When you consider the idea of a used luxury vehicle, a luxury wagon probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But if you’re in the mood for something a little different, a luxury wagon like the 2014 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon might fit the bill. Blending the functionality and flexibility of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a sedan, this luxury wagon might be the perfect vehicle for your family or everyday commute.

One of the best luxury wagons under $30,000

Kelley Blue Book recently published its list of the eight best luxury wagons under $30,000. And the 2014 Cadillac CTS made the list. 

With the athleticism of a CTS and the functionality of a wagon, the 2014 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon offers an edgy style, lots of space, and athletic driving dynamics. Many are all-wheel-drive, which makes them even more of a find. And many cost well under $30,000.

Fans of traditional Cadillacs might not appreciate this luxury wagon’s sharp styling. It seats up to five in a spacious, elegant cabin, making it ideal for the everyday commute. There’s plenty of interior room for the family and cargo space for everyone’s stuff. 

Edmunds notes the CTS Sport Wagon is slightly larger than most luxury wagons in its class. The automotive website explains the CTS is more or less a midsize car with an upscale cabin. But it’s a fun drive with good acceleration and handling no matter which V6 engine you choose.

The 2014 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon

The exterior boasts bold and edgy styling. From its distinct shield-like grill to its vertical lighting elements, the 2014 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon offers an updated, contemporary look. 

Though the 2014 Cadillac CTS wagon is rear-wheel-drive standard with a six-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive is available across all models. The base engine is a 3.0-liter V6 that gets 270 hp and 223 lb-ft of torque. Regardless of whether your wagon is AWD or rear-wheel-drive, EPA estimates for fuel efficiency are 21 mpg combined, with 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

The other engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that puts out 318 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. According to the EPA, the fuel economy estimates for this one are the same as the 3.0-liter V6. 

The interior is visually pleasing, with a nice balance of soft-touch materials and tasteful wood accents. A navigation system can be mostly concealed when not in use. The touchscreen display conveniently accommodates the infotainment system and navigation. 

The wagon offers generous cargo space with 25 cubic feet in the back and 58 cubic feet with the back seats down.

The good and the bad

The Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon offers unexpected athletic driving dynamics. According to Edmunds, the steering is accurate and weighted well. With the way it takes corners, it doesn’t handle like a wagon. It’s a fun drive even for a family vehicle. 

However, the FE3 suspension setup makes the ride overly stiff. Also, keep in mind that both engines get the same fuel economy. So if you can afford a model with the stronger 3.6-liter V6, you should get it. 

Though the cabin is one of the best parts of the 2014 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon, it’s not without flaws. The driver’s seat is low, so driving can be awkward because of the slightly offset pedals and the center stack creeping into the driver’s space. The front seats have flat, stiff cushions that might not be the most comfortable on road trips. 

When it comes to cabin space, the CTS wagon is hard to beat. But the low roof can make getting into the back tricky. Also, outward visibility in the back isn’t the best, so Edmunds recommends finding a model with a rearview camera.

With style other luxury wagons can’t match, the 2014 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon offers a roomy, upscale cabin, lots of cargo space, and a fun drive if the stiff suspension isn’t a problem. It’s a lot of vehicle for less than $30,000.