Wagons

Wagons have cargo capacity comparable to that of SUVs, yet they offer better overall performance and fuel economy — plus they’re easier to park and drive on tight streets.

Unlike in decades past, when wagons were considered frumpy image-killers, they’ve now become badges of a so-called “active lifestyle” — that nebulous expression carmakers and other companies use to describe people they think are hip and have a lot going on, whether they’re urban or outdoorsy.

The definition of a wagon has been morphing in recent years, as manufacturers build smaller, more car-like SUVs and larger, more truck-like cars. Like convertibles, they remain a small segment of the overall market in the U.S., although they’re hugely popular in Europe.

The curious R63 AMG is one of a new breed that blurs the line between SUV and wagon.