A durable, often custom-fit mat made of rubber, thermoplastic, or heavy-duty carpet that lines the floor of an SUV cargo area or car trunk. It protects the factory upholstery from dirt, spills, and wear caused by hauling tools, parts, or messy loads. Many feature raised lips to contain liquids and are easily removable for washing.
Throw those greasy axle shafts in the back, but make sure the cargo liner is laid down first so we don't ruin the carpet.
Dealerships often sell these as high-margin accessories, but aftermarket options usually offer deeper laser-measured trays that hold spilled fluids better.
Also heard as
- cargo mat
- trunk liner
Related terms
Liftgate
A rear door on a utility vehicle or hatchback that hinges at the roofline and opens upward.
Passenger compartment
The enclosed section of a vehicle designed to house the driver and occupants.
Trunklid
The hinged cover that encloses the rear storage compartment of a sedan or coupe.
Station wagon
A passenger car body style featuring a roofline extended to the rear of the vehicle to maximize cargo space.