreath and Crest begins production of its 2010 Cadillac CTS Sportwagon. This Caddy begins life with hot-to-trot sheetmetal and the underpinnings of the excellent CTS sedan, but does it have the chutzpah to change our less than flattering opinions about the station wagon? We gave the CTS Sportwagon some time in the Autoblog Garage to see if the first-ever U.S.-market Caddy wagon has the goods to make Americans stop their loathing and get to loading. Click on the jump to find out.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Cadillac CTS Sportwagon


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Shunk / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 Cadillac CTS Sportwagon eats up cargo, swallows open road

Review: 2010 Cadillac CTS Sportwagon eats up cargo, swallows open road originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 cadillac cts sportwagon2010CadillacCtsSportwagon3.6l v63.6lV6cadillaccadillac ctscadillac cts sportwagonCadillacCtsCadillacCtsSportwagonctscts sportwagonCtsSportwagonfe3 suspensionFe3Suspensionfeaturedreviewreviewsstation wagonStationWagonThu, 03 Sep 2009 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19149353/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/09/03/review-2010-cadillac-cts-sportwagon-eats-up-cargo-the-open-roa/19149353/article-detail.xml 19149353 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/ctssportwagon---01_opta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/ctssportwagon---01_opta.jpg -1 2