Top 10 Wagons 2027 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Audi RS6 Avant

The Audi RS6 Avant ranks first because it is the definitive performance wagon, blending a 621-hp twin-turbo V8 with everyday practicality. It launches from 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds, yet offers 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. Its Quattro all-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension deliver both track-level grip and a compliant ride.

This is for the enthusiast who refuses to choose between a supercar and a family hauler, and it justifies its $125,000 starting price with unmatched dual-purpose capability. It trades away fuel economy, with mpg in the mid-teens, and its availability is limited. Compared to the Volvo V90 Cross Country below, the RS6 offers far more power and sharper handling but costs over twice as much and lacks the Volvo's serene, minimalist interior ambiance.

2. Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback secures the second spot as the best value wagon, starting near $31,000 with standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Its base 2.5-liter boxer engine produces 182 hp, while an optional 2.4-liter turbo delivers 260 hp, and cargo space measures 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The standard EyeSight driver-assist suite and consistent IIHS Top Safety Pick+ ratings make it a family favorite.

This is for budget-conscious adventurers who prioritize capability and safety over luxury, and it trades away interior refinement and a thrilling base engine. It offers more ground clearance and a lower price than the Volvo V90 Cross Country below, but the Volvo provides a far more upscale cabin and a more refined powertrain. The Outback's infotainment can lag, but its value proposition remains unmatched in the segment.

3. Volvo V90 Cross Country

The Volvo V90 Cross Country ranks third for its exceptional blend of Scandinavian luxury, safety, and all-weather capability. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder produces 295 hp, paired with all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic, and it offers 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space. The cabin is a sanctuary of leather and wood, and standard City Safety and Pilot Assist systems earn it an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating.

This is for luxury buyers who want a serene, safe, and stylish wagon that can handle rough roads, and it trades away cargo space and powertrain refinement compared to rivals. It costs about $60,000, which is significantly less than the Audi RS6 Avant above, but it also lacks that car's explosive performance and driving excitement. The V90's supercharged engine can feel unrefined, and maintenance costs are high, but its design and safety leadership are compelling.

4. Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack takes the fourth position by offering a sporty, affordable, and practical wagon experience. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes 228 hp, and it is available with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG, all paired with all-wheel drive. Cargo space is a generous 30.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and the interior is well-built with VW's Digital Cockpit.

This is for drivers who want a fun-to-drive wagon without a premium price tag, starting around $33,000, and it trades away rear seat room and consistent reliability. It undercuts the Volvo V90 Cross Country above by a wide margin but cannot match its luxury or safety suite. The Golf Alltrack's manual transmission makes it a driver's choice, though its base engine is adequate rather than thrilling, and its interior, while solid, lacks the Volvo's opulence.

5. Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain ranks fifth for its refined blend of luxury and rugged capability, powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six with 375 hp and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. It features 4MATIC all-wheel drive and air suspension, with 35 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.

This is for luxury buyers who need off-road ability without sacrificing comfort, and it trades away value and long-term reliability for its complex electronics. At around $75,000, it is significantly more expensive than the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack above, but it offers a far more premium experience. The E-Class All-Terrain's inline-six is smoother than the Volvo's four-cylinder, but its depreciation can be steep, and its advanced tech may prove costly to repair.

6. BMW 5 Series Touring

The BMW 5 Series Touring earns the sixth spot for its superb driving dynamics and powerful engine options, including a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 375 hp or a plug-in hybrid with 489 hp. It comes with xDrive all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic, offering 31 cubic feet of cargo space. The interior features BMW's iDrive 8 system, and the M Sport package sharpens the suspension and steering for a more engaging drive.

This is for enthusiasts who want a sporty luxury wagon that feels like a sports sedan, and it trades away ride comfort on rough roads and cargo space compared to some rivals. It is priced around $65,000, which is less than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain above, but it also lacks that car's off-road capability and air suspension.

7. Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo

The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo ranks seventh as the standout electric wagon, redefining the segment with dual-motor all-wheel drive and up to 750 hp in the Turbo S trim. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds, and its 800-volt architecture allows fast charging from 5% to 80% in 22.5 minutes. Cargo space is 15.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and the Cross Turismo trim adds a raised suspension and off-road styling.

This is for electric vehicle enthusiasts who want blistering performance and everyday usability, and it trades away cargo space and range for its athleticism. Starting near $110,000, it is more expensive than the BMW 5 Series Touring above, but it offers a unique electric powertrain and instant torque. The Taycan Cross Turismo's limited cargo area and potential range anxiety are significant trade-offs, but its acceleration and handling are unmatched in the EV wagon space.

8. Mazda CX-50

The Mazda CX-50 takes the eighth position for offering a stylish, fun-to-drive crossover-wagon hybrid at an affordable price. Its 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes 256 hp, paired with all-wheel drive and a 6-speed automatic, and it provides 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space. The interior is upscale for the segment, with premium materials and a driver-focused layout.

This is for budget buyers who want Mazda's signature driving dynamics without a premium badge, and it trades away rear seat room and a manual transmission. Starting around $32,000, it is a more affordable and more engaging alternative to the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo above, but it lacks that car's electric performance and prestige. The CX-50's infotainment system can be distracting, but its upscale interior and sharp handling make it a compelling value.

9. Toyota Corolla Cross

The Toyota Corolla Cross ranks ninth for its legendary reliability and excellent fuel economy, especially in its hybrid version, which achieves 45 mpg combined. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes 169 hp, with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive available, and it offers 26.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is standard, and it frequently earns an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. This is a practical and efficient choice for those prioritizing dependability.

This is for buyers who value reliability and low running costs above all else, and it trades away driving excitement and interior quality. At around $28,000, it is less expensive than the Mazda CX-50 above, but it is also less fun to drive and has a cheaper-feeling cabin. The Corolla Cross's base engine is underpowered, and its handling is bland, but its reputation for longevity and its hybrid fuel economy make it a smart, sensible pick.

10. Honda Civic Hatchback

The Honda Civic Hatchback rounds out the top ten as a sporty and practical wagon that offers Honda's renowned engineering and engaging driving dynamics. Its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder makes 180 hp, or 200 hp in the Si, and it is available with a 6-speed manual or CVT. Cargo space is 24.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and the interior is well-designed with a user-friendly infotainment system.

This is for budget buyers who want a fun, efficient daily driver, and it trades away cargo space and rear seat room compared to true wagons. Starting around $27,000, it is the most affordable option on this list, undercutting the Toyota Corolla Cross above while offering a more engaging drive. The Civic Hatchback's road noise can be intrusive, but its available manual transmission and excellent fuel economy make it a rewarding and economical choice.

How we ranked these

We weighted each wagon against priorities real shoppers tell dealers and survey firms they care about, using published data from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, KBB, U.S. News, IIHS, EPA, and manufacturer pages. Weighting: cargo space and practicality 25%, driving dynamics and performance 25%, reliability and ownership cost 20%, safety ratings 15%, tech and value 10%, price-to-performance 5%.

A wagon that hauls gear but drives like a bus, or wins on horsepower but costs a fortune to maintain, drops fast. The winners balance all six.

We deliberately ignored brand prestige, subjective styling, and dealer discounts, which vary widely by region and negotiation. We also excluded models with incomplete 2026–2027 safety data or unverified specs, ensuring every pick uses real model-year figures. This keeps rankings objective and reproducible, focusing on measurable attributes that directly impact ownership satisfaction.

What to look for

When choosing between these wagons, prioritize cargo versatility and driving dynamics over raw specs. Look for flat-folding seats, low liftover height, and a wide tailgate—these matter more than cubic feet on paper. Test adaptive dampers and all-wheel-drive systems on rough roads; a lower center of gravity and independent rear suspension preserve car-like handling. For all-weather capability, standard AWD or a proven Haldex-style system is essential, especially if you venture off pavement.

Avoid fixating on horsepower or tech gimmicks; a wagon's true value emerges in how it integrates utility with driver engagement.

The most common mistake buyers make is cross-shopping wagons against SUVs without considering the wagon's lower weight and better aerodynamics, which improve fuel economy and handling. Many also overlook the importance of ground clearance—models like the Outback and V90 Cross Country offer SUV-like capability without the body roll. Another error is ignoring ownership costs: luxury wagons like the RS6 and E-Class All-Terrain have steep depreciation and maintenance, while Subaru and Toyota offer lower long-term costs.

Finally, don't dismiss the manual transmission options in the Golf Alltrack or Civic Hatchback—they add engagement at no extra cost.

Related questions

What is the best wagon for families in 2027?

The Subaru Outback is the top family wagon for 2027, offering standard all-wheel drive, 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space, and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ ratings. Its 8.7-inch ground clearance handles rough roads, and the EyeSight driver-assist suite is standard. For more luxury, the Volvo V90 Cross Country provides a safer, more refined interior but costs nearly double.

Which wagon has the best fuel economy in 2027?

The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid leads with 45 mpg combined, making it the most efficient wagon on this list. The Honda Civic Hatchback achieves up to 37 mpg highway with its turbocharged engine. The Subaru Outback with the base 2.5-liter engine returns 26 city/33 highway mpg, which is respectable for an AWD wagon.

Are there any electric wagons available in 2027?

Yes, the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is the standout electric wagon, offering up to 750 hp and 0-60 mph in 2.7 seconds. Its 800-volt architecture charges from 5% to 80% in 22.5 minutes. The Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer is also expected in some markets, providing a more affordable EV wagon option.

What is the most reliable wagon for 2027?

The Toyota Corolla Cross and Subaru Outback consistently rank highest in reliability surveys from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. The Toyota hybrid offers the best long-term durability, while the Outback's boxer engine and AWD system have a proven track record. Both have lower ownership costs than European rivals.

Is the Audi RS6 Avant worth its $125,000 price?

For enthusiasts who want a family hauler that can dominate a track, yes. Its 621-hp V8, luxurious interior, and 30 cubic feet of cargo space make it unique. However, its high cost, mid-teens fuel economy, and limited availability are significant downsides. If you don't need that performance, the Volvo V90 offers more value.

What is the best wagon for off-road use in 2027?

The Subaru Outback leads with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard AWD, making it ideal for light off-roading. The Volvo V90 Cross Country offers 8.3 inches plus off-road driving modes, but at a higher price. The Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain also provides capable off-road features with 6.1 inches of clearance.

Which wagon has the most cargo space in 2027?

The Subaru Outback offers 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 75.7 cubic feet with them folded, the most on this list. The Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain provides 35 cubic feet, but the Outback's boxy design makes it more practical for bulky items. The Audi RS6 has 30 cubic feet, which is still generous.

Are there any wagons with a manual transmission in 2027?

Yes, the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack offers a 6-speed manual, and the Honda Civic Hatchback is available with a 6-speed manual in both standard and Si trims. These provide a more engaging driving experience, though they may have lower fuel economy than automatic versions. The manual is rare in this segment, making these models special.

FAQ

What is the most reliable wagon for 2027?

The Toyota Corolla Cross and Subaru Outback consistently rank highest in reliability surveys from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. The Toyota hybrid offers the best long-term durability, while the Outback's boxer engine and AWD system have a proven track record. Both have lower ownership costs than European rivals.

Is the Audi RS6 Avant worth the high price?

For enthusiasts who want a family hauler that can also dominate a track, yes. Its 621-hp V8, luxurious interior, and practical cargo space make it a unique package, but its high cost and poor fuel economy are significant downsides. If you don't need that performance, the Volvo V90 offers more value.

What is the best wagon for off-road use?

The Subaru Outback and Volvo V90 Cross Country lead the pack, with the Outback offering 8.7 inches of ground clearance and the Volvo providing 8.3 inches plus all-wheel drive and off-road driving modes. The Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain also offers capable off-road features with 6.1 inches of clearance.

Are there any electric wagons for 2027?

Yes, the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is the standout electric wagon, offering blistering performance and fast charging. The Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer is also expected in some markets, providing a more affordable EV wagon option. These represent the future of the segment, but range and cargo space may be limited.

What is the most affordable wagon on this list?

The Honda Civic Hatchback starts at $27,000, making it the most affordable, followed by the Toyota Corolla Cross at $28,000 and the Subaru Outback at $31,000. These offer excellent value, but the Outback provides more cargo space and standard AWD, making it the best value pick overall.

Which wagon has the best safety ratings?

The Audi RS6 Avant, Subaru Outback, and Volvo V90 Cross Country all earn IIHS Top Safety Pick+ ratings. The Volvo is renowned for its City Safety system and Pilot Assist, while the Outback's EyeSight suite is standard. The Toyota Corolla Cross also achieves top safety scores with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.

How does the Mazda CX-50 compare to the Subaru Outback?

The Mazda CX-50 offers a more upscale interior and engaging driving dynamics, with 256 hp from its turbo engine, but has less cargo space (31.4 cu ft) and no manual transmission. The Outback provides more cargo room, standard AWD, and higher ground clearance, making it more practical for families and off-road use.

What is the depreciation rate for luxury wagons?

Luxury wagons like the Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain and BMW 5 Series Touring can depreciate 40-50% over five years due to high initial prices and complex electronics. The Audi RS6 Avant holds value better due to its performance pedigree, but still loses significant value. Subaru and Toyota wagons depreciate much slower.

Are there any plug-in hybrid wagons for 2027?

The BMW 5 Series Touring offers a plug-in hybrid with 489 hp, providing electric-only range for daily commutes. The Volvo V90 Cross Country also has a plug-in hybrid variant in some markets. These combine efficiency with performance, but they cost more and add complexity to the powertrain.

What is the best wagon for driving enthusiasts?

The Audi RS6 Avant is the top choice with 621 hp and 0-60 in 3.3 seconds, but the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo offers even quicker acceleration with 750 hp. For a more affordable option, the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack with a manual transmission provides engaging handling. The BMW 5 Series Touring also excels in driving dynamics.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/audi/rs6-avant
• https://www.motortrend.com/cars/subaru/outback/
• https://www.edmunds.com/volvo/v90-cross-country/
• https://www.kbb.com/volkswagen/golf-alltrack/
• https://www.usnews.com/cars-trucks/mercedes-benz/e-class-all-terrain
• https://www.iihs.org/ratings
• https://www.fueleconomy.gov/
• https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/
• https://www.jdpower.com/cars
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi_RS6

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