The shooting brake design lends it a little more identity than the sedan, which looks like a baby A6. Dare I say the wagon looks a little sportier?
Even with basic suspension, and as a wagon, it handles better than a wagon should be allowed to handle. The AWD contributes to this, as well. In emergency situations, the car is VERY predictable.
Plenty of oomph when needed, yet can cruise at high highway speeds at ~24mpg. Passing power -- and the feeling that AWD transfers all the power to the road well -- make freeways fun.