Quote:
Originally Posted by Billfred
I might have to break out the tape measure at lunch tomorrow, as this thread makes me wonder...
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It was longer than tomorrow, but I've had a chance to take a tape measure to some plausible models around the lot. I'm making the brash assumption that the full-size vans, SUVs, and crossovers (which, for us, would entail the GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave, GMC Savana, and GMC Yukon/Yukon XL) will fit a robot without incident. I'm also assuming that robots won't be tripped up by a few bumps in the back cargo area; robots that took every milimeter of space might not fit even where I say it would. Long story short, your mileage may vary.
The Pontiac Torrent (and its sibling, the Chevy Equinox) will fit a robot on its side with inches to spare.
Both generations (2003-2008, and 2009-up) of the Pontiac Vibe will fit a 28"x38" base. All else equal, go for the first generation for two reasons. First, the original can fit a 60" robot with just the back seats down; the 2009 model doesn't go that deep. (2009 models with the 2.4L engine get a fold-flat front passenger seat, which might help those with arm towers.) Second, the 2009 models have rather grippy strips along the cargo area that help keep things from sliding around--good if you're moving smaller things around, potentially frustrating if you try to slide a robot in. First-gen models can take advantage of GM's interior design of earlier this decade and slide it on in without any such hindrances. (Ignoring the robot-hauling aspect, though, I think the new models are a nice improvement in refinement.)
Still on my To-Measure list are the Saab 9-3 SportCombi (the wagon variant of their entry-level model) and the GMC Envoy (or its siblings, the Chevy Trailblazer and Saab 9-7X). The former is a toss-up, in my estimation; I am mostly confident that the Envoy will be able to fit one.
Anyone else make some discoveries in the meantime?