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Step 1
Evaluate your particular situation. A large family has different needs than a couple without children. Determine what options are desirable and the budget you are working with. Station wagons are generally priced lower than SUVs, so you can stretch your dollar and still get a great model with many options.
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Step 2
Examine the features. Since station wagons pack tons of cargo space, a hatchback, seating for five adults and often all-wheel drive, choosing a "grocery getter" over a gas-guzzling SUV is a no-brainer. Some luxury station wagon models even offer heated rear seats, heated steering wheels and various automatic sensors.
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Step 3
Ponder performance. Riding in a station wagon is a smoother ride than taking a drive in an SUV. Choose a model of station wagon that can take to the back hills of the country if off-road driving is a must. Station wagons combine versatility and gas economy.
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Step 4
Think about safety. Antilock brakes, airbags and daylight running lights can make mothers breathe sighs of relief. A lower height and wider wheel base also helps prevent a station wagon from being edged off the road in high winds and icy conditions. The lower height also gives a station wagon better turning ability than an SUV.
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Step 5
Drive in style. Sleek designs and curvier frames have made station wagons aesthetically pleasing. Some station wagons can even be mistaken for a sports vehicle because of their styling.
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Step 6
Test-drive one. Pick a couple of your favorite station wagons, and take each one for a spin before making your final choice.
