Car Rankings: Affordable Full Size Wagons

Ranking of fullsize wagons, generally priced under $30,000. Subaru Outback, Mazda MAZDA5 Wagon, Volvo V50 and more. Rankings based on an in-depth analysis by U.S. News editors of all published auto ratings, reviews and test drives.

Ford Taurus X Image
  • MSRP: $28,270 - $34,175
  • Invoice: $25,958 - $31,272
  • MPG: 17 City / 24 Hwy

#1
2009 Ford Taurus X

With its good power, convenient interior features and great crash test scores, the Ford Taurus X is a good choice for those who put substance over style.

U.S.News Scores
Overall:8.7
Performance:8.0
Exterior:NA
Interior:7.8
Safety:9.9
Reliability:9.0
Volkswagen Passat Wagon Image
  • MSRP: $29,690 - $29,690
  • Invoice: $27,727 - $27,727
  • MPG: 19 City / 28 Hwy

#1
2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon

The 2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon offers two powerful engine options and superb handling, comfortably seats five passengers, has plenty of room for extra cargo, and offers modern styling and ...

U.S.News Scores
Overall:8.7
Performance:8.2
Exterior:8.3
Interior:8.2
Safety:9.3
Reliability:9.0
Mazda Mazda5 Image
  • MSRP: $17,995 - $22,675
  • Invoice: $16,865 - $21,229
  • MPG: 22 City / 28 Hwy

#3
2009 Mazda Mazda5

The Mazda Mazda5 is proof that a little sacrifice can lead to great reward. Combining minivan-like comfort with wagon performance and fuel economy, the Mazda5 is a ...

U.S.News Scores
Overall:8.5
Performance:7.6
Exterior:7.5
Interior:8.0
Safety:9.6
Reliability:7.0
Subaru Outback Image
  • MSRP: $22,295 - $34,795
  • Invoice: $21,020 - $32,284
  • MPG: 20 City / 26 Hwy

#4
2009 Subaru Outback

The 2009 Subaru Outback is a competent alternative to an SUV, thanks to its well-liked all-wheel drive system.  It doesn't match the fuel economy of more conventional ...

U.S.News Scores
Overall:8.4
Performance:8.0
Exterior:8.2
Interior:7.7
Safety:9.9
Reliability:7.0
Kia Rondo Image
  • MSRP: $17,495 - $22,295
  • Invoice: $16,675 - $20,865
  • MPG: 20 City / 27 Hwy

#5
2009 Kia Rondo

The Kia Rondo gives buyers a safe, budget-friendly and versatile option, but others in the class are sportier and have higher resale value. 

U.S.News Scores
Overall:8.3
Performance:7.5
Exterior:6.1
Interior:7.9
Safety:9.7
Reliability:6.0
Volvo V50 Image
  • MSRP: $29,800 - $35,500
  • Invoice: $28,012 - $33,370
  • MPG: 20 City / 28 Hwy

#6
2009 Volvo V50

The 2009 Volvo V50 is stylishly modern and upscale, but its passenger and cargo space is a little cramped. 

U.S.News Scores
Overall:8.2
Performance:7.5
Exterior:9.2
Interior:8.0
Safety:NA
Reliability:6.0
Saab 9-3 Wagon Image
  • MSRP: $31,790 - $44,885
  • Invoice: $30,296 - $42,775
  • MPG: 19 City / 29 Hwy

#7
2009 Saab 9-3 Wagon

The Saab 9-3 SportCombi is for drivers who need a wagon but want a sport sedan and don't mind standing out.

U.S.News Scores
Overall:7.3
Performance:7.1
Exterior:NA
Interior:8.0
Safety:8.3
Reliability:5.0

Unranked: Affordable Full Size Wagons

Our rankings are based on analysis of third party reviews. Sometimes, we are unable to find enough reviews to publish a definitive ranking. Please check back later, as we are constantly updating our reviews.

Honda Stream Image

2010 Honda Stream

MSRP: NA | Invoice: NA | MPG: NA

Subaru Outback Image

2010 Subaru Outback

MSRP: $22,995 - $30,995 | Invoice: $21,663 - $29,024 | MPG: - TBD - City / - TBD - Hwy