allroad or A6 avant versus Mercedes c320 or E320 wagon

Audi Allroad, A6 Avant Mercedes C320 wagon or E320 wagon


Within the next few months (November) I will be looking for a
replacement for my 2001 Mercedes C320 Sport Wagon. Since it has been a
real lemon, I am loath to go back into the same car.

I would like input good and bad on the Wagons mentioned above (and any
others that I may have overlooked.)

What I like:

Versatility to load large stuff (typical home depot run...smaller
furniture, boxes, etc) in the back of my car, then convert it into a
regular car again.

Speed and acceleration (don't need a hot rod, but 190 HP is too low).
Zero to 60 under 8 seconds, and prefer closer to 6 seconds.

Bells and whistles (CD changer, dual climate zones, heated seats, auto
wipers, integrated cell phone, power seat memory, leather, nice trim -
prefer wood, high powered lights, trip computer, high end stereo, etc...)

Auto with shift capability is nice.

Must handle in a reasonably sporty manner... no boats or sloppy steering.

Would really like all wheel drive (miss my Volvo XC that was pretty good
in snow).

storage compartments in rear area.

Traction control, and lateral sway / stability control.

Rear leg room is somewhat important as my kids get older, and to take
care of my friends when we go into town.

Safety record, and related stuff like side bags is important.

Athird row seat would be nice..but not essential

Would like to keep it under $55,000... but hey wouldn't we all. Current
car cost $47,000.

Service that offers loaners and kisses ass.

Good warranty program that includes everything.

Larger interior than the C320 wagon would be nice.




I dislike:

Things breaking

Sloppy driving cars

Poor acceleration

poorly laid out dash

unintuitive buttons and controls.

cheap trim

Inability to floor it to pass quickly at highway speed.



I realize that no car can meet all of these things...but what comes
close...?

I do want a nicer car... status is not really important... but I do want
something that is considered a "nice car"... Ford Tauruses need not
apply. in other word image is nice, but not all consuming.


I do tend toward european cars instead of american and japanes... but
won't rule it out.

i had considered a 5 series BMW, but the wagon is not being produced in
that size right now.
thanks in advance,

Rich