Space Plus in the car: we analyze the technology that changes the interior space

• 🪑 The rear seats fold into a “table” or are retracted into the floor, forming a flat cargo area;
• 📦 Trunk volume increases from 300 to 1300 liters due to transformation;
• 🔒 Seat clamps can withstand loads of up to 50 kg (even bicycles can be transported).

Interesting fact: in Skoda Octavia with Space Plus the trunk has a volume 600 l in standard mode and 1740 l with the seats folded down, that's more than many crossovers! At the same time, the length of the machine remains within the limits 4.7 m.

Advantages and disadvantages of Space Plus

Like any technology, Space Plus has its pros and cons. Let's start with the obvious advantages:

• ✅ Versatility: one platform suitable for hatchbacks, sedans and station wagons;
• ✅ Flexibility: the ability to quickly transform the interior for cargo or passengers;
• ✅ Ergonomics: optimal arrangement of controls and storage areas;
• ✅ Security: body rigidity does not suffer due to the use of high-strength materials.

However, there is also the other side of the coin:

⚠️ Attention: Some models with Space Plus there is no spare wheel - it is installed instead Run-Flat rubber or repair kit. This is due to the need to free up space under the trunk floor for transformable elements.

• ❌ Difficulty of repair: modular platforms require specialized equipment;
• ❌ Additional weight: reinforced body elements and transformation mechanisms increase weight;
• ❌ Price: cars with Space Plus usually 5–15% more expensive than analogues;
• ❌ Load Limitations: Not all models are designed to carry heavy loads.

For example, in Volkswagen Tiguan with the system Space Plus maximum roof load reduced from 100 kg up to 75 kg due to the modified design of the racks. This is important to consider when installing boxes or transporting skis.

Which cars support Space Plus?

Technology Space Plus (or its analogues under other names) is used today by many manufacturers. Here are the key brands and models:

I wonder what Honda was a pioneer in this direction - their system Magic Seat debuted back in 2001 on the first generation Honda Jazz. Today, even budget brands have similar solutions, for example, Dacia (model Jogger with a 7-seater saloon based on a platform CMF-B).

How to activate and use Space Plus?

Many car owners with Space Plus They are not even aware of all the capabilities of the system. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to use it:

1. Adjusting the front seats:
   • 🔄 Use the lever under the seat to move it forward until it stops (mode Easy Entry);
   • 📏 In some models (for example, Skoda) there is a function Memory — maintain the optimal position for the driver and passenger.
2. Transformation of the rear seats:
   • 🪑 Pull the loops on the backs (usually marked red or yellow);
   • 📦 B Honda Jazz the seats can be folded into a “table” or put into the floor - to do this, you first need to lift the cushion.

• 🕳️ Raise the trunk floor - there may be an additional compartment (for example, in Volkswagen Golf);
• 🚪 Check the door cards - often there are niches for bottles or small items.

⚠️ Attention: Do not exceed the maximum load on the folding seats! For example, in Skoda Octavia The rear seat backs can withstand up to 50 kg, but if you put a heavy load on them, you can damage the transformation mechanism.

In some vehicles (eg Toyota RAV4) to activate the maximum space mode you need:

1. Fold down the rear seats (lever on the back);
2. Fold the head restraints forward;
3. Raise the trunk floor to the second level (if provided).

Space Plus and security: what you need to know?

One of the main myths about Space Plus - that it reduces the safety of the car. In fact, modern systems undergo the same crash tests as traditional bodies. However, there are several nuances:

• 🛡️ Deformation zones: in cars with Space Plus they are designed so that the impact energy is distributed around the transformed elements;
• 👶 Child seats: on some models (eg Honda HR-V) the rear seats have restrictions on the installation of child seats due to the folding mechanism;
• 🔋 Battery location: If it is moved under the front seats, access to it for replacement or “lighting” may be difficult.

Important: in case of an accident do not try to disassemble transformable elements yourself - this may lead to additional injuries. For example, in Volkswagen Tiguan with Space Plus The rear seats lock automatically when the airbags deploy.

Common problems and their solutions

Despite the reliability, car owners with Space Plus sometimes they face difficult problems. Here are the most common ones and how to fix them:

If extraneous noise appears in your car when driving over uneven surfaces, this may be due to loosening of the fastenings of the transformable elements. For example, in Skoda Octavia Sometimes it is necessary to tighten the rear seat rail mounting bolts (access through the trunk).

⚠️ Attention: Never attempt to repair machinery. Space Plus independently if they are associated with a passive safety system (for example, squibs in the seat backs). Contact the service!

FAQ: Answers to popular questions