10 Testosterone-Fueled Station Wagons: Which One Would You Choose?

The long-awaited BMW M3 Touring is finally arriving this June, marking a significant expansion of the high-performance wagon segment. For decades, BMW M3 enthusiasts have desired a Touring version, blending the M3’s performance capabilities with the practicality of a wagon. This launch comes as automakers increasingly cater to drivers seeking both track-ready performance and everyday versatility.

The M3 Touring Competition boasts a 3.0-liter, biturbocharged inline-six engine producing 530 horsepower and 650 Newton-meters of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 3.6 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. BMW is also offering a more extreme CS variant, pushing performance further with 551 horsepower, a 3.5-second zero to 100 km/h sprint, and a raised top speed of 300 km/h. The Competition model currently starts around 39 million Hungarian Forint (approximately €100,000) according to BMW’s official Hungarian website, with customization potentially increasing the price significantly.

However, the allure of a performance wagon doesn’t necessarily require a six-figure investment. The used market presents compelling alternatives for those seeking a similar experience at a lower price point. The Audi RS4 Avant, particularly the B7 generation, offers a compelling option. Equipped with a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine, the B7 delivered 420 horsepower and 430 Newton-meters of torque. The subsequent B8 generation increased output to 450 horsepower.

The B7’s appeal lies in its relative simplicity and the robustness of its naturally aspirated engine. While maintaining a high-performance vehicle of this age requires diligent upkeep, the absence of turbochargers can reduce the potential for complex and costly repairs. Currently, well-maintained B7 RS4 Avants can be found for around €21,000.

For buyers prioritizing affordability, the Škoda Octavia Combi RS provides a cost-effective entry point into the performance wagon market. Offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and respectable performance, the Octavia RS is available with various engine options, including four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines. Current models deliver 265 horsepower, while previous generations offered outputs ranging from 184 to 245 horsepower. A new Octavia RS starts under 20 million Forint.

Looking further back, the Volvo T5-R, released in 1995, represents a bold departure for the traditionally conservative Swedish automaker. Developed in collaboration with Porsche, the T5-R featured a 2.3-liter, five-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 240 horsepower. While not as potent as modern performance wagons, the T5-R’s unique character and limited production run have made it a sought-after collector’s item. Prices for well-maintained examples now range from approximately €12,000 to €35,000.

For those seeking exclusivity, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Wagon, exclusively sold in Japan, represents a rare and highly desirable option. Powered by the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine found in the Evolution sedan, the wagon variant delivers 286 horsepower and all-wheel drive capability. However, finding one outside of Japan is exceedingly difficult, and prices remain exceptionally high.

The Alfa Romeo 156 GTA Sportwagon offers a compelling blend of Italian style and performance. Powered by a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 250 horsepower, the GTA Sportwagon provides a spirited driving experience and a distinctive aesthetic. With only 1,678 units produced, it’s a relatively rare find, with prices ranging from approximately €12,000 to €30,000 depending on condition.

Finally, the Audi RS 6 Avant C6, produced between 2007 and 2011, stands out with its 5.0-liter V10 engine delivering 580 horsepower. This model offers a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and practicality. Prices currently range from approximately €20,000 to €40,000. The BMW E61 M5 Touring, with its 507 horsepower V10, is another rare and desirable option, commanding prices between €50,000 and €120,000. The Mercedes-AMG E 63 S212, with its 6.2-liter V8, offers a powerful alternative, priced between €30,000 and €52,000. The Alpina D3 Touring, offering a diesel-powered option, ranges from approximately €20,000 to €100,000.

The resurgence of the performance wagon, exemplified by the new BMW M3 Touring, demonstrates a growing demand for vehicles that combine practicality with exhilarating performance. While the M3 Touring represents the latest offering in this segment, a diverse range of used options provides enthusiasts with compelling alternatives to suit various budgets and preferences.