America Didn't Give Up On Wagons. Car Companies Did

Station wagons may have peaked in U.S. sales in 1973, but the article argues the model’s broader popularity hit earlier—citing 47 distinct wagon options in 1964. Today, the segment has shrunk to only about nine or 10 options, as automakers effectively reduced affordable wagons in favor of crossovers and SUVs. It points to safety research from the IIHS, saying occupant benefits level off once a vehicle exceeds average fleet weight, while risks to others continue rising. The piece also links SUV growth with historically low gas prices in the late 1990s, then notes renewed cost concerns as fuel prices climb. It compares the 2027 Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain to the GLE450, highlighting similar everyday cargo space despite big weight differences.