Hey everyone! I recently picked up an Outlander PHEV and I'm struggling to keep the trunk tidy. Between the bulky charging cables and groceries sliding around, it's getting messy. Does anyone have recommendations for organizers that fit the specific floor dimensions and don't block the underfloor storage? Which brands or setups are you using?
Hmm, I've had a different experience. Not to disagree with the previous suggestions, but I'd actually suggest a different approach because those massive, heavy bins can be a real safety risk in a collision—basically becoming projectiles if the straps fail. Plus, they always seem to block the charging cable hatch right when you're in a rush.
> For your situation, I'd suggest focusing on stability.
Honestly, after years of trial and error, I found that 'less is more' for both your budget and safety. I skip the $50+ organizers and use a simple Trunk Cargo Net for Mitsubishi Outlander which is usually only about $18. It keeps groceries pinned down tight so they dont slide. For everything else, I use CleverMade 46L Collapsible Milk Crates. They're like $12 and fold flat in seconds so you can reach your cables easily. It's way cheaper and safer imo. Just be careful not to stack 'em too high... peace!
Yo, had a moment to think about this more cuz I actually went through this last year when I first got my PHEV. Honestly, it was sooo frustrating trying to find something that didn't feel like a cheap universal hack. I tried a few setups that were honestly just a letdown for the price.
• Initially, I grabbed a rigid plastic tub, but it was a DISASTER. It blocked the hinge clearance for the under-floor storage where the level 1 charger sits, so I had to lift the whole heavy bin every time I needed the cable. Super annoying.
• Then I tried the Starling's Car Trunk Organizer with Adjustable Compartments. It is cheap, usually around $29, but the technical specs on the 'non-slip' bottom are basically a lie imo. It slid everywhere because the PHEV's trunk carpet is weirdly slick compared to other SUVs.
• Eventually, I found that using the Fortem Car Trunk Organizer with Straps and Cover worked best for my budget—I think I paid like $24 on Amazon.
Basically, the technical detail you gotta watch for is the tie-down straps. Since the PHEV has that instant electric torque, stuff moves way faster than in a gas car. This one has straps that clip right into the factory Mitsubishi D-rings so it stays put. Plus, it is collapsible so if I need to haul bigger gear, I just flatten it and it doesnt block the lid. Just my experience... dont waste money on those hard plastic bins that dont breathe... gl!
In my experience, I'd suggest these two for your PHEV:
• Mitsubishi Motors Genuine Trunk Organizer: Fits the floor LITERALLY perfectly. Pros: No sliding and keeps that underfloor storage accessible. Cons: Pricey tbh.
• Drive Auto Car Trunk Organizer: Way cheaper. Pros: Collapsible and holds tons of groceries. Cons: Kinda blocks the floor hatch when it's full.
I've used both and basically prefer the OEM one... what do u think tho?
For your situation, I'd suggest focusing on stability. I tried several 'universal' bins but the lateral movement on that slick floor blocked the hatch... sooo frustrating.
- Starling's Car Trunk Organizer with Tie-Down Straps
- Knodel Sturdy Car Trunk Organizer
These anchor to the factory hooks so you dont have to move everything just to reach your charging cables. gl!
To add to the point above: it really is a struggle finding something that doesnt feel like a massive compromise. Honestly, I tried going the full OEM route because I thought the brand name would mean better fitment, but it was honestly just a letdown for the price. Not as good as I expected at all, unfortunately. I think I read somewhere that the newer PHEV floor dimensions are slightly different than the older gas models, which might be why everything feels like a weird fit. Not 100% sure on that though, so dont quote me... but it would explain a lot. It just seems like no matter what brand you go with, those big bins always end up getting in the way when you need to grab the charging cable in a hurry. IIRC someone mentioned that the European accessory catalog has better slim-line options, but getting those shipped here is a total nightmare. Kinda sucks that we get the short end of the stick with cargo options sometimes, basically makes the trunk feel way smaller than it actually is.