Before the recent boom in interest for SUVs, the estate car was the go-to bodystyle for those who require enhanced levels of practicality, while still looking the part. Better yet, a fast estate car was - and still is - a very sought-after option, particularly for families that weren't quite ready to give up high levels of performance in the name of versatility.
Many of the world's automotive manufacturers are very much aware of this demand and, while out-and-out performance estates are becoming less seen, there are some properly appealing options available in 2025.
In this article, we'll highlight ten of the fastest estate cars your money can buy, ensuring you can maintain your desire for performance, without having to sacrifice everyday usability.
- Skoda Octavia vRS
- Audi RS6
- Ford Focus ST
- BMW M3 Touring
- SEAT Leon CUPRA ST
- Mercedes-AMG C63
- Peugeot 508 SW
- Audi RS4
- Volvo V60
- Volkswagen Golf R
Skoda Octavia vRS Estate
- Top Speed: Maximum of 155mph (limited)
- 0 to 62mph time: As little as 6.5 seconds
Skoda is a brand that is often associated with the words practicality and versatility, so it was only natural that an estate would make up part of its range. As flagship of the ever-reliable Octavia model, vRS variants are packed with a hearty powertrain that delivers a 0 to 62mph acceleration time of around 6.5 seconds, as well as a top speed of 155mph, depending on exact specs.
The most recent fourth-generation variant (pictured) is the first Octavia vRS to offer an intelligent 1.4-litre plug-in hybrid powertrain at launch, which made it very popular amongst company car buyers. It's since been facelifted and its engine range streamlined, so newer fourth-generation models will come with a straight-up 2.0-litre petrol engine. Third-generation Octavia vRS models are just as popular, offering greater diversity in terms of engines, with diesel options also available.
Aside from its potent performance, the vRS is an incredibly good car to live with in day-to-day life. It's not overly noisy (unless asked to be), it's very reliable, it offers fantastic practicality, and it looks the part. What's not to love?
Search Skoda Octavia vRS DealsAudi RS6 Avant
- Top Speed: Maximum of 189mph
- 0 to 62mph time: As little as 3.4 seconds
Arguably one of the most, if not the most, desirable estate cars out there, the RS6 is the ultimate performance machine. Packed with a whopping 4.0-litre V8 engine, it produces over 600bhp and offers an acceleration time of just 3.4 seconds - supercar-killer kind of numbers.
Due to this status and level of performance, the RS6 is better suited to those who have deeper pockets, as the cost of purchase and general maintenance will be significantly more than the majority on this list. However, you'll struggle to find a car that's as comfortable on a race track as it is completing the daily commute - the perfect performance estate.
The RS6 is also a sight to behold, possessing aggressive looks and recognisable styling elements thanks to Audi Sport touches. It's also incredibly well-specced, featuring advanced technologies such as Matrix LED headlights, digital dials, and three infotainment screens as standard.
Search Audi RS6 DealsFord Focus ST Estate
- Top Speed: Maximum of 155mph (limited)
- 0 to 62mph time: As little as 5.8 seconds
Spanning multiple generations, the Ford Focus has long been a go-to choice for many across the UK, thanks to its fantastic versatility and suitability for day-to-day life. While not as common as the hatchback variant of the Focus ST, the Estate version is ideal for those who need improved practicality, while still wanting a taste of the Ford Performance range.
There are two powertrains to choose from, with the most popular being a 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol that puts it 280bhp and a 0 to 62mph time of around 5.8 seconds. This is the same engine that was used in certain variants of the desirable Mustang, so you can rest assured knowing it's up to the fast estate car job.
For those who regularly travel longer distances, there's also a punchy 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel. As expected, it's not quite as engaging as the petrol variant, but with 190bhp and a 0 to 62mph time of 7.7 seconds, it's still plenty fast enough for most - it's noticeably better at towing too, being capable of pulling 1,800kg of braked weight.
Search Ford Focus ST DealsBMW M3 Touring
- Top Speed: Maximum of 186mph
- 0 to 62mph time: As little as 3.2 seconds
Where the likes of Audi are present, BMW typically is too, so it comes as no surprise to see the Bavarian outfit offering a fast estate in the form of the M3 Touring as part of its lineup. However, the introduction of the M3 Touring certainly got some ears perked, with it since becoming one of the most sought-after estates out there.
Equipped with a potent 3.0-litre petrol powertrain, the M3 Touring puts out over 500bhp, making it one of the most powerful options on this list. It also comes with BMW's impressive xDrive all-wheel drive system to enhance the driving experience further, while there's an all-out M3 CS variant that offers even more power for adrenaline-first individuals.
Much like many recent BMW models, its looks split opinions, but no one can deny its overall road presence. It also comes with a variety of clever features, such as an openable rear window to make life even easier when loading items. If the M3 Touring is out of your budget, there are also several standard BMW 3 Series Estates available, such as the M340i.
Search BMW M3 Touring DealsSEAT Leon Cupra ST
- Top Speed: Maximum of 155mph (limited)
- 0 to 62mph time: As little as 4.9 seconds
Adding a bit of Spanish flair to the fast estate market, the SEAT Leon Cupra Sports Tourer (ST) is a great option for style-conscious owners. Its sharp looks aren't all it has to offer though, matching many of its rivals in terms of outright performance and practicality.
There are a number of variants to choose from when it comes to the SEAT Leon Cupra ST lineup, but all come with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol powertrain. The most powerful Cupra R variant offers over 300bhp and a 0 to 62mph time of just 4.9 seconds, while high-spec cars with either the DSG automatic gearbox or the intelligent 4Drive four-wheel drive system make things that little bit sharper.
SEAT has been very generous when it comes to onboard equipment too, with available highlights including heated seats, wireless phone charging, keyless entry and go, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The CUPRA brand broke away from its SEAT siblings more recently too, so if you want something a little newer, a dedicated CUPRA Leon may be appealing.
Search SEAT Leon Cupra DealsMercedes-AMG C63 Estate
- Top Speed: Maximum of 180mph (limited)
- 0 to 62mph time: As little as 3.4 seconds
Another fast estate coming out of Germany, the C63 is Mercedes-Benz' take on this competitive segment. Based on the same foundations as the regular C-Class, the C63 takes things up a notch or two, introducing staggering power levels and even more advanced technology.
If you're considering a pre-2022 model, it will likely come with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol that produces around 500bhp. Due to stricter environmental regulations, Mercedes-AMG has since adapted its powertrain offering, so post-2022 models will come with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that leverages plug-in hybrid technology. Don't worry though, as this powertrain is still as impressive, producing a whopping 670bhp.
Performance aside, the C63 is as advanced as they come, as expected from the German manufacturer. Its spaceship-esque interior is unique, featuring multiple display systems, smartphone integration, and a crisp 13-speaker Burmester surround-sound system. It looks incredible too, so you're sure to turn heads wherever you venture.
Search Mercedes-AMG C63 DealsPeugeot 508 SW Sport Engineered (PSE)
- Top Speed: Maximum of 155mph (limited)
- 0 to 62mph time: As little as 5.2 seconds
Somewhat of a left-field alternative to the typical fast estate, the Peugeot 508 SW is ideal for those who want something a little different. It certainly looks the part, much like many modern-day Peugeot models, while Peugeot Sport's engineers have had their hand in producing a car that can hold its own in terms of performance, too.
As the most powerful car Peugeot has ever produced, the 508 SW PSE comes equipped with a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol unit that produces around 360bhp, allowing it to go from 0 to 62mph in just 5.2 seconds. Yes, these aren't quite RS 6-rivalling numbers, but it's still great fun and is potentially better-suited to day-to-day driving than those fitted with the largest powertrains.
Inside, the 508 SW PSE offers more unique features that are in line with modern design standards. Technology is good across the board, while a 530-litre boot as standard is plenty big enough for most. It does cost more to buy than its closest rivals though, which is something to consider for price-conscious owners.
Search Peugeot 508 SW PSE DealsAudi RS4 Avant
- Top Speed: Maximum of 186mph (limited)
- 0 to 62mph time: As little as 3.7 seconds
It's not just the RS6 Avant that Audi offers up in the fast estate car segment, as the slightly smaller RS4 Avant is also a very viable option. While more compact than its sought-after sibling, the RS4 is still a very attractive car and has been applauded for its agile driving experience and slight advantage in terms of everyday usability.
A 2.9-litre V6 twin-turbo can be found at the heart of every fourth-generation RS4 Avant, producing no less than 444bhp. Opting for a higher-spec RS4 Competition sees you benefit from over 500bhp, making those variants even more appealing for those seeking the ultimate driving experience.
As the range-topping model within the Audi A4 range, the RS4 is equipped with endless amounts of advanced tech and gadgets. Highlights include a virtual cockpit, various driver assistance systems and smartphone connectivity. Its 505-litre boot is on par with many of its rivals too, so little practicality was sacrificed for this level of performance.
Search Audi RS4 Avant DealsVolvo V60
- Top Speed: Maximum of 112mph (limited)
- 0 to 62mph time: As little as 4.6 seconds
If the British Police use a car as part of its fleet, then it's a safe bet that it's going to be fast, and the V60 is exactly that. Much like many of its siblings, it is also widely regarded as one of the safest and most reliable cars out there, supporting its claims on this list.
There are several V60 variants to choose from, but those looking for the fastest will want the T8 variant, as this comes with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that produces just short of 450bhp. There's also the T6, which produces 345bhp, as well as a few lesser-powered options that don't quite justify a spot in the fast estate car argument.
Yes, it has a limited top speed of 112mph, so it technically loses out to its rival in that department, but that will only matter to those who plan on running their estate on a race track. In day-to-day life, you'll struggle to find an option that's quite as versatile as the V60. Furthermore, it sets somewhat of a benchmark in terms of practicality, and is very comfortable for all passengers.
Search Volvo V60 DealsVolkswagen Golf R Estate
- Top Speed: Maximum of 167mph (limited)
- 0 to 62mph time: As little as 4.6 seconds
If you're after hot hatch performance but need the extra boot space, the Volkswagen Golf R Estate could be your perfect middle ground. Based on the ever-popular Golf platform, the R variant turns up the heat with its performance-focused design, delivering power, grip, and everyday usability in equal measure.
Under the bonnet sits a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that kicks out around 320bhp, allowing for a 0 to 62mph time of just 4.6 seconds. All that power is sent through Volkswagen’s excellent 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, which makes the Golf R Estate feel planted and confident, whether you're carving up B-roads or cruising down the motorway.
As with most Golf models, build quality is rock solid, and the interior feels refined and tech-forward. Expect features like a fully digital cockpit, adaptive cruise control, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a raft of driver-assistance systems. It also offers around 611 litres of boot space with the rear seats up - so you’re not sacrificing practicality for performance. There's also Estate variants of the fabled Golf GTI too, if that appeals more than the R.
Search Volkswagen Golf R Deals
Find your next car with Evans Halshaw
When it comes to fast estate cars, there are plenty of options out there, each with its own unique features and benefits. If you're still considering which model may be right for you, or are ready to experience one yourself with a test drive, your nearest Evans Halshaw retailer is on hand to assist with your search and answer any queries you may have.
Alternatively, our blog section is home to further advice to ensure you're well prepared to begin your car buying journey.
