My vote goes to esteem.

a few weeks back, i was also looking for a wagon type car for my wife's mom-moblile. fortunately, i got hold of a very fresh spacewagon which was well within the price of the esteem & elantra.

if you're still open for other options, try looking for a 98 & up opel vectra wagon. i saw one at manila bulletin last sunday going for P215k only.