Days where you’d get a half-dozen kids, along with mom, dad and grandma, into a huge American station wagon are long gone. Replaced first by the ‘80s minivan, the ‘90s SUV and the ‘00s crossovers, big wagons fell out of favor and haven’t recovered. And not because they’ve lost any utility in the meantime. No, a station wagon is one of the most efficient forms of transport, with 80 percent of a minivan’s capability without the stigma. Or less of a stigma, anyway.
Despite its recent focus on SUVs and crossovers, Mercedes-Benz has always had at least one wagon in its North American portfolio over the years. Even models from 30 years ago are incredibly popular, with fastidious owners who spend whatever’s needed to keep them on the road. The company is hoping that its latest-generation of big wagon will be as popular in 2041.
The current E-Class already offers a wide range of body styles – sedan, coupe, convertible – and powertrains – V6, V8, turbo-diesel – but why not add another to the mix?
Mercedes-Benz gave the Wagon some good bones to build on. The latest E-Class is easily the class-leader in the segment, with the right mix of technology, response and solidity that were the company’s hallmarks for so many years. From the B-pillar forward, the Wagon is completely identical to the sedan. Same great athletic looks, same mechanicals underneath.
EXPANSIVE CARGO AREA, SEATING FOR SEVEN
It’s at the back where the important changes have been made. First, the body itself is an inch longer than the sedan, with a relatively upright rear hatch. The resulting cargo area holds 20.5 cu. ft., and a huge 68.9 cu. ft. with the rear seats folded flat. Mercedes-Benz made sure to include all manner of tie-downs, rails and nets to keep your belongings from flying around.
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