While the car market is dominated by SUVs, the humble estate car remains an excellent choice for buyers who prioritise space, practicality, and a comfortable driving experience. Offering boot capacity that often rivals or exceeds that of an equivalent SUV, estates provide cavernous load areas perfect for family holidays, trips to the tip, or carrying bulky equipment. Because they are lower to the ground, they also tend to be more engaging to drive and more fuel-efficient than their high-riding counterparts, making them superb all-rounders for the real world.
The modern estate car is more diverse than ever. Whether you're looking for a premium model with a high-quality interior and sharp handling like the BMW 3 Series, a value-focused workhorse with unbeatable space like the Skoda Superb, or a cutting-edge electric vehicle such as the Volkswagen ID.7, there's an estate to suit almost any need and budget. This guide highlights the best options available, covering everything from efficient hybrids to powerful performance models, helping you find the perfect load-lugger for your lifestyle.
The cars in this guide have been carefully selected based on a combination of factors to give you a comprehensive overview of the best models on the market. Our recommendations are driven by the detailed road tests and expert ratings from the CarGurus UK team. We also incorporate real-world ownership satisfaction through user reviews submitted on CarGurus UK. Finally, we analyse market data from thousands of listings on CarGurus UK to identify which models consistently offer the best deals, ensuring our top picks represent not just great cars, but great value for money, too.
The Best Estate Cars for 2025
- 2025 Volkswagen ID.7
- 2025 Skoda Superb
- 2025 BMW 3 Series
- 2025 Vauxhall Astra
- 2025 Seat Leon
- 2025 Volvo V60
- 2025 Toyota Corolla
- 2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- 2025 Volkswagen Passat
- 2025 Audi A6 e-tron
1. 2025 Volkswagen ID.7
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 42.6% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers lots of space for the money | The BMW i4 is more exciting to drive |
| Extremely quiet and refined to drive | Heat pump is a cost option |
| Improved infotainment system compared with other ID models | Some touchscreen controls are still fiddly to use |
The Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer is a large, pure-electric estate car that is also available in saloon form. As an estate, it's a hugely practical choice, offering limo-like legroom for rear passengers thanks to its long body and electric-specific design. The boot is a vast 605 litres, which is significantly more than the 532 litres you get in the saloon and compares favourably with many electric SUVs. There's even flexibility in the position of the rear seat back depending on whether you are prioritising luggage or passengers. The interior feels noticeably more upmarket and classier than other VW ID models, with comfortable seats and a slick dashboard design, although some of the touch-sensitive controls can still be irritating to use.
Designed as a long-distance cruiser, the ID.7 excels at providing a comfortable and refined driving experience. It’s exceptionally quiet, with very little wind or motor noise, making it a relaxing car for motorway journeys. The standard rear-wheel-drive model produces 282bhp, which is plenty for confident progress, while a more powerful 335bhp four-wheel-drive GTX version is also available for those who want extra performance. While official range figures are impressive at 372 miles, expect a real-world range of around 300 miles from the 77kWh battery, which is still very competitive. And if that's not enough, even greater range can be achieved with the 86kWh battery in the GTX Plus 4MOTION and Pro S Match Plus trims. =
The CarGurus Verdict: "The VW ID.7 is a real sophisticate, from the way it looks to the way it feels on the road and the tech it delivers." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Volkswagen ID.7 review
2. 2025 Skoda Superb
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Outstanding interior space and practicality | Interior design and quality not a match for more premium rivals |
| Well-equipped across all trims | A BMW 5 Series is more fun to drive |
| Comfortable ride and quiet cabin for long-distance cruising | Reduced boot space in the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model |
The Skoda Superb has long been the benchmark for anyone needing a vast amount of space without a premium price tag, and this latest version continues that tradition. As an estate car, its practicality is almost unbeatable; the boot measures a cavernous 690 litres, which is more than you’ll find in rivals like the Volkswagen Passat or the more expensive Mercedes E-Class. Rear passenger space is equally vast, with limo-like legroom that makes it perfect for growing families. It’s a car that majors on functionality, delivering a level of space and usability that few cars this side of a van-based MPV can match.
It’s not just about space, though. The Superb is an incredibly comfortable and refined car, making it a great long-distance cruiser. The entry-level 1.5-litre petrol engine with 148bhp is smooth, quiet, and can return up to 56.5mpg, while the 2.0-litre diesel is an excellent choice for high-mileage drivers. If a plug-in hybrid is your preference, the Superb iV will travel a claimed 70 miles on a single charge. All models are well-equipped, with even the entry-level SE Technology trim getting a large 13.1-inch touchscreen, heated seats, and a reversing camera. It might not have the badge appeal or the sharpest handling of some rivals, but for sheer value, comfort, and outright practicality, the Superb Estate is in a class of its own.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It offers more space than premium rivals at a significantly lower price, and its practicality beats most if not all other estate cars for load-lugging ability." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our full Skoda Superb review
3. 2025 BMW 3 Series
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.7% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sharp steering and agile handling | Sporty suspension makes for a firm ride |
| Plug-in hybrid offers low running costs | Not as roomy as some cheaper mainstream rivals |
| Beautifully finished cabin | Restricted engine choice if you want a manual gearbox |
The BMW 3 Series has long been the benchmark for sporty executive cars, and the Touring estate version adds a welcome dose of practicality to the mix. While its 500-litre boot isn't the largest in its class, it offers a more flexible load space for family life, expanding to 1,510 litres with the 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats down. The 3 Series also boasts one of the best cabins at this price point, with plush materials, attractive details, and a level of fit and finish that is beyond reproach. There’s enough space in the rear seats for a pair of tall adults to sit comfortably, making it a stylish and high-quality choice for carrying passengers.
True to BMW's reputation, the 3 Series Touring is terrific to drive, with sharp steering and agile handling that sets it apart from rivals. This sportiness does result in a firm ride, but optional adaptive suspension can improve comfort. Engine choice is limited to petrol and plug-in petrol hybrids, with the 330e boasting up to 61 miles of pure electric range, though boot space drops to 410 litres. For those wanting serious performance, the M340i xDrive petrol model delivers a thrilling 386bhp, as well as standard all-wheel-drive system for extra traction. Real petrolheads will be attracted to the halo M3 Touring, pumping out 543bhp and boasting a top speed of 186mph.
The CarGurus Verdict: "On balance, the 3 Series still stacks up as the best small executive estates out there." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full BMW 3 Series review
4. 2025 Vauxhall Astra
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.9%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Packed with standard equipment | So-so to drive |
| Clever battery tech | Some rivals do better for range |
| Long warranty | Not the cheapest |
It’s often overlooked in the pantheon of great estates, but frankly, the Astra shouldn’t be. Vauxhall’s handsome mid-range family hatchback has spawned an equally attractive family-sized wagon, that benefits from a choice of mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric power. With a mild hybrid powertrain, the Astra can sometimes feel a little underpowered — especially when it’s fully loaded — but as a plug-in, it makes much more sense, with enough power and smooth delivery to make this an effortless car to drive.
It’s also comfortable, with taut but smooth suspension that irons out all but the worst lumps and bumps, and means the Astra feels right at home on the motorway. And Vauxhall has thought carefully about the Astra’s interior, giving it extra usability thanks to the separate row of climate control buttons that mean you don’t have to rely on the touchscreen infotainment system to adjust the temperature.
Stylish design means it looks good inside, too, even in the entry-level model. Further back, of course, there’s a roomy 516-litre boot in the plug-in models, while petrol Astras can boast a whopping 597 litres.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Astra in Sports Tourer estate form has a slightly longer wheelbase than the hatchback, to the benefit of rear legroom." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Vauxhall Astra review
5. 2025 Seat Leon
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.9 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.3% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.0 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Blends a sporty driving experience with a comfortable ride | Can't quite match its Audi or Golf cousins for interior quality |
| Plenty of space for people and luggage | Reputation for reliability merely average |
| Fuel-efficient engines | Bare-minimum warranty arrangement |
While its hatchback sibling is impressive, the Seat Leon Estate is a standout for those needing maximum practicality without sacrificing style. Its crisp lines conceal a hugely practical cabin with impressive rear legroom and a massive 620-litre boot, which is larger than rivals like the Ford Focus Estate and even its Volkswagen Golf Estate cousin. This space is made even more usable by a clever adjustable floor. Do be aware, though, that choosing the plug-in hybrid reduces boot space to (a still-very-practical) 470 litres.
Crucially, the Leon Estate doesn't lose the sporty driving experience of the hatchback; it’s just as poised and precise, making it one of the most involving and enjoyable estates to drive. This sporty character is helped by a range of perky engines, from efficient 1.5-litre petrols offering up to 53.3mpg to a frugal diesel capable of up to 61.4mpg, while the plug-in hybrid boasts up to 82 miles of fully electric range. While the interior quality isn't quite as premium as its Audi or VW relatives, it's solidly built and well-equipped.
The CarGurus Verdict: "With the same mechanical bits and bobs as brilliant cars like the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf, the Seat Leon is off to a pretty good start in life." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Seat Leon review
6. 2025 Volvo V60
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 28.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Crisp styling inside and out | VW Passat and Skoda Superb offer bigger boots |
| Supreme long-distance comfort | A 3 Series is more exciting to drive |
| An interesting alternative to a BMW or Mercedes | Interior quality good rather than sparkling |
The Volvo V60 is a deeply desirable estate car that blends Scandinavian style with the practicality that is a hallmark of the Swedish brand. Inside, the cabin is a masterclass in understated design, offering excellent comfort and build quality. While it may not have the largest boot in the entire class, its 648 litres of space with the seats up is more than competitive against premium rivals like the Audi A4 Avant and BMW 3 Series Touring. Where the V60 really shines is in passenger space, offering more headroom and legroom for those in the back than its German counterparts. All models feature a powered tailgate and a slick, portrait-style 9-inch touchscreen, though some simple tasks can require a bit too much menu-diving.
On the road, the V60 is an effortless long-distance cruiser. The engine line-up includes an efficient 2.0-litre mild hybrid petrol engine boasting 194bhp, and a pair of plug-in hybrid models for those focused on low running costs. Both these options come with a 19kWh battery that's good for 57 miles on pure electric power, offering the potential of cheap commuting for anyone with home charging. While it may not be as engaging to drive as a BMW 3 Series Touring, its laid-back and secure handling will appeal to buyers who value a relaxing driving experience.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It might not be an exceptionally exciting car to drive, but if you value space, sophisticated design, and the ability to effortlessly waft away miles then the Volvo V60 is well worth considering." - Kyle Fortune, contributor
Read our full Volvo V60 review
7. 2025 Toyota Corolla
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 42.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very well equipped | The 2.0-litre is much pricier than the 1.8 |
| The Touring Sport estate is roomy | Surprisingly cramped rear seats and boot in the hatchback |
| Efficient and economical hybrid powertrains |
The Corolla Touring Sports estate is a significant step up in practicality from its hatchback sibling. It boasts more rear legroom and a generous boot that’s squared-off for easy loading. Practical highlights include a flexible load space with a dog-friendly finish, and kick-sensor for opening the boot when your hands are full. The 1.8-litre hybrid model offers a substantial 596 litres of boot space, while the 2.0-litre version provides a still very useful 581 litres. The driving position is comfortable, and every Corolla benefits from electric lumbar adjustment, making it great for the long journeys.
There are two 'self-charging' hybrid powertrains available: a 1.8-litre with 138bhp and a more powerful 2.0-litre with 193bhp. Both are impressively efficient, particularly around town where the car frequently runs on electric power. In real-world driving, you can expect to see well over 45mpg from either engine, with the 1.8-litre capable of getting close to its official 63mpg figure with a gentle right foot. The Corolla’s light steering, supple ride, and refined powertrain make it a pleasant and reassuring car to drive in any situation.
The CarGurus Verdict: "This is a Toyota hybrid that’s recommendable not just for being a solid financial case, but also for being a likeable and even enjoyable car to live with." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our full Toyota Corolla review
8. 2025 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 25.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Serene comfort for long journeys | Expensive for private buyers |
| Broad range of engine options | Bewildering array of trims and options |
| Traditional feel combines with high-tech equipment | E450 d is astonishingly expensive |
Like its rivals the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6, the latest Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a technological tour de force. With huge touchscreens, disco-like ambient lighting and some of the most advanced safety systems on the market, it feels as much of a super-computer as it does a car. What's so impressive, then, is that despite all of this tech, the E-Class still feels like a traditional Mercedes-Benz estate car.
And that, of course, means that it has an enormous boot. To make the most of that, you'll need to go for one of the mild hybrid engines (both petrol and diesel are offered) rather than the plug-in hybrids, because only then can you enjoy the full 615 litres of boot space on offer. Go for the PHEV and you get a 460-litre capacity instead, although the 19.5kWh battery is good for up to 68 miles in two-wheel-drive form. Classy, comfortable, and relatively understated, the latest E-Class Estate is a tremendous family wagon.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Mercedes E-Class differentiates itself from its rivals with a somewhat traditional, stately feel and an impressively varied diesel-powered lineup, despite also featuring cutting-edge tech – and that’s a hard balance to strike." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Mercedes-Benz E-Class review
9. 2025 Volkswagen Passat
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 21.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Posh-feeling interior | Infotainment system is difficult to navigate |
| Generous standard equipment | A few strange ergonomic issues |
| Lots of space for people and luggage | Doesn’t come cheap |
Now offered exclusively as an estate, the VW Passat has grown significantly compared with its predecessors, making it a hugely practical choice. Rear-seat passengers have vast amounts of legroom, and the boot is enormous, offering 690 litres of space in mild-hybrid models (510 litres in the eHybrid). The interior quality is a cut above most mainstream rivals, and even the entry-level Life trim comes generously equipped with features like three-zone climate control, heated and massaging front seats, and a powered tailgate.
The 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 148bhp, is smooth and refined, but it can feel strained when getting the large Passat up to speed. A better option is the 1.5-litre plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with a combined output of 201bhp and a 19.7kWh battery with a maximum range of 82 miles on electric power alone. The Passat's driving experience is solid and secure, which is ideal for a family car. The biggest drawback is the car's infotainment system; while the graphics are impressive, its reliance on a touchscreen for almost all functions makes it complicated and distracting to use on the move.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Of the estate cars that remain on the market, the Passat is one of the best. It delivers big on space and practicality, with an enormous boot and huge passenger space." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Volkswagen Passat review
10. 2025 Audi A6 e-tron
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 37.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good to drive | Not cheap |
| Impressive range figures | Interior isn't as sumptuous as you might expect |
| Lots of tech | Rivals are more practical |
The Audi A6 Avant e-tron is the estate version of the German brand's latest luxury electric car. Inside, it's a technological showcase, dominated by a huge 14.5-inch infotainment screen and a digital driver’s display. However, its practicality is a mixed bag for a large estate; the 502-litre boot is useful, but it's smaller than what you'll find in a BMW i5 Touring (570 litres) or a Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer (605 litres). Still, you get levers in the boot to easily drop the rear seats and a small 'frunk' for cable storage. Passengers will find the cabin spacious and comfortable, but some of the plastics lower down feel a bit of a letdown given the A6's premium positioning.
On the move, the A6 e-tron is a thoroughly slick and refined car that’s a pleasure to drive. It feels satisfyingly hefty and predictable, making it a delightfully unflappable and cosseting car for covering long distances. Performance is strong, with even the entry-level 282bhp (322bhp in launch control) model feeling quick. The A6 Avant Performance also delivers an impressive official WLTP range of up to 437 miles with the larger 94.9kWh battery, which is one of the best in its class for the price.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Audi A6 e-tron is a thoroughly slick executive offering. It’s lovely to drive, a pleasure to sit in, and although we think the boot should be a bit bigger it is otherwise very practical." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Audi A6 e-tron review
FAQs
Which estate car has the biggest boot?
For maximum boot space, the Skoda Superb and the new Volkswagen Passat are the leaders, with both offering a cavernous 690 litres of luggage capacity in their non-hybrid forms.
Are there any good electric estate cars?
Yes, the choice of electric estates is growing. The Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer is a standout option, offering 605 litres of boot space and a real-world range of around 300 miles. For a more premium choice, the Audi A6 e-tron Avant provides impressive technology and a range of up to 437 miles, though its 502-litre boot is smaller. A used MG5 is another contender, and great value to boot.
Which estate car is the most fun to drive?
The BMW 3 Series Touring is widely regarded as the driver's choice in the estate car class, thanks to its sharp steering, agile handling, and powerful engine options. For a more affordable but still engaging drive, the Seat Leon Estate blends a sporty feel with everyday comfort and practicality.
What are the best plug-in hybrid (PHEV) estate cars?
Several estates offer excellent plug-in hybrid options with long electric ranges. The VW Passat eHybrid and Seat Leon e-Hybrid can both travel up to 82 miles on electric power alone. The Skoda Superb iV is another strong contender with a claimed 70-mile electric range, while the premium BMW 330e offers up to 61 miles.
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