Finding the cheapest wagon may be a challenge, these days. Although station wagons are not overly popular in the USA, thanks to the rise of the crossover and SUV, a few manufacturers are holding on to the body style, offering luxury iterations, electric and hybrid variants, and even performance-focused derivatives too. But, considering that it is mostly the premium automakers that are sticking with the body style, finding a cheap wagon doesn’t leave you with many options. However, value for money can sometimes be a bigger factor, and this is something the segment excels at. So, if you’re on a strict budget, there are some affordable cars available in this regard.

2023 Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo
Base MSRP
$136,000
Fuel Economy
80/80 MPG
Horsepower
509 hp
2023 Volvo V60 Recharge
Base MSRP
$70,550
Fuel Economy
TBC
Horsepower
455 hp
2023 Porsche Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo
Base MSRP
$155,900
Fuel Economy
80/78 MPG
Horsepower
616 hp
2023 Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo
Base MSRP
$97,700
Fuel Economy
80/80 MPG
Horsepower
375 hp
2023 Volvo V60 Cross Country
Base MSRP
$48,800
Fuel Economy
23/30 MPG
Horsepower
247 hp
2023 Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid Sport Turismo
Base MSRP
$113,000
Fuel Economy
TBC
Horsepower
455 hp
2023 Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo
Base MSRP
$103,200
Fuel Economy
18/23 MPG
Horsepower
325 hp
2023 Volvo V90 Cross Country
Base MSRP
$58,450
Fuel Economy
22/29 MPG
Horsepower
295 hp
2023 Audi A6 allroad
Base MSRP
$67,900
Fuel Economy
21/30 MPG
Horsepower
335 hp
2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain
Base MSRP
$71,250
Fuel Economy
21/28 MPG
Horsepower
362 hp
2023 Audi RS6 Avant
Base MSRP
$121,900
Fuel Economy
14/21 MPG
Horsepower
591 hp
2023 Porsche Panamera Turbo Sport Turismo
Base MSRP
$190,400
Fuel Economy
15/21 MPG
Horsepower
620 hp
2023 Audi A4 allroad
Base MSRP
$45,900
Fuel Economy
23/30 MPG
Horsepower
261 hp
2023 Mini Cooper Clubman
Base MSRP
$29,900
Fuel Economy
22/32 MPG
Horsepower
189 hp
2023 Mini John Cooper Works Clubman
Base MSRP
$39,500
Fuel Economy
23/31 MPG
Horsepower
301 hp
2024 Subaru Outback
Base MSRP
$28,895
Fuel Economy
26/32 MPG
Horsepower
182 hp

What Does It Take to Earn a Spot On Our List of Cheap Wagon Models?

These are the characteristics that define the cheap wagon models:

Characteristics of An Affordable Station Wagon

Even the best affordable station wagon is going to have some downsides; that’s just the way things go. However, knowing where the strengths and weaknesses of the classification lie can help you make informed buying decisions.

Pros

  • Excellent interior space
  • High safety ratings
  • Feels more like driving a car
  • Ride comfort is a focus
  • Reasonable pricing off the bat
  • Good warranty coverage from most brands

Cons

  • Not a lot of cheap options
  • Longer bodies are harder to maneuver and park
  • Often heavy and thirsty
  • Less luxury in lower price range

FAQs

What is the cheapest station wagon?

Currently, the most affordable station wagon in the USA is the Fiat 500L, though many buyers may not see it as a traditional wagon. The Subaru Outback fits the profile a bit better and only costs a few thousand more.

Do they still sell station wagons?

While the popularity of station wagons has declined significantly with the rise of the SUV and crossover, there are still a few automakers who have faith in the body style. These are generally the more luxury car makers such as Audi and Volvo, but there are a few budget brands, too.

What is the coolest station wagon?

Most modern wagons have tried to separate themselves from the chunky, sweaty, thirsty sardine cans that once carried families across America in the 1970s. Nevertheless, it can be difficult to make a car with such a reputation more attractive. The Subaru Outback is an affordable and decent-looking option, but the best lookers are at the upper end of the price bracket, like the Merc E63 and Volvo V60. Performance wagons are by far the best example of a ‘cool wagon’, however.

What is the most expensive station wagon?

To appreciate the good value brought to the table by Subaru and Buick, it helps to look at just how expensive station wagons can get. The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, for example, far exceeds the six-figure mark, with the Turbo S coming in just shy of $200k at $187,600.

What is the difference between an SUV and a station wagon?

Traditionally, station wagons are built on sedan platforms, while SUVs use platforms from trucks. However, crossovers also use sedan-based foundations and offer many of the same benefits as SUVs, though they sacrifice the ability to go off-road.