10 Modern Surf Wagons

2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen rear 3/4 ・ Photo by Benjamin Hunting

Surf culture conjures up a very specific aesthetic, although it can be hard to define — in some cases, it’s very much a matter of “you know it when you see it.” That said, a commitment to the surfing lifestyle doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re stuck with an aging, unreliable ride. There are a few virtues that are timeless, such as good looks, affordability, and great cargo capacity. More modern conveniences, such as reliable all-wheel drive systems, enable the go-anywhere attitude that make it easy to get to the beach and catch a wave whenever the urge strikes.

Let’s take a look at ten vehicles that evoke the spirit of surf culture. Even if the actual looks are something of a stretch, these cars offer up-to-date functionality that more than make up for bending the rules when it comes to authenticity.

1) 2016 Toyota Prius v

The 2016 Toyota Prius v is a wagon that represents a valuable addition to the brand’s hybrid lineup, helping to elevate the Prius nameplate from its polarizing origins to a mainstream option. A total of 134 horsepower is provided by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired to an electric motor and continuously variable transmission, for maximum efficiency. The 2016 Prius v is perfect for outdoor athletes who understand the importance of preserving the environment, offering fuel mileage of up to 44 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, which is a little less than a regular Prius because of the additional weight. The Prius v makes the most of that space with optional factory cargo storage, and aftermarket roof racks are available for carrying boards. Looks might not be the Prius v’s strength, but its reduced environmental impact makes a statement.

2) 2016 Volvo V60 Polestar

Before we get into the details of the 2016 Volvo V60 Polestar, we need to say this: If anything here appeals to you, you should probably go order one now. This extremely limited edition of Volvo’s V60 station wagon comes in an exclusive bright blue that’s reminiscent of the biggest waves on the sunniest days, and it’s more than capable of getting you to the water as quickly as possible. The Polestar (also offered as an S60 sedan) offers 345 horsepower from its turbocharged six-cylinder engine, along with a paddle-shift automatic transmission, all-wheel drive for easy access to remote beaches, and an upgraded suspension for great handling. At around $60,000, the 2016 Volvo V60 Polestar is admittedly pricier than many options on this list, but it may be as close as you can come to surfing on four wheels.

Photo by Volvo

3) 2015 Nissan Juke NISMO RS

Nissan seems unsure whether its 2015 Juke NISMO RS is a crossover or a hatchback, but what’s certain is that it offers some of the best characteristics of both categories in an attention-getting package. The Juke NISMO RS features a tuned, 215-horsepower version of the Juke’s 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and offers the option of a continuously variable transmission or a six-speed manual. Upgraded steering, suspension and brakes increase the Juke NISMO RS’ potential for adventure, especially when the optional all-wheel drive is selected. Exterior choices are limited to white, black, and silver on the NISMO RS edition of the Juke, but the car’s aggressive lines still shine through. Have your friends climb in the surprisingly roomy backseat, toss your gear in the hatch, and you’re good to go.

Photo by Nissan USA

4) 2015 Ford Flex

If any vehicle on this list actually wants to be a modern surf wagon, it might be the 2015 Ford Flex. Though it’s technically a large crossover, it has wagon-like functionality and a retro look that’s definitely unique. The Flex offers seating for seven (with a second-row bench) or six (with optional captain’s chairs) and plenty of cargo room. The second row can also host a refrigerated console to keep your post-waves drinks and snacks at the ready. The Flex can be ordered with a naturally-aspirated V-6 engine that yields 285 horsepower from its 3.5 liters, or a twin-turbo six-cylinder EcoBoost mill that boosts output to 365 horsepower. Both come with a six-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is either optional (V-6) or standard (EcoBoost).

Photo by Ford

5) 2016 Subaru Forester

The 2016 Subaru Forester is a compact sport utility vehicle that’s ideal for outdoor adventures of all types. It’s long been a favorite of athletes in northern climates, but there’s no reason why the Forester shouldn’t wear a surfboard on the roof instead of a snowboard. Most of the 2016 Forester is carried over from 2015, including its choice of naturally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinder engines, which can provide up to 32 highway mpg even though all Foresters come with all-wheel drive. The Forester also provides comfortable accommodations and some of the best cargo capacity in the class. For 2016, Subaru has added new safety features and a new touch-screen sound system, but the Forester remains an affordable, efficient vehicle that’s as eager to get to the beach as you are.

6) 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

The Wrangler has certainly earned its reputation for go-anywhere fun, and the 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is even more appealing because unlike its smaller counterpart, it can comfortably seat up to five passengers. The open-air appeal of the Wrangler is unparalleled thanks to its choice of removable tops, which can make the trip to the shore as much fun as the destination (and it’ll be easy to dry off on the way home). The utilitarian interior is hard to mess up, so no need to fret about stray sand getting tracked in. All 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimiteds come with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that makes a capable 285 horsepower, standard four-wheel drive, and the choice of a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

Photo by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles

7) 2016 Honda HR-V

Honda’s got its affordable SUV game down pat, and the 2016 HR-V is new to the hot subcompact category, slotting below the popular CR-V. The Honda HR-V comes with a modest 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 141 horsepower and offers fuel mileage of up to 28 mpg city, 35 mpg highway. Buyers can get a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission, and all-wheel drive is an option, to help the HR-V cruise along the coast with ease. The backseat is roomy for a subcompact SUV, and Honda’s provided one of the biggest cargo areas in the class. The 2016 Honda HR-V proves that a safe, reliable and attractive modern surf wagon doesn’t have to break the bank…or even be a wagon.

Photo by Honda

8) 2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen

One of the rare true wagons on this list, the 2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen definitely earns its place, if not for the brand’s role in surf culture, than for this long-wheelbase Golf’s own merits. True, it’s not an aircooled bus or a dune buggy, but the Golf SportWagen provides great looks and enough modern amenities to make up for its lack of nostalgia. New for 2015, the Golf SportWagen offers either a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder that makes 170 horsepower, or a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel with 150 horsepower but more torque and better fuel mileage. The Golf SportWagen boasts a sporty driving experience like that of its namesake hatchback, with better interior space and distinctive good looks. A vintage Beetle will always be a welcome sight at the beach, but the Golf SportWagen is a solid modern alternative.

Photo by Benjamin Hunting

9) 2015 Mini Cooper Countryman

The 2015 MINI Cooper Countryman, which was added to the MINI lineup in 2011, is the automaker’s first sport utility vehicle. This compact SUV features styling that’s both retro and timeless, and would look right at home with a couple of boards strapped to its roof. The 2015 Countryman features a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 121 horsepower, or an upgraded turbocharged version of that engine for 181 horsepower. The MINI Cooper Countryman is a great option for a surf wagon on the smaller side, while still providing plenty of room for friends and all their equipment. The rear gate offers ready access to cargo, and the low roof makes it easy to strap gear on top. Optional all-wheel drive enhances the Countryman’s functionality.

10) 2016 BMW X1

The 2016 BMW X1 is a luxury compact SUV that’s been fully redesigned for this year. It’s a good option for surfers and other athletes who need roof and hatch space for gear, but also want to indulge a little while cruising to the beach. Traditionally, a BMW might not seem like a popular choice for this purpose, but the X1 offers the right functionality along with good power and capability. Plus, it’s comfortable, and it’ll provide a relaxing trip home after a day of getting pounded by the waves. The 2016 X1 features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 228 horsepower, paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission, as well as standard all-wheel drive for off-road ease. Plenty of luxury features are included with the X1 to coddle up to five happily exhausted passengers.

Photo by BMW Media