8 of our best cars for bike racks
Things for cyclists to consider
Loading your bike into the back of your ride isn’t easy. In fact, sometimes it’s almost impossible. Fortunately, we have compiled a list of the top cars for hauling your bike in the back, regardless of what type you ride.
Some of these cars may fit your bike without any accommodations. Others may require you to remove the front wheel or fold down a seat.
Look at its history
Either way, if you buy a used rather than new vehicle, investigate vehicle history on CarVeto database, confirm the mileage is genui0ne and make sure the car has not been involved in accidents. The best car check providers include on the road costs, service schedules and recent maintenance work.
Land Rover Discovery
Since it first hit the market in 2017, the Discovery has proven to be one the best family SUVs on the market, especially for those families that need room for all their outdoor toys or an off-road adventure.
In addition to its spacious three row interior, the Land Rover Discovery has a massive 981-litre boot. The two rear seats can be folded down to accommodate two bikes (with the front wheels removed). On the poshest models, the seats can be folded down into the floor electronically, using either the touchscreen system, a phone app, or buttons in the boot. On the base models, this must be manually done.
If you need all three interior rows, Land Rover does offer towbar mounted carriers. They’ll carry two or three bikes with a max weight of 40 kg - 51 kg. Another option is to affix a couple bike racks onto the roof tails up top. Keep in mind that this SUV is tall, which can make it more difficult to attach them.
On the flip side, the Discovery does have a high price tag and a less than stellar reputation for reliability.
Nissan X-Trail
One of the most affordable vehicles on the list, the X-Trail also offers plenty of space, especially when compared to similarly sized vehicles, such as the Audi Q5. Designed to fit 7, the X-Trail’s middle row of seats are situated on runners, allowing you to choose between additional load space or legroom. The 550-litre boot, which features a two-part adjustable load floor, can be expanded to almost 2,000 litres when the second row is folded down. Plus, there’s no load lip to drag your bike over.
A roof rack can be purchased separately and four-wheel drive is available.
Mercedes E-Class Estate
Along with its versatility and ample space (640-litre boot or 1820-litre with the seats down), the E-Class Estate offers a luxurious and comfortable ride. Take the front wheels off and you can fit two bikes in the back. And, as an added bonus, the boot liner makes it easy to keep everything clean.
If you have a few more bikes, there is an optional rear-mounted bike carrier that can accommodate three or a roof rack that can hold four.
You can expect the price tag to reflect the luxury riding experience.
Skoda Superb Estate
No list about bikes would be complete without the Skoda Superb Estate. After all, it is the Tour de France support fleet car, and it’s affordably priced. The Superb Estate boasts a 660-litre boot with vertical sides, a low floor, and a wide opening, making it easy to get bikes in and out. If you fold the rear seats down, you can easily fit a couple of adult bikes. To keep your interior spotless, you may want to consider an optional towbar carrier or roof rack.
If you’re a fan of mountain-biking, the four-wheel drive Superb Estate may be your best option.
If you are intent on getting the best value for your money, the Skoda Superb Estate is definitely worth considering.
Dacia Duster
If you’re on a strict budget and are looking for a small, yet rugged SUV, the Dacia Duster may be exactly what you are looking for. The 4WD model has a 376-litre boot (411 litres if you leave the spare tire behind), while the 2WD includes a 445-litre boot. Fold the back seats down and you’ll have 1623 litres to use.
Unfortunately, the Duster can’t accommodate bike carriers or roof racks, so you are very limited in terms of how many bikes you can haul. You should know that the Duster did score (in 2017) a less than impressive 3 out of 5 stars when crash tested by Euro NCAP.
Volvo V60
Comfy, classy, and spacious best describe the Volvo 360. The Momentum Pro has a 529-litre boot, but expands to an impressive 1441 when all the rear seats are folded up. Additionally, it has an easy to use electrically operated tailgate and there is a lower-level space for added storage, though the extra space is not available on hybrid models.
There are several versions of the Volvo V60 to choose from, including those with diesel, petrol, and hybrid engines. Only the V60 Cross Country is available with a 4WD.
If you need to haul a few more bikes, you can purchase a roof-mounted carrier with a self-adjusting holder and quick-release clasp. It’s available for less than￡100.
Skoda Karoq
Designed with practicality in mind, the Karoq is a mid-size SUV featuring a sleek interior that is equipped with what is arguably one of the simplest operating systems and best touchscreens in the class.
The Karoq has a VarioFlex seating system, giving drivers the opportunity to rearrange the rear passenger seats. They can be folded down individually or lifted out completely, giving the Karoq 1630 litres of load space. To prevent bikes from sliding around, you can tie them to the hooks in the boot (intended for shopping bags)
To carry up to four bikes, add a Skoda roof rack to the top. Made from lightweight aluminum, the roof rack is easy to mount and includes a secure lock.
Volkswagen Golf Estate
Launched in 2013, the Golf Estate has been around longer than the other vehicles on the list, making it more likely that you could find a used model for an affordable price. It’s established a reputation for being well-made, reliable, and practical.
The Golf Estate has a 605-litre boot that expands to a generous 1620 llitres simply by folding down the back seats. The floor of the boot is flat, making it easier to load and unload bikes.
Volkswagen does have a towbar mounted carrier that can accommodate 2-3 bikes, as well as a roof mounted bike rack.
