Cars

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Wagons of 2025

In an automotive market increasingly dominated by SUVs, station wagons stand out as a unique and appealing alternative. They masterfully combine everyday practicality with engaging driving dynamics and distinctive aesthetics, catering to drivers who value both form and function. While their popularity may have waned compared to their peak in past decades, these vehicles continue to captivate a dedicated audience. The 2025 lineup showcases a resurgence of innovative and compelling wagon models, ranging from robust all-terrain options to opulent, high-performance variants. This renewed focus on wagons emphasizes their enduring charm and ability to deliver a more car-like driving experience than their SUV counterparts, often with superior visual appeal.

Discovering the Premier Wagons of 2025

As the automotive landscape evolves, a select group of station wagons in the 2025 model year are making a compelling case for their continued relevance, blending family-friendly utility with dynamic performance and sophisticated design. Here's a closer look at some of the standout offerings:

First in the spotlight is the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia, arriving with a starting price of around $44,090. While Toyota doesn't explicitly market it as a wagon, its elongated silhouette and sleek profile undeniably embody the essence of one. This new entrant boasts a hybrid powertrain delivering 240 horsepower, achieving an impressive 38 mpg combined and accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7 seconds. Standard all-wheel drive makes it a versatile choice for diverse driving conditions. Its striking front fascia echoes the refined styling of Lexus, and it comes generously equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, full LED lighting, power-folding and heated mirrors, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, dual 12.3-inch displays, a wireless smartphone charger, and Toyota's cutting-edge Safety Sense 3.0 suite. The Crown Signia epitomizes a harmonious balance of efficiency, comfort, and outstanding value.

Next up is the venerable 2025 Subaru Outback, with an entry-level price of approximately $29,995. Though future iterations might deviate, the 2025 model retains its iconic wagon-like form, seamlessly bridging the gap between a traditional station wagon and a modern crossover. It offers seating for five, ample cargo capacity, and Subaru's renowned dependability. The Outback is powered by a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 182 horsepower, with an optional 2.4-liter turbocharged engine boosting output to 260 horsepower for a more exhilarating ride. Both engines prioritize fuel efficiency. Key features include Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which increases to 9.5 inches on the Wilderness trim. Standard amenities include cloth upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and advanced EyeSight driver-assist technology. Higher trims offer luxurious upgrades such as Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats, a Harman Kardon audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a hands-free power liftgate.

For those seeking luxury with rugged capability, the 2025 Audi A6 Allroad, starting at about $70,500, presents an elegant solution. Derived from the A6 sedan, this wagon distinguishes itself with a graceful sloping rear glass, an extended cabin, robust wheel arches, and an elevated ride height, making it equally adept at highway cruising and navigating challenging terrain. Its interior is a sanctuary of meticulous craftsmanship, featuring premium leather, state-of-the-art displays, and a remarkably quiet cabin. Under the hood, a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with mild-hybrid technology produces 335 horsepower, channeling power through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission to Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. An adaptive air suspension allows for adjustable ride height, enhancing its versatility. Standard features include 20-inch alloy wheels, full LED lighting, a panoramic sunroof, three-zone automatic climate control, a customizable gauge cluster, dual infotainment and climate screens, power-adjustable heated front seats, leather upholstery, and ambient interior lighting.

Elevating the performance quotient is the 2025 Audi RS6 Avant, a track-ready family hauler with a base MSRP of around $130,700. This automotive icon effortlessly merges practicality with supercar-level performance. Its aggressive stance, flared fenders, and substantial wheels command attention, yet it comfortably accommodates five passengers and offers a generous 59.3 cubic feet of cargo space—surpassing many SUVs. The RS6 Avant is propelled by a 621-horsepower twin-turbocharged V8 engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, launching it from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.3 seconds. Standard all-wheel steering further enhances its agility. Additional standard features include RS sport suspension, 22-inch alloy wheels, RS-specific bodywork, a power tailgate, and high-performance brakes. Inside, it boasts RS sport seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, dual touchscreens, a 12.3-inch configurable instrument cluster, and a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, complemented by heated and ventilated seating, four-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof.

Finally, the most audacious entry is the 2025 BMW M5 Touring, priced from approximately $125,275. This vehicle blurs the lines between a luxury station wagon and a high-performance supercar. Its imposing illuminated kidney grilles, aggressive air dam, massive rear fenders, and quad exhaust pipes declare its raw power. Despite its formidable performance credentials, the M5 Touring retains its practicality with ample rear passenger space and a commodious cargo area. Power comes from a twin-turbo V8 plug-in hybrid system, unleashing a staggering 717 horsepower. It sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and can reach a top speed of 190 mph with the optional M Driver's Package. Standard features include M xDrive all-wheel drive, adaptive M suspension, and robust carbon-ceramic brakes. The M5 Touring also includes adaptive LED headlights, M-specific body enhancements, 21-inch wheels, and a hands-free tailgate. The interior is adorned with a curved dual-screen display featuring augmented reality navigation, Merino leather, heated and ventilated M sport seats, ambient lighting, four-zone automatic climate control, and a Harman Kardon audio system.

These exceptional wagons for 2025 demonstrate that drivers no longer need to sacrifice style, performance, or driving enjoyment for the sake of utility. They offer a compelling alternative to conventional SUVs, proving that the spirit of the station wagon is not only alive but thriving with innovative engineering and luxurious appointments.

BMW i7 Lease Incentives for August Unveiled

BMW has unveiled compelling leasing incentives for its 2025 i7 electric sedan for the month of August, aiming to make its luxury electric flagship more accessible. These newly introduced offers, combined with existing loyalty programs, position the i7 as an exceptionally attractive option in the premium EV segment. With its blend of sophisticated technology, opulent comfort, and robust performance, the i7 continues the esteemed legacy of the 7 Series, now adapted for the electric age. Its competitive pricing and enhanced customer benefits present a timely opportunity for discerning buyers considering a top-tier electric vehicle.

For many decades, the BMW 7 Series has symbolized the pinnacle of automotive luxury and innovation, seamlessly integrating advanced technology, superior comfort, and powerful performance. The i7 seamlessly transitions this revered heritage into the realm of electric mobility, embodying the brand's forward-thinking vision. This electric variant mirrors the commanding presence and lavishness found in its gasoline-powered counterparts, while delivering the characteristic smooth and almost silent propulsion of an electric vehicle. It stands as a formidable contender against other prominent electric luxury vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Lucid Air, yet it undeniably retains the distinctive driving dynamics synonymous with BMW.

To enhance its allure this month, BMW has rolled out special lease programs. The 2025 i7 eDrive50 Sedan is available for a monthly payment of $969 over 36 months, with an initial payment of $8,169. For those seeking more power, the all-wheel-drive 2025 i7 xDrive60 Sedan is offered at $1,199 per month for the same duration, requiring $9,129 at signing. The pinnacle of the lineup, the high-performance 2025 i7 M70 Sedan, carries a lease rate of $1,789 per month with $11,249 due at signing. Additionally, returning BMW clients can benefit from loyalty credits of up to $5,000, further sweetening the proposition. These figures exclude taxes, title, and license fees, yet the overall package significantly boosts the i7’s competitive standing among luxury electric sedans.

Beyond its luxurious cabin, the i7 distinguishes itself with impressive electric performance and practicality. The eDrive50 model boasts an EPA-estimated range of up to 321 miles, while the xDrive60 provides up to 298 miles. Even the high-performance M70 variant maintains a respectable range of 291 miles. For convenience, the i7 supports DC fast charging, allowing drivers to recover up to 80 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes under optimal conditions, significantly reducing range anxiety on longer journeys. As an added benefit, BMW provides three years of complimentary 30-minute charging sessions at Electrify America stations, which helps to mitigate the operational costs associated with electric vehicle ownership.

The i7’s interior is a showcase of lavishness and advanced features. It is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, including options like crystal glass controls, rich open-pore wood finishes, and sumptuous Merino leather. The dashboard is dominated by a sweeping curved display that seamlessly integrates BMW's iDrive 8.5 system, offering a range of entertainment options from video streaming to gaming and voice assistance. Rear passengers are treated to an immersive experience with a 31-inch theater-style screen that retracts from the headliner, transforming the cabin into a mobile cinematic environment. Performance is also a highlight; the eDrive50 offers brisk acceleration, while the xDrive60’s dual-motor configuration ensures confident all-wheel-drive handling. The M70 amplifies this with over 650 horsepower, enabling a 0-60 mph sprint in the low three-second range, an impressive feat for a vehicle of its stature.

In a dynamic and competitive electric vehicle landscape, the BMW i7 carves out a distinct niche through its harmonious blend of sophisticated design, robust performance capabilities, and cutting-edge technological integration. The August lease offers, complemented by loyalty incentives, render it an especially compelling choice for those contemplating a high-end electric vehicle. This combination of advantageous pricing and a premium product experience makes now an opportune moment to explore the flagship electric offering from BMW.

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2025 Kia K5 vs. 2025 Hyundai Sonata: A Comprehensive Sedan Showdown

In the fiercely competitive landscape of mid-size sedans, the 2025 Kia K5 and the 2025 Hyundai Sonata stand as formidable rivals, both vying for the discerning buyer's attention. These two vehicles, sharing a common lineage under the same parent company, exhibit remarkable similarities in their fundamental offerings, yet present compelling differences that cater to distinct preferences. From their sporty aesthetics and commendable fuel efficiency to their accessible pricing, both models have carved out significant success in the North American market, with the 2025 Kia K5 entering at a starting price of $27,190 and the 2025 Hyundai Sonata closely following at $26,900. While the K5 receives a thoughtful refresh for 2025, incorporating exterior design enhancements, technology upgrades, and powertrain adjustments, the Sonata largely carries over its successful formula, reintroducing certain trims and adding minor conveniences. This detailed comparison aims to illuminate the nuances between these two celebrated sedans, empowering consumers to make an informed decision based on their individual driving aspirations.

Dissecting the 2025 Kia K5 and 2025 Hyundai Sonata: An In-Depth Analysis

The 2025 Kia K5 and 2025 Hyundai Sonata present a captivating dilemma for sedan enthusiasts, each offering a distinct blend of style, performance, and advanced features. Unveiled to the North American market in a refreshed iteration, the 2025 Kia K5 showcases an updated exterior, refined technological integrations, and a subtly recalibrated powertrain. Its counterpart, the 2025 Hyundai Sonata, while primarily a carryover model, reintroduces a base SE trim, debuts an SEL Convenience trim, and thoughtfully equips the N-Line with rear passenger HVAC vents, enhancing its appeal.

Stepping inside, the 2025 Kia K5 immediately impresses with a premium cabin feel, despite the presence of hard plastics in certain areas. Elegant wood trim options grace prominent surfaces like the dashboard and doors, beautifully accented by ambient lighting. Drivers and passengers alike will appreciate the generous interior volume of 121.3 cubic feet, with 105.3 cubic feet dedicated to passenger comfort. The front seating is notably plush, featuring heating across most trims and available ventilation, while the rear row offers ample legroom. Furthermore, the K5 boasts a cargo capacity of 15.6 cubic feet, slightly surpassing the segment average, complemented by a wide trunk opening for effortless loading. Across the aisle, the 2025 Hyundai Sonata mirrors the K5's upscale interior ambiance, presenting a spacious rear seating area, a sleek and contemporary design, and a highly customizable front seating arrangement. While some drivers have noted minor visibility challenges due to the thick rear window pillars and sloped roofline, overall visibility remains commendable. For those craving a more dynamic driving environment, the Sonata's N Line trim offers unique sport seats with microfiber inserts.

Under the hood, both sedans deliver comparable power and efficiency, though with differing approaches. The 2025 Kia K5 shifts from its previous turbocharged 1.6-liter engine to a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine, generating a robust 191 horsepower and 181.5 lb-ft of torque, seamlessly paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For a more exhilarating experience, the K5's GT trim offers a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, unleashing an impressive 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The K5 maintains an efficient profile with a drag coefficient of 0.27, achieving 23-26 mpg in urban settings and 33-37 mpg on highways. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata largely echoes the K5's power figures, both in its standard and performance variants, delivering similar mileage ranging from 23-28 mpg in the city and 32-38 mpg on the highway. A distinct advantage for the Sonata is its available hybrid option, which the K5 does not offer, boasting an outstanding 44 mpg in the city and 51 mpg on the highway.

Visually, the differences become more pronounced in their exterior designs. The 2025 Kia K5 sports a more aggressive front grille with a dynamic mesh pattern and updated "Star Map" daytime running lights, exuding a decidedly sportier demeanor. Wheel options range from 16 to 19 inches, and a new matte silver paint color, along with sharper taillights, further enhance its modern appeal. The 2025 Sonata also offers wheel sizes from 16 to 19 inches, featuring standard LED headlights and daytime running lights. While its front grille's mesh pattern is subtler than the K5's, the Sonata stands out with a striking LED taillight that spans the entire rear of the vehicle, offering a more conservative yet equally refined aesthetic.

Technologically, both the K5 and Sonata are well-equipped, featuring a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional Bose sound system with eight speakers enhances the auditory experience, and most trims include a wireless smartphone charging pad and a hands-free power trunk lid. However, a significant disparity emerges in their safety performance. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata earned the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), demonstrating superior crash protection. In contrast, the 2025 Kia K5 did not receive any IIHS accolades, notably receiving a "Poor" rating in the updated moderate overlap front crash test, despite both models offering a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance technologies.

Ultimately, the choice between the 2025 Kia K5 and the 2025 Hyundai Sonata hinges on individual priorities. Both vehicles deliver compelling value and performance within the mid-size sedan segment. However, for those prioritizing cutting-edge safety features and the availability of a fuel-efficient hybrid option, the Sonata emerges as the more prudent choice. Conversely, buyers seeking a vehicle with a refreshed, overtly sporty aesthetic and a more distinct presence on the road may find the K5 to be their ideal companion.

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