Measured: Cargo Room for SUVs and Minivans
We measure the space behind the raised third-row seat and the overall cargo room for each model
Many consumers consider a vehicle’s cargo room a key shopping consideration, whether it’s for holding groceries, carting the kids to weekend activities, or taking a long road trip. But manufacturers’ claims of abundant space don’t always reflect real-world utility.
Consumer Reports measures and evaluates cargo space differently than automakers. For SUVs, minivans, and wagons, we look at the largest "box" that can fit into the cargo bay as far as possible without preventing the hatch from closing. Cargo capacity is the volume enclosed by that box.
Photo: John Powers/Consumer Reports Photo: John Powers/Consumer Reports
Total Cargo Capacity
We measure cargo room for SUVs, minivans, and wagons with an expandable rectangular pipe-frame “box.” We stretch it to fit through the rear opening, maximizing the box’s volume with the rear seats folded yet allowing the rear gate to be closed. We then score cargo capacity by measuring the volume enclosed by that box.
Below, we have broken out our tested minivans and three-row SUVs into four categories. We identify which ratings group they are in (Midsized SUV, Large SUV, and Minivan) and rank them from most to least volume within the category. In our measurements, we round up to the next cubic foot for any score that is 0.5 or greater. (See our SUV and minivan/3-row SUV buying guides.)
Cubic Feet
Cubic Feet
Cubic Feet
Cubic Feet
Learn how Consumer Reports tests vehicles at our 327-acre auto test track in Connecticut.
Photo: John Powers/Consumer Reports Photo: John Powers/Consumer Reports
Room Behind the Third Row
We measure third-row luggage capacity by seeing how many suitcases and duffel bags can fit behind the raised third-row seat. Vehicles are ranked from most to least luggage capacity within the category.
In cases where multiple vehicles can hold the same amount of luggage, we rank them in order of their third-row-seat comfort score, which is determined by a jury of testers. For example, both the Lexus TX and Chevrolet Traverse can hold three suitcases, but you’ll be more comfortable riding in the TX’s third row than the Traverse’s.
