Even though the idea of actually one day owning one never really crossed my mind while growing up, I have always liked the shape of a station wagon. Admittedly the ones I liked most sported lowered suspensions and large alloy wheels (my favourite being the Audi RS2), but I do still think that a well-proportioned station wagon can look better than the saloon version of the same model. I say well proportioned because it would appear there is a fine line between getting a wagon version right, and getting it very wrong, judging by the likes of the Fiat Palio Weekend. The trick seems to be in moulding the “box” onto the rear during the design stage of the model, rather than simply pasting extra metal bits onto the D-pillar of a production saloon and hoping for the best.
Historically certain manufacturers, in my opinion, have had more success at creating good-looking station wagons than others. One of the first international launched that I attended, as a young scribe working for Car magazine was the first Alfa Romeo 156 Sportwagon. A great looking vehicle from a manufacturer not known for offering wagon models. Of the more established wagon makers I reckon Audi and Volvo get the formula right more often than not. The German brand has to be credited for making some of the best-looking performance wagons in the business. From the aforementioned RS2 to the more recent RS4 and RS6 Avant models – they just look right.
While Volvo station wagons may have made it onto the odd child’s bedroom wall when Rikard Rydell was throwing his 850 Estate around British Touring Car circuits in 1994, this Swedish company is perhaps best know for its reputation for producing rather boxy, very safe, family cars. Well, these days Volvo station wagons are still extremely safe and I’m happy to report, no longer boxy. In fact, I was so impressed with the sleek, well-proportioned lines of the new V60 range that I happily asked for the wagon version as my current long-term transportation over the equivalent S60 saloon model.
So far in the six months that I’ve spent with “my” Volvo V60 T5 I’ve successfully moved house, adopted two dogs, and gotten engaged. At this rate I may be torn between handing the extremely comfortable and competent Volvo back and seeing what other life changing events might be in store for me as a V60 owner.
Thus far:
Pros: Fresh and distinctive design, versatility, comfort
Cons: Slightly heavy steering, impractical interior colour
Fuel economy: Volvo claims between 9,96 L/100 km, I’m getting around 10,4 L/100 km
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