1996 European Sport Wagon Comparison Test: Audi, BMW, and Volvo

They should have called them the Audi Aspen, the BMW Snowbird, and the Volvo Sugarbush, because that's where you'll find them.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

From the March 1996 issue of Car and Driver, this comparison test pits three European luxury wagons against each other - the Audi A6, BMW 525i Touring, and Volvo 850 Turbo. Despite significant price differences, the voting of the three staffers was close, with the Volvo 850 Turbo Wagon taking the top spot.

Why it matters

This comparison highlights the growing popularity of high-end European wagons in the mid-1990s, as an alternative to traditional American station wagons and the rising tide of SUVs and minivans. The test showcases the performance, handling, and practicality of these premium haulers, catering to a niche market of enthusiasts seeking an engaging driving experience combined with cargo-carrying capability.

The details

The trio of wagons tested represent radically different design philosophies - the front-wheel-drive, turbocharged Volvo 850 Turbo, the rear-wheel-drive BMW 525i Touring, and the all-wheel-drive Audi A6. While the BMW offered the smoothest drivetrain and best handling, it was hampered by wind noise, limited cargo space, and a high price tag. The Audi impressed with its impeccable road manners and high-quality interior, but lacked the outright performance of the Volvo. Ultimately, the Volvo 850 Turbo's potent turbocharged engine, generous cargo capacity, and value pricing saw it emerge victorious.

  • This comparison test was conducted during the winter in Michigan.
  • The Volvo 850 Turbo Wagon was the quickest of the group, reaching 60 mph in 7.2 seconds and completing the quarter-mile in 15.5 seconds at 90 mph.

The players

Audi A6 Wagon

The Audi A6 Wagon featured a 172-horsepower V6 engine, all-wheel drive, and a well-appointed, wood-lined interior. Despite its leisurely acceleration, the A6's excellent balance, superb road manners, and high-quality fit and finish earned it a second-place finish.

BMW 525i Touring

The BMW 525i Touring was powered by a smooth 189-horsepower inline-six engine and offered impressive handling, but was hampered by wind noise, limited cargo space, and a high price tag that contributed to its third-place finish.

Volvo 850 Turbo Wagon

The Volvo 850 Turbo Wagon emerged victorious, thanks to its potent 222-horsepower turbocharged inline-five engine, generous cargo capacity, and value pricing. Despite some criticisms of its styling and interior, the Volvo's performance and practicality won over the test team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This comparison test showcases the growing appeal of high-performance, premium European wagons in the mid-1990s, as an alternative to traditional family haulers. The Volvo 850 Turbo Wagon emerged as the winner, blending potent turbocharged power, generous cargo capacity, and value pricing, proving that sport wagons can offer an engaging driving experience without sacrificing practicality.