2002 Audi S6 Avant

Automotive Industries, Dec, 2001 by Andrea Wielgat

Recently, a friend cringingly preceded a car advice question with the statement, "I know station wagons are passe, but..."

I should have interrupted him then. For us "young, successful" types, station wagons are just the opposite. Not quite a sedan or SUV, today's station wagons are stylish, functional and fast.

Take the Audi S6 Avant -- definitely a member of the station wagon A-list. It has a 4.2L V-8 capable of 340 hp and 310 pounds-feet of torque at 3,400 rpm that comes to life with only the slightest pressure on the gas pedal. This Audi is fast and easy to drive with an electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission that includes a Tiptronic clutchless shifting system with controls on the steering wheel.

But Audi's most fun station wagon -- or sport wagon if you prefer -- is also practical. With 36-cubic-feet of luggage area, there is plenty of room to haul stuff around. Audi also has equipped this vehicle with its well-honed Quattro all-wheel-drive system and its Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) with hydraulic brake assist.

Additionally, this is one of the best looking wagons around. The S6 Avant has lots of polished aluminum on the outside -- including a double grill and roof rails -- and the traditionally elegant interior that Audi does better than anybody.

But all this doesn't come cheap. The S6 Avant starts at $58,700 in the U.S. Major competitors include the BMW M5 and X5 V-8 and the Mercedes-Benz E55 and ML55.