Top 10 Sport Wagons

2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

What we think
Sporty and aggressive, the newly reworked Impreza WRX 5-door comes with standard all-wheel drive and a five-star crash test rating. Of course, if that's not enough for you, there is always the rally inspired (and quite mental) 300 hp WRX STI.

At a glance
Price: $24,850
Engine and drivetrain: 2.5-liter Subaru Boxer-4 engine, 224 horsepower, 226 lb-ft of torque, 6-speed manual transmission, all-wheel drive
MPG: 20 City/25 Hwy

2008 MazdaSpeed3

What we think
Only available in a 5-door style, the MazdaSpeed3 is not only one of the fastest Mazda on the market, but an amazing bargain. Its drivability and torque-rich turbocharged engine make it a no-brainer when it comes to practical performance.

At a glance
Price: $22,975
Engine and drivetrain: 2.3-liter I-4 turbo engine, 263 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque, 6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive
MPG: 18 City/26 Hwy

2008 Audi A3

What we think
The Audi A3 2.0T in many ways represents the perfect compromise. It's a wagon that actually looks cool, sort of like a hatchback that's been forced to grow up. It's fun to drive and if its turbocharged four cylinder isn't enough for you, you can always opt for a V-6 coupled with Quattro all-wheel drive.

At a glance
Price: $25,930
Engine and drivetrain: 2.0-liter turbo I-4 engine, 200 horsepower, 207 lb-ft of torque, 6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel-drive
MPG: 21 City/29 Hwy

2008 Saab 9-3 SportCombi

What we think
The Saab 9-3 SportCombi's intentions are clear at first glance. Sporting big, five-spoke wheels, large front air scoops and twin exhaust, it's difficult to imagine not having fun in this car. A turbocharged V-6 and all-wheel drive are available as a built-to-order option as well.

At a glance
Price: $29,995
Engine and drivetrain: 2.0-liter I-4 engine, 210 horsepower, 221 lb-ft of torque, 6-speed manual transmission, front wheel drive
MPG: 19 City/26 Hwy

2008 BMW 535xi Wagon

What we think
With all-wheel drive and a twin turbo inline-six engine, the BWM 535xi wagon is a capable and comfortable all-rounder, providing ample power at any rpm along with a well tuned chassis - good news for those looking to have some thrills in the bends.

At a glance
Price: $54,000
Engine and drivetrain: 3.0-liter twin turbo I-6 engine, 300 horsepower, 300 lb-ft torque, 6-speed manual transmission, all-wheel drive
MPG: 16 City/24 Hwy

2008 Volkswagen Passat Wagon

What we think
For those not requiring all-wheel drive, the Volkswagen Passat Wagon offers the same versatility (not to mention the same engine) as the Audi A4 Avant. All-wheel drive paired with a 3.6-liter V-6 is also available as an option.

At a glance
Price: $25,200
Engine and drivetrain: 2.0-liter I-4 engine, 200 horsepower, 207 lb-ft of torque, 6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive
MPG: 21 City/29 Hwy

2008 Volvo V50

What we think
If there's one thing the Volvo moniker insinuates, it's practicality. Yet the V50 manages to infuse some sporty dynamics into the experience as well, especially when equipped with the punchy 227 hp T5 engine. With the recent demise of the V70R, this is the way to go when it comes to a fun Volvo wagon.

At a glance
Price: $26,815
Engine and drivetrain: 2.4-liter I-5 engine, 168 horsepower, 170 lb-ft of torque, five-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
MPG: 20 City/28 Hwy

2008 Audi A4 Avant Quattro

What we think
Building on the A3, Audi's A4 Avant offers more space along with standard all-wheel drive. Those looking to dispatch the journey from point A to point B as quickly as possible would do well to look into the S4 Avant, which has a 340 hp 4.2-liter V-8 under the hood.

At a glance
Price: $32,000
Engine and drivetrain: 2.0-liter turbo I-4 engine, 200 horsepower, 207 lb-ft of torque, 6-speed manual or Tiptronic automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive
MPG: 22 City/30 Hwy

2008 Mercedes-Benz E350 4Matic Wagon

What we think
While the 3.5-liter model might isn't the quickest wagon on the block, it can certainly hold its own. However, those harboring wanton disregard for traffic regulations and the laws of physics will want to look into the E63 from Mercedes' AMG performance division. Packing a disturbingly potent 6.3-liter V8 with 507 hp on tap, it's the fastest wagon available in North America.

At a glance
Price: $59,775
Engine and drivetrain: 3.5-liter V-6 engine, 268 horsepower, 258 lb-ft torque, 5-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive.
MPG: 17 City/24 Hwy

2008 Dodge Magnum

What we think
Cargo capacity is the Magnum's specialty and while the 2.7-liter V-6 engine provides ample hauling power and decent fuel economy, those with deeper pockets and braver aspirations will want to spring for the fully loaded 425 hp SRT8 model. Act fast on this one, it goes out of production next year. A classic muscle car in the making.

At a glance
Price: $24,120
Engine and drivetrain: 2.7-liter V-6 engine, 178 horsepower, 190 lb-ft of torque, 4-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive
MPG: 18 City/26 Hwy