What is the boot space of boot space?
Boot space is the luggage capacity of a car’s boot, and there is no single universal figure for it. The amount of space varies from model to model and depends on how space is measured.
In practice, boot space is usually stated in litres (L) or cubic feet (cu ft). The figure changes with the car’s class, whether the rear seats are up or folded, and whether there is underfloor storage or a spare wheel. When comparing cars, it’s important to know the measurement method and the seating configuration used to obtain the figure.
Understanding what counts as boot space
The term “boot space” refers to the cargo volume available in the trunk area of a vehicle. Different cars publish different numbers, and some models publish both with the rear seats up and with the rear seats folded down. To compare apples-to-apples, you should use the same seating configuration and be aware of floor height and usable shapes inside the boot.
How boot space is measured
The following ranges reflect typical boot space by vehicle class and provide a rough guide to what buyers can expect in new cars today.
- Subcompact hatchbacks: roughly 200–300 L (7–11 cu ft)
- Compact hatchbacks and sedans: roughly 300–500 L (11–18 cu ft)
- Mid-size sedans and wagons: roughly 450–700 L (16–25 cu ft)
- SUVs and crossovers: roughly 500–1,000 L (18–35 cu ft)
- Large vans and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs): roughly 900–2,000 L (32–70 cu ft)
These ranges are meant as general guidelines. Actual models can vary widely, especially when you consider floor height, wheel arches, and whether the seats are folded to maximize space.
What else affects usable boot space
Several design choices influence how much usable space you actually get, beyond the published cargo volume.
- Seat configuration: rear seats that fold in a 60/40 or 40/20/40 split can dramatically increase usable space when needed.
- Floor height and shape: a high, stepped, or recessed floor reduces vertical clearance; a flat, low floor maximizes usable space for tall items.
- Wheel arches and cargo bay geometry: pronounced arches and irregular shapes cut into available space.
- Underfloor storage and spare wheel: extra compartments can steal vertical space but help organize items; some cars replace the spare with a repair kit, freeing space.
- Accessibility and cargo features: fixed shelves, rails, nets, and tie-down points affect how you can fit items, even if the raw volume is the same.
When shopping, note both the official cargo volume and the practical space with seats up and down, plus the floor height, to get a true sense of how much you can carry.
How to compare boot space across models
To compare properly, read the official specs published by manufacturers, and check the context in which the volume is measured (seats up vs. seats folded, floor height, etc.). If you regularly carry long or tall items, look for a low floor and a wide, unobstructed opening. For large flat loads, also verify the width between the wheel arches and any internal obstructions.
Summary
Boot space is not a single universal value but a vehicle-specific measure that depends on class, configuration, and how space is measured. Use liters or cubic feet as units, compare like-for-like (seats up vs. folded), and pay attention to floor height and boot geometry to understand how much you can actually carry. In practice, the best approach is to check official specs for the exact model and, if possible, test the space with your typical cargo before buying.
Is 400 litre boot space good?
200–300 litres: Enough for a few shopping bags or a small suitcase. 400–500 litres: Ideal for families — prams, weekly shops, or a couple of suitcases. 600 litres or more: You've got serious storage. Great for dogs, holidays, or just having loads of room to play with.
How is boot space calculated?
How Is Boot Space Measured? Manufacturers provide measurements of boot volume (in litres) to help customers compare models more easily. In the UK, manufacturers usually measure boot space by volume using the VDA method. They fill the boot with small 1-litre blocks and count how many fit inside.
How much boot space is enough?
For a family car, a boot space of 400–500 liters is ideal. This capacity can comfortably accommodate strollers, groceries, luggage, & other daily essentials, making it perfect for families of all sizes.
What is the boot space?
Boot space is the storage area at the rear of a vehicle, also known as the trunk in American English. It is used to store luggage, groceries, and other cargo, allowing passengers to have more comfortable and clutter-free space in the main cabin.
- British English vs. American English: "Boot" is the term used in British English, while "trunk" is used in American English.
- Purpose: It provides a dedicated space for carrying items, from daily errands to long road trips.
- Measurement: Boot space is measured by its volume, often in liters, and can be influenced by factors like the angle of the tailgate, floor shape, and whether the rear seats can be folded down.
- Origin: The term "boot" is thought to have originated from the horse-drawn carriages where a "boot locker" was used to store the driver's boots, a term that was then applied to early automobiles.
