What is a Shooting Brake?

[AnnieMarie]

Shooting brake is a three-door station wagon or an extended hatchback. Models of shooting brakes include: Ferrari FF, Ferrari GTC4, Mercedes-Benz CLS, Bentley Continental Flying Star, Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake, etc. Taking the 2012 Ferrari FF as an example, it is a hardtop sports car with body dimensions of: length 4907mm, width 1953mm, height 1379mm, and a wheelbase of 2990mm. The 2012 Ferrari FF is equipped with a 6.3L naturally aspirated engine, producing a maximum horsepower of 660PS, a maximum power of 485kW, and a maximum torque of 683Nm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

[Ron]

The concept of a shooting brake is quite interesting. It originated from the British hunting tradition, initially designed as a specialized vehicle for nobles to go hunting, featuring three doors and an exceptionally large tailgate for easy loading of shotguns and game. Nowadays, it has evolved into a variant based on luxury sedans or sports cars, such as the Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake, which combines the sleek lines of a coupe with the practical spaciousness of a station wagon. This design allows for flexible storage of luggage and pets, making it particularly suitable for long trips or family outings. The design philosophy of such cars is to perfectly blend elegance with functionality, and even when parked in the garage, they resemble works of art. Although they tend to be on the pricier side, they are becoming increasingly popular among young car owners in Europe and China, representing a choice that pursues a high quality of life.

[DiKayden]

As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I find shooting brakes to be quite outstanding in terms of daily practicality. The entire tailgate can be opened, making loading items incredibly convenient—unlike regular sedans which feel cramped. On weekends when I take my wife and kids out, fitting large suitcases is no problem at all. Plus, the lightweight body offers excellent handling, avoiding the bulkiness and high fuel consumption typical of SUVs. I once drove a friend's Audi A4 Avant and found it agile around corners, stable on highways, with a spacious and comfortable interior. Even carrying wet items in the rain isn't a concern for messing up the cabin. The downside is the limited availability of brands in the domestic market, mostly imported models, which come with a higher price tag and maintenance costs. But overall, this type of car strikes a great balance between work and leisure needs, making it worth the price.

[VanAllison]

The history of shooting brakes is truly fascinating, originating from 19th-century British aristocratic carriages to Ford's first dedicated hunting gear model in the early 20th century. Later in the 1960s, Jaguar and Rolls-Royce elevated it to a fashion icon, transforming it from mere hunting equipment to a status symbol. Today, models like the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo continue this legacy, blending modern sportiness with retro elements, making them hot topics among car enthusiasts. I believe this evolution showcases the automotive industry's progress from utility to artistry, with each shooting brake carrying its own story that captivates vintage car aficionados for deeper exploration.