Are Wagons Truly Making a Comeback?

Consider this: last year, wagons comprised a mere 1% of the 15.5 million vehicles sold in the U.S. The lion’s share of these sales belonged to a single model—the Subaru Outback—which alone accounted for over 160,000 units. In stark contrast, less than 5,000 units of other wagon models were sold nationwide, representing a scant 0.03% of all new car sales. To put this in perspective, more Americans (over 6,000) opted for a new Rolls-Royce in 2023 than chose an authentic wagon. Projections even suggested that by the decade’s end, annual wagon sales could dwindle to fewer than 500 units, while SUVs were expected to surpass the 10 million mark.

Yet, the tides of automotive preference are seldom static.

What’s Fueling This Shift?

Enter the Millennials and Gen Zers—a cohort known for defying parental norms and carving out unique identities. For many, the wagon’s allure lies in its blend of practicality and performance. Unlike their bulkier SUV counterparts, wagons offer a lower profile, enhanced speed, and a driving experience that’s both refined and eco-conscious. It’s not just the archetypal old-money moms in yoga pants gravitating towards wagons; a diverse and discerning audience is emerging.

Which Automakers Are Leading This Revival?

Several manufacturers have taken note, reintroducing and revamping wagon models to cater to this burgeoning interest.

BMW’s Bold Move: The M5 Touring Wagon

BMW is set to reintroduce the M5 Touring Wagon to the U.S. market. This marks the first time American consumers will have access to this model, with a starting price of $122,675. Under the hood, the M5 Touring boasts a formidable 717-horsepower, 738 lb-ft plug-in hybrid powertrain, anchored by an electrified twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8. BMW claims a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds, though enthusiasts anticipate even swifter acceleration. With a top speed limited to 155 mph (or 190 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package) and the capability to travel 25 miles on pure electric power at speeds up to 87 mph, the M5 Touring seamlessly marries performance with efficiency.

Audi’s Powerhouse: The RS6 Avant Performance

Audi’s 2024 RS6 Avant Performance starts at $126,895 and stands as the brand’s most potent internal combustion offering to date, delivering 621 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse accelerates from 0-60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph, extendable to 174 mph. Despite its performance credentials, the RS6 Avant doesn’t skimp on practicality, offering 30 cubic feet of cargo space.

Mercedes-Benz’s Swan Song: The E-Class Wagon

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon is poised to be the last AMG wagon powered solely by petrol. Priced starting at $122,250, this high-performance wagon features a 603-horsepower twin-turbo V-8, propelling it from 0-60 mph in just 3.0 seconds. The “Final Edition” model, limited to 999 units, boasts a unique Matt Graphite Grey Magno finish and high-gloss black accents, marking the end of an era for AMG’s petrol-powered wagons.

Volvo’s Versatile V90 Cross Country

For those seeking a blend of luxury and practicality without the six-figure price tag, the 2025 Volvo V90 Cross Country starts at $60,995. Powered by a 295-horsepower supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt hybrid system, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. Notably, it offers one of the highest EPA fuel-economy ratings in the luxury-wagon segment, with 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.

What Does This Mean for the Future of Wagons in America?

The resurgence of the wagon is more than a fleeting trend; it signifies a shift in consumer values. As environmental concerns and urbanization influence purchasing decisions, the demand for vehicles that offer both performance and practicality is on the rise. Wagons, with their unique blend of agility, efficiency, and cargo space, are well-positioned to meet these evolving preferences.

In conclusion, while the station wagon’s heyday may have seemed a relic of the past, its modern reincarnation is capturing the imagination of a new generation. As automakers like BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo continue to innovate within this segment, the wagon’s renaissance serves as a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive world.

The post The Wagon Renaissance: A Surprising Twist in America’s Automotive Tale appeared first on ROI TV.

Why is December the Ideal Month for Car Shopping?

Historically, the final quarter of the year—particularly October through December—has been the optimal period for car purchases. Dealerships aim to meet annual sales targets, prompting them to offer attractive deals to boost sales figures. Additionally, as new models are introduced, dealers are motivated to clear out older inventory, leading to substantial discounts on outgoing models.

What Makes the 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Double Cab a Standout Choice?

For off-road enthusiasts, the 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Double Cab is a formidable contender. This model comes equipped with Toyota’s i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to deliver a robust 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This setup not only ensures powerful performance but also enhances fuel efficiency—a win-win for drivers.

The Tacoma TRD Pro is designed to tackle challenging terrains with ease, thanks to its advanced off-road suspension system. It features 2.5-inch Fox Racing QS3 adjustable internal bypass shocks and hydraulic bump stops, providing improved ride comfort and control during high-speed off-road driving.

Inside, the innovative IsoDynamic Performance seats incorporate integrated shock absorbers, stabilizing occupants during off-road excursions and reducing fatigue over rough terrain. The technology suite is equally impressive, boasting a 14.0-inch center touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a multi-terrain monitor camera system to enhance visibility during off-road maneuvers. Additional features like hill descent control, crawl control, and multiple off-road driving modes (Dirt, Sand, Mud, Snow, Rock, and Auto) optimize performance across various conditions 

How Does the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 Appeal to Luxury Car Buyers?

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 seamlessly blends elegance with performance, making it a compelling choice for luxury car enthusiasts. Its stunning coupe design combines sleek lines with the practicality of a midsize luxury car, borrowing the best design cues from the C-Class and E-Class. The result is a sporty yet elegant profile, featuring frameless windows, a bold grille, and optional AMG styling packages.

Under the hood, the CLE 450 houses a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This configuration offers smooth acceleration, excellent fuel efficiency, and a refined ride, courtesy of its advanced 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.

The interior is a tech enthusiast’s dream, featuring the latest MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch OLED touchscreen. Mercedes’ voice assistant, over-the-air updates, and augmented reality navigation contribute to a futuristic yet user-friendly experience. Comfort is paramount, with heated and ventilated seats, customizable ambient lighting, and an optional Burmester 3D surround sound system enhancing the luxurious feel.

Safety is a priority in the CLE 450, which comes standard with Mercedes’ Driver Assistance Package. This suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

What Savings Are Available on These Models in December?

December presents an opportune moment to purchase these vehicles at reduced prices. Buyers can save up to $6,000 off the MSRP on the 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Double Cab and up to $6,500 on the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450. These substantial savings make December an ideal time to invest in these exceptional vehicles.

How Have Market Shifts Affected Car-Buying Strategies?

While traditional patterns of year-end deals persist, recent market shifts have made finding favorable deals more challenging. Current discounts and incentives are less favorable than pre-pandemic levels, and newer car models are debuting earlier in the year, sometimes even during summer. Therefore, buyers should conduct thorough research to understand the type of car that fits their needs and budget, know its fair market price, and remain flexible by considering new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles. 

What’s the Bottom Line?

The holiday season, particularly December, remains a prime time for car shopping, with dealerships offering significant discounts to meet year-end quotas and clear out inventory. The 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Double Cab and the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 stand out as exceptional choices, offering substantial savings and a host of impressive features. However, given recent market shifts, it’s crucial for buyers to stay informed and flexible to secure the best deals. 

In summary, if you’re in the market for a new vehicle, December offers a window of opportunity to drive home a great deal. Happy car hunting!

The post Unlock December’s Best Car Deals: The Secret to Saving Big on New Models!  appeared first on ROI TV.