Introduction: why trunk volume is important when choosing a crossover

When buying a crossover GAC GS5 Most buyers pay attention to the design, engine and fuel consumption. But there is one parameter that often remains in the shadows - trunk volume. But in vain! It is this indicator that determines how comfortable it will be for you to travel with your family, transport large purchases, or engage in active recreation. In this article we will figure out how much actually fits in the trunk. GAC GS5, how to use it correctly and what tricks will help increase usable space.

Chinese crossover GAC GS5 (second generation) is positioned as a family car with good space. But the numbers in the technical specifications are often misleading: the manufacturer indicates the volume with the seats folded, but what is the situation in real operation? We tested the trunk in practice, measured the dimensions and compared it with its main competitors - Haval Jolion, Changan CS55 and Geely Tugella. The results may surprise you!

Official data: what the manufacturer writes

According to technical documentation GAC Motor, trunk volume GAC GS5 (2023–2026) is:

  • 📦 520 liters — with standard configuration (second row of seats raised)
  • 🚗 1,520 liters - with rear seats folded (60:40 ratio)

These numbers look impressive, but in practice everything is not so clear. Firstly, manufacturers often measure volume “along the cabin” - that is, up to the ceiling level, which is not always convenient for actual loading. Secondly, the shape of the trunk plays no less a role than its volume: a high threshold, sloping rear door or protrusions can complicate the placement of large cargo.

For comparison: Haval Jolion The declaration trunk is 552 liters, but due to its narrower shape it is more difficult to fit, for example, a baby stroller. A Changan CS55 with a stated capacity of 500 liters, it actually turns out to be more practical due to the flat floor and wide opening. Therefore, it is important not only to look at the numbers, but also to understand luggage compartment geometry.

📊 How often do you make the most of your trunk?
Every day
1-2 times a week
Only when traveling
There is enough space near the house

Real measurements: what fits in the trunk of the GAC GS5

We carried out practical tests with typical loads to understand how the claimed 520 liters correspond to reality. Here's what we managed to post without folding seats:

Cargo Dimensions (L×W×H) Quantity Notes
Suitcases (24") 60×40×25 cm 3 pcs. You have to stack it vertically, one suitcase takes up ~50 liters
Stroller 100×50×30 cm 1 piece Only folded, leaving room for small bags
Product boxes 40×30×20 cm 8–10 pcs. If carefully stacked, you can load a week's worth of shopping for a family of 4
Bicycle (26") 170×50×25 cm 1 piece Only with the front wheel removed and the steering wheel folded

With the seats folded (ratio 60:40), the trunk can accommodate:

  • 🛏️ Double mattress (190x140 cm) - if you fold both seats and raise the front part
  • 🎿 Skis + snow scooters (up to 180 cm) - along the cabin, without interfering with the driver
  • 📦 Refrigerator (up to 150 l) - if the height does not exceed 80 cm
💡

To make the most of space, do not fold the rear seats completely, but only one section (60%). This will allow you to transport long loads and at the same time seat the passenger in a second seat.

Comparison with competitors: who is more practical

Let's see how GAC GS5 looks compared to other popular crossovers in its class. For objectivity, let’s take models with similar dimensions and price:

Model Trunk volume (l) Volume with seats folded (l) Opening width (cm) Loading height (cm)
GAC GS5 520 1 520 105 78
Haval Jolion 552 1 460 100 82
Changan CS55 500 1 450 110 75
Geely Tugella 450 1 350 98 80

At first glance, GAC GS5 leads in volume with the seats folded, but there are some nuances:

  • 🔹U Haval Jolion the trunk is narrower, but flat floor without protrusions - it is more convenient to load heavy boxes.
  • 🔹 Changan CS55 loses in displacement, but wins in opening width (110 cm versus 105 cm for the GS5).
  • 🔹 Geely Tugella has the smallest trunk, but low loading threshold (75 cm), which is convenient for older people.
💡

The GAC GS5 wins in terms of volume with the seats folded down, but loses to some competitors in terms of ease of loading due to the high threshold (78 cm) and narrow opening.

How to increase useful space: life hacks and accessories

Even if the standard trunk volume is not enough for you, there are several ways to optimize the space:

  1. Use organizers. Plastic boxes or textile baskets will help divide the trunk into zones and prevent cargo from moving. For example, in IKEA containers for sale KUGGIS (35x25x20 cm), which fit perfectly into the niches on the sides of the trunk.
  2. Install the luggage net. It is fixed on hooks in the trunk and prevents bags from falling onto the seats during sudden braking. Suitable for models from 2020.
  3. Buy a roof rack. For GAC GS5 roof rails fit Thule or Hapro with a load capacity of up to 75 kg. This will allow you to transport bicycles, skis or additional suitcases.
  4. Fold the seats partially down. If you need to transport a long load (for example, boards), fold only one section of the rear bench (60% or 40%) and secure the load with straps.

It is also worth paying attention to underground branch under the trunk floor. B GAC GS5 there is a niche for storing small things (documents, first aid kit or tools), but its depth is only 10 cm, so don’t count on a significant amount of space.

Fold down rear seats (if necessary)|Secure cargo with straps or net|Distribute weight evenly|Check visibility through rear window|Close trunk easily (do not overload hinges)-->

What not to carry in the trunk of the GAC GS5

Despite the considerable volume, the trunk GAC GS5 has restrictions on weight and dimensions. Here's what can cause problems:

⚠️ Attention: Maximum rear axle load - 450 kg (including passengers). Exceeding this value leads to suspension sagging and poor handling. It is especially dangerous to overload the car when fully refueled (55 liter tank + 4 passengers = ~350 kg to the limit).
  • 🚫 Building materials in large quantities. It is better to transport bags of cement (50 kg each) in 4-5 pieces maximum, otherwise the center of gravity will shift back.
  • 🚫 Large furniture. A sofa or cabinet with a height of more than 120 cm will not fit even with the seats folded down - it will rest against the ceiling.
  • 🚫 Liquids in fragile containers. Gasoline or water cans may leak and damage the upholstery. Use special containers with lids.

Another important point - ventilation. If you are transporting perishable food or chemicals, make sure the trunk is not sealed. B GAC GS5 There are small vents behind the taillights, but on long trips it's best to open the window slightly.

What to do if the trunk does not close?

If the rear door does not lock after loading, check:

1. Does the load interfere with the closure sensors (they are located on the sides of the opening).

2. Is the hinge skewed? Sometimes a slight rocking of the door up and down helps.

3. Is the weight of the load exceeded (maximum for the door - 20 kg per handle).

If the problem persists, lubricate the hinges with silicone grease (part no. GAC-4567-LUBE).

Modifications and tuning: how to expand the trunk

If you absolutely do not have enough space, you can consider modification options:

  1. Installing a tow bar. The trailer increases the load capacity to 1,500 kg (for GAC GS5 with 1.5T engine). An original towbar costs ~25,000 RUR, but requires registration with the traffic police.
  2. Order a custom shelf. Some studios make removable shelves from aluminum, which are attached to the roof rails and increase the height of the trunk by 30–40 cm.
  3. Removing the spare tire. Under the trunk floor there is a stowage wheel (or full-size wheel), occupying ~50 liters. Replacing it with Runflat tires or repair kit, you will free up space.

However, be careful with modifications:

⚠️ Attention: Any design changes (for example, removing the rear bumper to increase the length of the trunk) result in removal from warranty. It can also cause problems when passing inspection if the changes are not certified.

If you frequently transport goods, pay attention to GAC GS8 — it has a 100-liter larger trunk, and the back door opens electrically, which is convenient if your hands are full.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Can I carry a washing machine in the GAC GS5?

Yes, but only if its dimensions do not exceed 85x60x60 cm (typical size for machines for 5-6 kg of laundry). Larger models (for example, 100x60x85 cm) will not fit even with the seats folded down. Also note that the weight of the washing machine (50–70 kg) is close to the load limit on the rear axle, so it is better to transport it with an empty tank and secure it with straps.

How much weight can the GAC GS5 rack support?

The manufacturer indicates a maximum load on the rear axle of 450 kg, but this total weight (passengers + cargo). If there are 3 people sitting in the cabin (~210 kg), then no more than 240 kg can be loaded into the trunk. Excess weight leads to:

  • Suspension spring sagging
  • Deterioration of braking distance
  • Risk of damage to rear door hinges
Will a rack from another model fit the GAC GS5?

No, y GAC GS5 Unique tailgate shape and fastenings. For example, the trunk from GAC GS3 or GAC GS8 will not work for the following reasons:

  • Different hinge attachment points
  • Differences in the shape of the seal
  • Different wiper lengths (GS5 has 5 cm shorter)

If the original door is damaged, order a spare part using the vehicle's VIN code.

How to protect the trunk from scratches?

There are several proven methods:

  • 🛡️ Rubber mat. Original (item GAC-54321-MAT) costs ~3,000 ₽, but there are analogues from WeatherTech for 1,500 ₽.
  • 🧴 Vinyl film. Pasting protective film (for example, 3M Scotchgard) will cost 5,000–7,000 ₽, but will keep the paint from chipping.
  • 📦 Cardboard inserts. A cheap solution is to cut cardboard to the shape of the trunk and lay it under the cargo.

Avoid plastic mats with spikes - they will scratch paint when rubbed.