The Boxing Day week is almost upon us, which means that you may need a vehicle that would be up to the task of delivering goods from point A to point B.
What makes a car good for such a task? There are two categories to consider. One is the amount of available space – aka cargo capacity – and two is efficiency, because no one wants to waste fuel while racing from one store to another.
Okay, so no one really needs a dedicated shopping vehicle (though you’re welcome to buy one anyway)… However, if you are in search of a car that boasts plenty of cargo space without sacrificing too much fuel, then take a look at these:
10. Mitsubishi Outlander SE
City/Highway Fuel Economy (L/100km): 10.1 / 7.1
Cargo Space (cubic feet): 10.3
The new Mitsubishi Outlander can transport more than five passengers, while providing a long list of contemporary tech and safety features. We’re also fond of the vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system that comes with different modes for various off-road conditions – which you might need in case you get lost on your way to the mall. The SE’s 2.4-litre four cylinder also provides plenty of juice, producing 166 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque.
9. BMW X1 xDrive28i
City/Highway Fuel Economy (L/100km): 12.3 / 8.3
Cargo Space (cubic feet): 14.8
The BMW X1 xDrive28i is the German automaker’s smallest crossover in the X lineup, sitting right below the X3 and X5. It boasts elegance and style, while also offering decent on-road performance – but it’s definitely not for rugged terrains. The highlight of this model is the fuel-efficient 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that can produce 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.
8. BMW X3 xDrive28i
City/Highway Fuel Economy (L/100km): 9.8 / 7.1
Cargo Space (cubic feet): 19.4
Though the 2015 BMW X3 xDrive28i is certainly pricy, it’s not without its perks. Stylish, roomy and efficient, this SUV is one of the best vehicles of its kind. We particularly adore the powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, high-quality cabin and plenty of passenger and cargo space.
7. Mazda CX-5
City/Highway Fuel Economy (L/100km): 9 / 6.8
Cargo Space (cubic feet): 34.1
The 2015 Mazda CX-5 is the third iteration of the vehicle, which combines fuel efficiency and performance by utilising the automaker’s Skyactive technologies. The best part about this five-passenger SUV is the fact that it’s unabashedly fun to drive and good-looking to boot.
6. Subaru Forester Auto 2.5i
City/Highway Fuel Economy (L/100km): 9.6 / 7.5
Cargo Space (cubic feet): 34.4
The new Subaru Forester serves up solid fuel economy, high-tech features and several structural and chassis enhancements, which combine for one heck of a vehicle. It also happens to be reliable and safe, while boasting excellent resale value.
5. Honda CR-V EX
City/Highway Fuel Economy (L/100km): 9 / 6.4
Cargo Space (cubic feet): 37.2
By implementing the Accord’s direct-injection four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT), Honda has managed to make the new CR-V one of the best SUVs around. Add to that revamped exterior design and features like rear climate vents, a front console armrest and a seven-inch touchscreen connected to the LaneWatch blind spot monitoring system and you have one winning combo.
4. Honda Odyssey EX-L
City/Highway Fuel Economy (L/100km): 12.3 / 8.5
Cargo Space (cubic feet): 38.4
The Honda Odyssey is a practical, comfortable, fuel-efficient and feature-rich eight-passenger minivan that will easily appease a larger family. What’s especially impressive about the vehicle is the fact that it actually matches full-size SUVs in terms of size. And it has sliding doors too.
3. Toyota RAV4 XLE
City/Highway Fuel Economy (L/100km): 10 / 7.6
Cargo Space (cubic feet): 38.5
The Toyota RAV4 may not stand out in any particular area, but its combination of passenger space, features and everyday functionality make it worth a look, if you’re in search of a small crossover. We also appreciate the 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, which produces 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque – not bad for a vehicle in this price range.
2. Toyota Sienna XLE
City/Highway Fuel Economy (L/100km): 14.4 / 10.2
Cargo Space (cubic feet): 39.1
The Toyota Sienna is spacious, comfortable and highly configurable – qualities that make it an excellent choice for families. With the available eight-passenger seating, comfortable second-row seating, high-quality cabin and user-friendly controls, the Sienna is one minivan you don’t want to ignore.
1. Nissan Rogue SV
City/Highway Fuel Economy (L/100km): 9.2 / 7.2
Cargo Space (cubic feet): 39.3
The new Nissan Rogue boasts a high-quality cabin and optional three-row seating, while an overall versatile choice for people in search of a comfortable yet practical small SUV. We also appreciate its smooth highway ride, user-friendly tech features, premium feel of the cabin and tons of interior storage compartments.
