Station wagons once defined American family road trips, offering a blend of practicality and style. Before SUVs took over, they were the go-to vehicle for families needing space and comfort.
However, today’s market tells a different story. With sales dwindling to a minuscule fraction of total vehicle purchases, wagons have become a rare sight on American roads.
If the Subaru Outback is excluded, fewer than 5,000 wagons will be sold in 2023. The segment, once thriving, now struggles for relevance, prompting enthusiasts to wonder whether station wagons will ever regain their former glory.
Despite their past popularity, wagons now account for less than a third of 1% of the U.S. vehicle market. The decline is so severe that even niche luxury models, such as the BMW 8 Series and Porsche 911, outsold all wagons combined.
Even Lamborghini, a brand known for exclusive, low-volume production, came close to surpassing wagon sales.
Forecasts indicate an even bleaker future, with predictions suggesting fewer than 1,000 wagons will be sold annually by 2027. This rapid decline highlights how SUVs have completely reshaped consumer preferences.
1. Bentley Flying Spur: A Dream of Luxury and Versatility
While Bentley has never officially produced a station wagon, the idea of transforming the 2024 Bentley Flying Spur into a high-end luxury estate remains an exciting concept.
With the Bentayga SUV dominating the luxury SUV space, a station wagon variant of the Flying Spur—possibly a Shooting Brake—would offer a unique blend of performance and opulence.
A long-roof version could incorporate ultra-luxury accessories such as a wine cabinet, stadium seats, or even a pet carrier, catering to a niche but highly exclusive market.
Though production numbers would likely be limited, such a model would provide a select group of customers with a truly distinctive and bespoke Bentley experience.
2. The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Wagon: A Dream Revival
Car enthusiasts have long cherished performance wagons, and Cadillac has a rich history in this niche. The CTS-V Wagon, produced from 2010 to 2014, was a high-performance marvel.
A modern iteration based on the CT5-V Blackwing would be a dream come true. With its 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine delivering 668 horsepower, such a model could rival BMW’s upcoming M5 Touring.
Even a less powerful version, equipped with Cadillac’s 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, would offer a compelling mix of performance and practicality, appealing to wagon fans and performance enthusiasts alike.
3. A Sports Wagon Revival: Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ
Given that sports cars and wagons both struggle to find buyers, why not merge the two? The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ, already known for their agile handling and affordability, would make an excellent base for a sports wagon.
With a redesigned roofline offering additional cargo space, these vehicles could provide an exciting alternative to SUVs while retaining their sporty appeal. A shooting brake variant of either model could be a game-changer, providing driving enthusiasts with a blend of performance and practicality.
4. The Alfa Romeo Giulia Sportwagon: Beauty in Utility
Alfa Romeo has a legacy of designing stunning wagons, and a Giulia-based Sportwagon could reinvigorate interest in the body style. While crossovers dominate Alfa’s lineup, a wagon variant of the beloved Giulia could capture the imagination of American buyers.
If Alfa were to release a Sportwagon version of the Giulia Quadrifoglio, with its Ferrari-derived 505-horsepower engine, enthusiasts would have a stylish yet thrilling option. However, with Alfa transitioning toward electric models, a high-performance electric Sportwagon could be an exciting future possibility.
5. Lucid Air Wagon: A High-Range EV Alternative
Lucid Motors has impressed the industry with its long-range EVs, and a Lucid Air Wagon could redefine practicality in electric vehicles. While the upcoming Lucid Gravity SUV will offer impressive capabilities, a wagon version of the Air could provide similar storage without sacrificing range.
Maintaining the Air’s aerodynamics while extending cargo space would be a compelling alternative for consumers who prioritize efficiency but need more practicality than a sedan can offer.
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6. Lexus IS 500 SportCross: A V8-Powered Wagon Return
Lexus once dabbled in wagons with the IS 300 SportCross, but it never gained significant traction. A modern IS 500 SportCross, featuring a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 producing 474 horsepower, could bring back excitement in the segment.
With bold styling and a high-revving engine, this model could give enthusiasts an alternative to performance SUVs. Lexus has yet to show interest in reviving the SportCross, but a return could cater to a niche audience that values both power and practicality.
7. BMW Z4 Shooting Brake: Reviving the ‘Clown Shoe’
BMW has a history of producing unconventional yet beloved wagons, such as the Z3 Coupe, nicknamed the “Clown Shoe.” The recent Concept Touring Coupe hinted at a revival of this idea, with a shooting brake design based on the Z4.
If BMW were to produce a Z4 Shooting Brake with its 382-horsepower inline-six engine and a manual option, it could generate significant interest among enthusiasts who appreciate unique performance cars. Such a move would blend nostalgia with modern performance, offering a practical yet stylish alternative to traditional coupes.
8. Ferrari 12Cilindri Shooting Brake: A Supercar Wagon
Ferrari has never officially labeled a car as a wagon, yet models like the FF and GTC4Lusso fit the description. Inspired by the legendary 250 GT SWB Breadvan, a Ferrari 12Cilindri Shooting Brake could be an ultimate blend of performance and practicality.
With an 819-horsepower V12, this would be a true enthusiast’s dream car. While Ferrari is unlikely to produce such a model, a limited-run coach-built variant could attract ultra-high-end buyers looking for something unique.
9. Genesis G90 Wagon: Redefining Luxury Estates
Station wagons rarely enter the full-size luxury segment, but the Genesis G90 Wagon could change that. Genesis has made waves in the luxury market with its sophisticated sedans, and a wagon variant of the G90 would offer a blend of opulence and practicality.
Taking inspiration from the G70 Shooting Brake, a G90 wagon could compete with high-end European estates, providing buyers with a unique alternative to luxury SUVs while maintaining world-class comfort and technology.
10. Acura Integra Sportwagon: A Revival Done Right
Acura’s only attempt at a wagon, the TSX Sportwagon, failed due to its uninspired powertrain. A new Acura Integra Sportwagon, built with the high-performance 320-horsepower Type S engine and a manual transmission, could correct past mistakes.
Given the Integra’s existing hatchback layout, converting it into a proper wagon would be a logical step. Such a model could cater to enthusiasts who value engaging driving dynamics but need extra cargo space.
Despite their decline, station wagons still have passionate supporters who appreciate their balance of practicality and driving enjoyment. While the market is unlikely to return to its wagon-loving past, niche offerings could keep the body style alive.
Performance and luxury wagons still have potential, even if mainstream manufacturers remain hesitant. If brands take bold steps with unique, high-performance, or luxury-focused wagons, they may yet carve out a sustainable future for this beloved body style.
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