Recommendations for loading
There are a number of things that are important to bear in mind when loading the car.
Payload depends on the car's kerb weight. The total of the weight of the passengers and all accessories reduces the car's payload by a corresponding weight.
Warning
The car’s driving properties change depending on the weight and positioning of the load.
Loading the cargo area
Good things to remember when loading:
- Position the load firmly against the rear seat's backrest.
- Heavy objects should be placed as low as possible. Avoid placing heavy loads on lowered backrests.
- Cover sharp edges with something soft to avoid damaging the upholstery.
- Secure all loads to the load retaining eyelets with straps or web lashings.
Warning
A loose object weighing 20 kg (44 pounds) can, in a frontal collision at a speed of 50 km/h (30 mph) carry the impact of an item weighing 1000 kg (2200 pounds).
Warning
Leave 10 cm (4 inches) space between the load and the side windows if the car is loaded to above the top edge of the door windows. Otherwise, the intended protection of the inflatable curtain, which is concealed in the headlining, may be compromised.
Warning
Always secure the load. During heavy braking the load may otherwise shift, causing personal injury to the car's occupants.
Cover sharp edges and sharp corners with something soft.
Use the parking brake when loading/unloading long objects.
Extending the cargo area
The rear seat backrests can be folded down to extend the cargo area and simplify loading. Note that no objects should impede the function for the Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS) in the front seats if any of the rear seat backrests are folded down.
A through-load hatch in the rear seat can be folded down when transporting long and narrow loads.