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The BMW 3 Series Touring takes the crown in our showdown of estate cars, blending driving joy with family-friendly practicality like a pro! We tested the BMW 3 Series Touring, BMW 5 Series Touring, and Skoda Octavia Estate, evaluating their space, style, and driving delight. The 3 Series stood out for its sporty handling and engaging drive, proving that you can have your cake and eat it too—plenty of room without sacrificing fun behind the wheel!
Estate cars, with their charming blend of practicality and fun, are perfect for those who need space without sacrificing driving joy. Whether you’re carting kids, dogs, or a weekend's worth of shopping, these beauties are ready for action!
Estate cars, also known as station wagons, are characterised by their elongated body styles, spacious back seats, and generous boot space compared to their sedan counterparts. They’re designed for versatility and ease of access, typically featuring a hatchback-style rear door that opens wide for maximum loading capabilities.
What sets estate cars apart is their unique ability to combine the best of both worlds: the sporty handling often associated with sedans while offering much more room for passengers and cargo. This makes them ideal for families, adventurers, or anyone who can’t quite commit to a full-on SUV.
| Model | Description | Score | Hidden Gems | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 3 Series Touring | A stylish, fun-loving estate that doesn’t skimp on space or performance. | 9 |
Score: 9
Price: From £43,930
The BMW 3 Series Touring takes the crown for its perfect balance of fun and functionality, making it a beloved choice among driving enthusiasts and families alike.
The precise steering and sporty dynamics make every drive feel like a spirited adventure.
All in all, the 3 Series Touring is a top choice for those who want an engaging drive while still enjoying the practicality of an estate car. Explore the BMW 3 Series Touring and compare its trims.
Score: 8.5
Price: From £54,535
The larger BMW 5 Series Touring is a real heavyweight champion in the estate arena, offering a blend of luxury, space, and performance.
The sheer luxury and space make it a prime contender for family trips that feel like a slice of first-class travel.
For those who prefer a touch of class alongside practicality, the 5 Series Touring is hard to beat. Learn more about the BMW 5 Series Touring and see how it compares to other trims.
Score: 8
Price: From £27,810
The Skoda Octavia Estate is the value champion, packing a punch with its impressive boot space and practicality without breaking the bank.
Unbeatable boot space means you’ll never have to leave that extra suitcase behind.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly estate that doesn’t skimp on practicality, look no further than the Skoda Octavia Estate.
Score: 8
Price: From £38,070
Volvo's V60 is a safe bet, pun intended, for families that prioritise safety and style in equal measure.
Stylish aesthetics combined with unmatched emphasis on safety makes the V60 a crowd favourite.
The V60 combines the grace of Scandinavian design with family-friendly practicality, making it a truly appealing choice.
Score: 7.5
Price: From £37,730
The Audi A4 Avant offers sophistication and technology fit for the modern driver, ensuring a premium experience at every turn.
With its elegant aesthetic and tech-savvy features, the A4 Avant stands out on the road.
The A4 Avant is an excellent choice for those who want luxury and comfort, making every journey feel upscale.
For those in search of the best of the best estate cars, the BMW 3 Series Touring and 5 Series Touring lead the pack. The former is all about the joy of driving with practical space, while the latter brings luxury and room galore, proving that driving should always be pleasurable, even when loaded up with family and gear. To explore more about these top models, check out BMW’s finest offerings.
| From £43,930 |
| BMW 5 Series Touring | Luxury, space, and a driving experience that’s as smooth as butter! | 8.5 |
| From £54,535 |
| Skoda Octavia Estate | Big on space and even bigger on value – the best of both worlds! | 8 |
| From £27,810 |
| Volvo V60 | A stylish and safe estate perfect for the family-oriented driver. | 8 |
| From £38,070 |
| Audi A4 Avant | An estate that combines style, technology, and comfort in one refined package. | 7.5 |
| From £37,730 |