STATION wagons are often either stylish or practical. Seldom both.

Not so the Volkswagen Passat Variant. It manages to combine both practicality and space in a stylish package. Pop open the electrically-operated tailgate and you will gawk at the large and well-shaped loading bay.

There's up to 1,731 litres of cargo space there, more if you split/fold the rear seats down. Indeed, the stowage is comparable to what some mid-sized MPVs offer.

In addition, there are extra storage spaces underneath the boot floor for smaller items. You can also opt for the luggage management package to divide the large load space into smaller compartments. Clever.

The Passat Variant is available with two engine choices in Singapore. The entry-level model is a 200bhp 2-litre direct-injection turbo, while the other is a creamy 3.2-litre direct-injection V6.

The latter, which comes with all-wheel-drive and VW's famed DSG gearbox, is also found in the VW Golf R32 and makes 250bhp. It propels the Passat Variant to 100kmh from rest in a decent 7.2 seconds and has ample torque in the mid-range too.

As ever, the dual-clutch DSG gearbox is quick and remains mightily impressive for what it is: a robotised manual.

On the handling front, the car offers safe and secure road holding manners. The steering is a little short on feedback, but the big estate can take corners with little drama. All-wheel- drive also guarantees maximum traction when powering out of bends.

Ride at all speeds is pliant, something occupants other than the driver will undoubtedly appreciate.

The car's interior is elegantly designed. And the choice of materials enhances perceived luxury.

The Highline model available here offers superb leather seats with Alcantara inserts and packs a list of features that will rival top-end saloons. Especially noteworthy are the integrated child booster seats on the rear bench - they save you the hassle of lugging off-the-shelf car seats around.

All said, the Passat Variant would not be out of place next to luxury estates like the Audi A4 Avant or the BMW 3-series Touring. In fact, the Passat Variant has more space to offer.

Price: $161,300 with COE
Engine: 3,168cc 24-valve V6
Transmission: Six-speed DSG
Power: 250bhp at 6,250rpm
Torque: 330Nm at 2,750rpm
0-100kmh: 243kmh
Fuel consumption: 10.1 litres/100km (city-highway)
Agent: Volkswagen Centre Singapore