What is Boot Space in Car?

Imagine the boot space in the car as its special storage area. It is where you can put all sorts of things like your bags, groceries, sports gear, or even your luggage for a trip. It's usually in the back of the car. What's important is that this space is separate from where you (the driver) and the passengers sit, so your things stay safe and don't get in the way. Read in to learn more about boot space in cars in detail.

Boot Space Meaning

Boot space, also referred to as trunk space, is the interior storage area at the rear of a vehicle, typically accessed through a hinged or liftgate door. It is essential to a car's design and functionality, providing storage for luggage, groceries, cargo, or any necessary transport items. The size of the boot space can vary significantly between different car models, and it is measured in litres or cubic feet to indicate its capacity. Boot space is essential for many car buyers, especially those who frequently travel, shop, or carry various items in their vehicles.

Why is Boot Space Important?

Boot space plays a crucial role in our daily lives, often more than we realize. Here are some reasons why it's vital:

• Travel and Vacations: When heading out for a weekend getaway or a long-awaited vacation, you need ample space to accommodate luggage, camping gear, or sports equipment.

• Grocery Shopping: A spacious boot makes grocery shopping a breeze. You can load up on groceries without worrying about cramming them into the backseat.

• Family Needs: For families, the boot space is where you stow strollers, school bags, and other essentials, ensuring a comfortable and clutter-free interior.

• Hobbies and Sports: Whether you're into cycling, golfing, or any other outdoor activity, a generous boot can handle your gear without hassle.

• Moving and Transport: Occasionally, you might need to move items, big or small. A roomy trunk can save you from the hassle and cost of renting a larger vehicle.

Car Boot Space Measurement Methods

When you're in the market for a new car or preparing for a road trip, understanding how car boot space is measured becomes crucial. There are three primary methods for measuring the volume of a car's boot: VDA, SAE, and Maximum Load Volume. Let's take a closer look at each:

• VDA (Vehicle Design Area): VDA is perhaps the most common method used in the automotive industry to measure boot space. It's short for "Vehicle Design Area." This method considers the sheer volume and the boot's shape. The VDA measurement provides a comprehensive view of how much cargo you can fit.

• SAE (Safe Approach and Entry): SAE is a newer method designed to provide a more realistic representation of usable boot space. It factors in practical considerations, such as the space taken up by the spare tire and the height of the boot opening. SAE aims to give you a clearer idea of how much you can utilize when packing your belongings.

• Maximum Load Volume: This measurement is the simplest of the three. It represents the maximum amount of space available for cargo, regardless of shape or other factors. It's a no-frills measurement that tells you the raw capacity.

Choosing the Right Method for Comparison

When comparing car boot spaces between different manufacturers, knowing which measurement method was used is essential. It ensures an apples-to-apples comparison. Depending on your needs and preferences, you might prioritize VDA for a holistic view, SAE for practicality, or Maximum Load Volume for raw space.

How to Measure Car Boot Space

Now, let's explore how you can measure the boot space of a car:

Option 1 – Calculate Boot Space with Dimensions

To accurately measure a car's boot space, you'll need to obtain its length, width, and height dimensions. Here's how:

• Length: Measure from the back of the rear seats to the edge of the trunk.

• Width: Measure the widest part of the trunk's interior.

• Height: Measure from the trunk's floor to the highest point of the trunk's interior.

Once you have these measurements, you can calculate the boot's volume by multiplying length x width x height. It provides you with a precise figure. If you don't have physical access to the car you're interested in, here's what you can do:

• Visit a Dealership or Rental Shop: Plan a visit to a dealership or rental agency and request the trunk measurements over the phone. They may also provide visual materials like photos or videos to give you a better sense of the space.

Bonus Tip: Some cars offer flexible seating configurations, such as split-folding rear seats, which can expand trunk space. If you require extra room, inquire about these features.

Option 2 – Estimate Boot Space by Loading Luggage

If you prefer a hands-on approach and can't measure the trunk directly, you can estimate boot space by simulating a real-life scenario:

• Gain Access to the Car: Borrow the same type of car from a friend, hire it for a day, or book a test drive at a dealership.

• Load Luggage: Fill the trunk with the luggage you typically use for trips.

• Measure Loaded Trunk: Measure the filled trunk's length, width, and height to estimate the usable space accurately.

Bonus Tip: Don't forget to use side compartments and hidden storage areas for smaller items, optimizing your cargo capacity.

Option 3 – Use a Cargo Space Calculator

To simplify the process of assessing boot space, you can utilize a specialized tool like our boot space calculator. It is designed to help you determine the ideal cargo space you need, whether planning a trip or considering a long-term family car purchase. Additionally, it can estimate cargo space for various car makes and models, streamlining your decision-making process.

Tips and Tricks For Maximizing Boot Space

Now that you know how to measure boot space, let's explore some tips and tricks for making the most of it:

• Invest in Storage Accessories: Consider purchasing organizers, cargo nets, or storage bins to keep your belongings tidy and prevent them from shifting during travel.

• Fold Down Rear Seats: If your car has split-folding rear seats, utilize this feature to expand your trunk space when needed. Just be sure to secure items properly to prevent them from sliding onto the rear seats.

• Use Soft Luggage: Soft-sided luggage is often more flexible and easily fits into irregularly shaped trunks. It can conform to the available space more efficiently than hard-shell luggage.

• Pack Strategically: Let heavier items go at the bottom and towards the back to maintain stability when loading your trunk. Lighter and fragile items should be placed on top.

• Utilize the Underfloor Space: Some cars have storage compartments beneath the trunk floor. Use this additional space for items you don't need immediate access to.

• Consider Roof Racks: If you regularly transport bulky items like bicycles or kayaks, consider installing roof racks or a roof cargo box to free up trunk space.

• Plan Ahead: Plan your packing carefully before embarking on a trip. Eliminate unnecessary items and prioritize what you truly need. A little pre-planning can go a long way in maximizing your available space.

Best SUVs in India with Spacious Boot Space

If you value having plenty of room in your car's trunk, we've compiled a list of top SUVs in India that offer generous boot space. Let's look closer:

MG Hector

The MG Hector boasts an impressive boot space of 587 litres. It means you'll have ample space for your luggage, groceries, and more. MG recently launched the next-generation model of the Hector in January, featuring a fresh front design, revamped cabin, and a range of new features. The 2023 MG Hector also introduces Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) with lane keep assist, forward collision warning with emergency braking, traffic jam assist, adaptive cruise control and high-beam assist.

Hyundai Creta

The Hyundai Creta offers a substantial boot space of 433 litres. This popular SUV ranked among India's top 10 cars sold in February. Hyundai sold 10,421 units of the Creta during that month, showing strong demand. The Creta comes with a choice of powertrains and recently introduced the Creta N Line Night Edition, a sportier version tailored for the Brazilian market.

Kia Seltos

Kia Seltos is another SUV with ample boot space, with 433 litres to accommodate your belongings. It has three powertrain options: a 1.5L petrol motor, a 1.4L turbo-petrol unit, and a 1.5L diesel engine. The Seltos offers a starting price of ₹10.19 lakh (ex-showroom), and the 2023 model introduced some updates with prices starting at ₹10.89 lakh (ex-showroom).

Tata Harrier

The Tata Harrier is known for its spacious interior and offers a boot space of 425 litres. It's a well-constructed SUV with a smooth automatic transmission. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0L diesel engine capable of delivering 170 PS of maximum power and 350 Nm of torque.

Renault Kiger

It is a compact SUV with a boot space of 405 litres. It's a budget-friendly option, with a starting price of ₹5.84 lakh. The Kiger has two engine options: a 1.0L petrol engine producing 72 PS and 96 Nm of torque and a 1.0L turbocharged petrol unit delivering 100 PS and 160 Nm of torque. It has features like auto climate control, a push-button engine start-stop system, an 8-inch infotainment screen, and more.

Conclusion

Boot space is critical when purchasing a new car or planning your next adventure. If you can measure boot space in a car accurately and effectively, you can ensure that your vehicle meets your specific needs, whether you're a frequent traveller, a busy parent, or someone with active hobbies. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to boot space. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and the type of cargo you regularly transport.

Boot space is not the only important thing to look for when buying a new car. You must also abide by the law by purchasing the relevant car insurance policy for your new vehicle. Buying third-party insurance is mandatory for all motor vehicles in India, and ACKO will help you in fulfilling all your motor insurance needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the frequently asked questions on What is Boot Space in Car in 2024 Explained?

Why is it called boot space? 

The term "boot space" originated from early automobiles, with separate storage compartments resembling boots (footwear) attached to the rear. Over time, this storage area became an integral part of cars, retaining the name.

Which car has better boot space? 

The car with superior boot space depends on your needs and budget. Research and compare models to find one that suits your specific requirements.

How important is boot space? 

Boot space is crucial for travellers, shoppers, families, and hobbyists, enabling convenient storage of luggage, groceries, and equipment.

Which 7-seater car has more boot space? 

Boot space in 7-seater cars varies. Vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Ford Explorer, Volkswagen Atlas, and Chevrolet Traverse offer competitive boot space, depending on seat configuration and trim level. Consult manufacturer specs and inspect the car for precise measurements.