Motoring - 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.

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

aggressive stance will appeal to buyers that want plenty of space whilst still receiving admiring glances from fellow motorists.

Inside, the dash has that feel we have come to expect from Kia, plenty of soft touch materials along with the high tech dash dominated by the touchscreen. Out on the road the Optima SW feels planted and comfortable and as one would expect the interior is peaceful and serene when cruising in the outside lane of the motorway. The Optima SW really shows how far Kia has come and why they have caused more than a few sleepless nights at brands that are currently perceived as more premium.

BMW 5-SERIES TURING

You may be surprised to know that the 5-series has now been with us for 47 years and the current car is the seventh generation of the dynasty. Gently evolving over the years, the 5-series is still, in my opinion, the go to name for a luxury large family car and the estate or “Touring” variant, as BMW

like to call it, is no doubt the most practical.

Inside the cabin you will find the layout that has been adopted across the BMW family with most of the features of the car being controlled by the dial on the centre console which interfaces the screen in the dashboard. The driving position is typical BMW with the feel of the car being built around you as you are seated low in the cockpit and ensconced rather like a fighter pilot.

Round the back, the large tailgate gives plenty of access to the cavernous boot which should prove to be accommodate the trappings

of most families embarking on a trip away or in my case when I had a 5-series Touring for the weekend, three sets of golf clubs, matching golf trollies and three suitcases for a trip away with the lads.

It’s pretty much a no brainer to spec a 5-series with BMW’s brilliant X-Drive system which intelligently sends power to all 4 wheels, but in a measured manner, so that the wheels with the most grip receive the most torque. This results in an entertaining drive and also the ability to use the 5-series in all climates and terrains (ground clearance allowing obviously).

There is a wide range of engines available but my favourite is also the cheapest. The basic 520 diesel is quick enough to be entertaining but frugal enough to be accessible to most. It’s also the most popular with business users if you are affected by the company car tax rules.

Mark D’Apice