How much weight can a sedan's trunk generally hold?
3 Answers
Sedans are generally designed with a trunk load capacity not exceeding 250-300kg. It is not advisable to carry excessively heavy items in a sedan, as it can adversely affect the chassis and suspension system, leading to fatigue and aging of springs and shock absorbers, and potentially causing deformation of the chassis and frame. Additional Information: 1. The brand of the car and the number of passengers can influence the trunk's weight capacity. Luggage weight = Gross vehicle weight - Curb weight - Driver and passenger weight. For most 1.5L sedans, with four passengers, an additional 100kg of luggage can be accommodated. 2. The manufacturer provides specifications regarding the trunk's load capacity. For example: Front axle 875KG, rear axle 745KG. Subtracting the curb load, the front axle can carry 747KG and the rear axle 453KG. By subtracting these values, the respective load capacities for each axle can be calculated.
I've driven quite a few sedans and found that trunk load capacity typically ranges between 150 to 500 kilograms, which entirely depends on the vehicle model and manufacturer's design. For example, compact family cars like the Honda Fit have a safe limit of around 200 kg, while large sedans such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class can easily handle over 400 kg. But don't just focus on weight—weight distribution is equally crucial. If items are piled on one side, it may cause chassis suspension deformation or even accelerate tire wear. I recommend referring to the owner's manual for specifications to avoid increased fuel consumption or reduced braking performance due to overloading. When loading luggage, ensure even distribution and secure large items at the rear. For frequent heavy hauling, consider installing support panels or regularly inspecting the suspension system.
As an average car owner, I often use my vehicle for moving or transporting miscellaneous items. The weight capacity of the trunk is not fixed; mainstream sedans can generally handle 150 to 350 kilograms of cargo. For example, mid-size cars like the Toyota Corolla have a specified safe limit of around 250 kilograms in the manual. Carrying some suitcases or shopping items is fine, but if you fill it with boxes, be cautious—overloading can cause the suspension to creak and compromise driving safety. I’ve also noticed that an overloaded trunk reduces stability when turning, especially in rainy conditions where skidding becomes more likely. I recommend estimating the weight before loading: remember the approximate weight of each item (e.g., a suitcase is about 20 kilograms) and ensure the total doesn’t exceed the limit. Additionally, keeping the trunk clean and minimizing clutter can reduce unnecessary strain.
