Most cars in our Category C and upwards will have a decent-sized boot. Certainly enough to fit luggage, maybe even a folded pushchair. But once you reach the estate models and the large family cars and MPVs, with seats folded down you’re looking at more than 600 litres of bootspace.
1. How to Know What Car to Book?
First, assess what you will have with you. How many suitcases, small, medium or large? Will you have a pram with you, does it fold neatly? Will you have to take the parcel shelf out, or push the seats down? Do you have more passengers than bags?
You can measure roughly from photographs, how many bags you’ll get in each model. But always err on the safe side by choosing a bigger car than necessary, especially if you’re going on a longer trip and are likely to buy things on the road.
2. Category B Cars (Fiesta etc.)
These are your average, ordinary boots with enough space for about 2-3 medium size cases. Hatchbacks aren’t known for having enormous amounts of room but with the back seats folding down, you would find these cars suitable for 2-3 passengers or a couple with one child/baby.
Cars in this category on average have a capacity of 280-290 litres.
3. Category C Cars (Focus etc.)
You’ll get a bigger boot on this class of cars due to the cars being larger models. But still only recommended for 3 passengers. The Ssangyong Tivoli has a good shape for taller items whereas the SEAT Leon has a longer, deeper boot more akin to a sedan.
Cars in this category on average have a capacity of 360-400 litres.
4. Category D Cars (Optima, Passat, Mondeo etc.)
Naturally, cars in the D category are quite long and therefore have a fair bit of room in the boot. The back seats are roomy too if you need to store things there also. Usually, these cars are hired for business but families could definitely benefit from the boot size for prams and chairs. We recommend about 4 large suitcases could fit comfortably in boots of this range.
Cars in this category on average have a capacity of 400-550 litres.
5. Category E Cars (V60, Xc60, E Class etc.)
Even with the back row of seats up, you’d be hard pushed to fill the boot of these vehicles. Our E range is for exclusive, executive models and you do pay a higher price for a nicer car. As well as the luxury styling, precision handling and comfortable interior you’ll be getting heaps of boot space and up to 1000 litres with the seats folded down. Perfect for those trips to IKEA(!)
Cars in this category on average have a capacity of 440-650 litres.
6. Category M Cars (Touran, Galaxy etc.)
The largest category we have before you start entering the van hire is the MPVs. Ranging from huge family cars to 7 and 9-seater vehicles with collapsible and removable benches, we recommend these models for large 4+ families. These are not van replacements though – despite the large boot size, and if you are wanting a vehicle for house moving or light commercial purposes then we recommend you look at our van range.
The boot space can comfortably fit 6 or more large suitcases, pushchairs, wheelchairs and motability scooters, an array of work equipment, pet cages, and plenty more.
Cars in this category on average have a capacity of 700-1300 litres.
Please bear in mind that although we can never guarantee a specific make or model, when reserving a car in a certain category you are guaranteeing a similar size vehicle. Always ask in branch for an upgrade if you feel the size of your car is not big enough.