ESTATE OF THE NATION
Over the past few years there has been a seismic shift away from the traditional family hatchbacks and estates towards SUVs and 4x4s. It’s true that the added ground clearance and raised driving position is preferred by some, but to paraphrase a wise man, you can’t escape the law of physics and a higher centre of gravity doesn’t always translate into an engaging drive. So like back in the day, I’ve chosen my favourite load luggers that whilst oozing practicality can still put a smile on your face when the going gets twisty.
SKODA FABIA ESTATE Not so long ago it was possible to buy estate versions of both the Renault Clio and the Peugeot 207, however as those ranges have evolved, the estate variants have been dropped, to be replaced by mini-SUVs. Skoda, however, have kept faith and the elongated version of the popular Fabia is a very useful little car.
That is certainly apparent the first time you climb into the cabin of the new Fabia as you notice how incredibly light and airy the cabin feels. The seating position is quite elevated which helps to give the feeling that maybe the second generation of the Fabia is not the small city car you were expecting. The boot is as large as you can expect from a car with these dimensions and becomes even more practical with the back seats folded down. Ride quality is very smooth compared to other cars in this sector and although the Fabia has a relatively high centre of gravity, it is no slouch through the twisty bits. It cruised effortlessly on the motorway and was comfortable at keeping up in the outside lane.
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KIA OPTIMA ESTATE Whenever anyone asks me to recommend them a car I generally answer with whatever the most compatible Kia is. The reasoning being the warranty they offer. This means if friends and family buy a car and then have a major issue after six or so months then it is covered and not my fault for not foreseeing the issue. These days it seems the phrase is a bit old hat and when Kia unveiled their new family load-lugger, it was termed a “Sports Wagon” instead. Whilst fashion hasn’t completely taken over function in the design of the Optima SW it has definitely left its mark, the curved body mean that the boot isn’t perhaps as big as it could be but the lines and
