2005 AWD Family Wagons Engines

Which wagon/utility would serve you best? There was a time when that depended on what you wanted to do with it. But because of an SUV hangover mentality, people want their vehicles to do everything these days. Any of these would surprise most traditional SUV shoppers who want a break on their monthly fuel bills. Each one has AWD capability that surpassed expectations and is certainly more than adequate for the bad-weather driveability/light-towing duties that are the staple diet of most suburban SUVs. Their track performances prove car-based large-capacity wagons can run circles around truck-based SUVs, which means driving something useful doesn't have to be a penalty. And their cargo-carrying abilities sometimes exceed those of SUVs.

The Cadillac was probably the biggest disappointment of the group. With the highest base and as-tested prices, we looked for things to pick on, but did there have to be so many? It's not as big inside as the exterior suggests, and that V-6 engine is nowhere near as well mannered as it should be when you stand on the gas. It finishes fourth in this bunch.

The B9 Tribeca--well, somebody's got to say it--has a face only a mother could love. We understand the importance of standing out from the crowd when introducing the first Subaru of its size and scope, but do you suppose a more attractive design would've hurt it? Was the ink BMW used to pen the X5, for example, more expensive? Dynamically, the B9 is, uh, benign. Again, that's an easy jab, but unlike other Subaru products (with turbochargers!), our socks are still on after driving this one. We'd hoped for rally-inspired talent and hardware. Maybe there's an STi Tribeca on the way. Until then, third place, despite the sophisticated AWD system.

For style, you gotta love the Man Wagon looks of the Dodge Magnum. It's the family wagon a guy wouldn't be embarrassed to be seen in, easily the hottest of this foursome here in style-conscious Los Angeles. It wouldn't be our high-comfort choice for a long haul, but it'd be a smart-looking and smart-money buy for those who relish the attention and wouldn't mind saving a few bucks doing it. But inside it's just too cheapskate, even for its price point.