Years ago, my vehicle’s cargo area was constantly taking a beating. Groceries would spill, gardening supplies would leave dirt trails, and anything I tossed back there seemed to slide around during turns, leaving scuff marks and the potential for breakage. It was a constant source of frustration, and without adequate protection, I knew the trunk’s carpeting would eventually become permanently stained and worn, significantly impacting the car’s cleanliness and potentially its resale value. Finding a durable, effective solution to this problem was crucial.
Before investing in a cargo mat, it’s important to think about what you need it for and your specific vehicle. Cargo mats are designed to protect the floor of your trunk or SUV cargo area from spills, dirt, debris, and wear and tear. They’re ideal for anyone who regularly hauls items that could be messy – pet owners, gardeners, DIY enthusiasts, grocery shoppers, sports parents, or just someone who wants to keep their vehicle’s interior pristine. If you rarely use your cargo space or only transport clean, bagged items, you might not need a heavy-duty liner.
When choosing a cargo mat, several factors come into play. Consider the size of your cargo area and whether you need a custom fit or a universal one that can be trimmed. Think about the material – do you need something robust and weather-resistant like rubber, or is a lighter fabric sufficient? Grip is also important; you want a mat that stays put and prevents your cargo from sliding. Ease of cleaning is another key point, as the primary purpose is containment and protection. Finally, consider the edge height – higher edges offer better spill containment.
- Flex Tough - Our Advanced Performance Rubber Polymers are Tested for Extreme Conditions to Ensure they Don't Crack, Split or Deform
- No-Slip Grip - Rubberized Nibs on the Bottom so the Mat Does not Move - Ergonomic Grooves on Top to Give your Foot Traction & Comfort
- Built for Protection - Guard Against Spills, or Debris - Built to Last through Rain, Snow, Mud and More - Anti-Slip Backing - 1 Trunk Liner for Full Cargo Protection
Introducing the Motor Trend Premium FlexTough Liner
Enter the Motor Trend Premium FlexTough All-Protection Cargo Mat Liner. This product promises heavy-duty, all-weather protection for the back of your car, truck, or SUV. It arrives as a single, large black mat designed to provide full cargo protection. Unlike rigid plastic liners, this one emphasizes flexibility and toughness, aiming for a universal fit that you can customize yourself. While custom-fit liners are available from various brands (often at a higher price point), the appeal of the Motor Trend mat lies in its combination of durable construction, features aimed at preventing slips, and the ability to tailor its shape to your specific vehicle, offering a cost-effective alternative to vehicle-specific options.
This particular cargo mat liner is best suited for individuals who need solid protection against spills and debris and are comfortable with a degree of DIY to achieve the perfect fit. It might not be ideal for someone looking for an exact, drop-in factory-style fit without any effort, or for those with very unusual or small cargo spaces where the trimming might become overly complicated.
Pros:
* Heavy-duty, durable construction.
* Excellent non-slip grip on both the mat and cargo.
* Effective at containing spills and debris.
* Trimmable design allows for a customizable fit.
* Generally easy to clean.
Cons:
* May require trimming for most vehicles.
* Universal fit means it might not cover every nook and cranny.
* Some users have noted an initial odor.
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- Flex Tough - Our Advanced Performance Rubber Polymers are Tested for Extreme Conditions to Ensure they Don't Crack, Split or Deform
Key Features and Their Advantages
Having used the Motor Trend FlexTough Cargo Mat for a considerable period, I can genuinely speak to how its advertised features translate into real-world benefits. The claims made in the product description hold up well, particularly regarding its durability and protective qualities.
Flex Tough Construction
One of the standout aspects of this trunk liner is its “Flex Tough” construction. Motor Trend uses advanced performance rubber polymers, which are specifically tested for extreme conditions. What this means in practice is a mat that feels substantial and well-made, not flimsy or cheap. I’ve had other mats in the past that cracked or became brittle in very cold or hot weather, but this cargo mat has maintained its integrity and flexibility regardless of the temperature outside. This durability ensures that it can withstand heavy items being placed on it, resist tearing, and truly provide long-term protection without deforming over time. It solves the core problem of needing a reliable barrier that won’t give out under pressure or environmental stress.
Superior Grip and Traction
The “No-Slip Grip” feature is twofold and incredibly effective. On the bottom, the mat has rubberized nibs. These small spikes create friction against the vehicle’s carpeted cargo floor, preventing the mat itself from sliding around. Anyone who’s had a cargo mat bunch up or shift knows how annoying and potentially unsafe that can be (imagine braking hard and your mat slides forward with your cargo!). The nibs on the Motor Trend Cargo Mat keep it firmly anchored.
Equally important are the ergonomic grooves on the top surface. These aren’t just for aesthetics; they provide traction for your cargo. Items placed on the mat tend to stay put much better than on a smooth surface or standard carpeting. Whether it’s a box of tools, bags of mulch, or luggage, the textured surface minimizes shifting during acceleration, braking, and cornering. This not only prevents items from potentially damaging the interior but also reduces distracting noises from things rattling around in the back. The combination of the mat staying put and the cargo staying put is a huge win for practicality and peace of mind.
All-Weather Protection
Living in an area that experiences varying weather conditions, the “Built for Protection” aspect of the FlexTough liner has been invaluable. The heavy-duty material acts as a robust barrier against spills, mud, snow, rain, and general debris. I’ve hauled everything from wet umbrellas and muddy boots after a hike to leaky grocery bags and potted plants, and the mat has contained the mess every single time. The raised edges (though not extremely high, they are sufficient) also help to trap liquids and dirt, preventing them from seeping onto the original carpet. This level of protection is crucial for maintaining the cleanliness and condition of your vehicle’s cargo area, which can be particularly prone to messes. It simplifies cleanup immensely – instead of trying to spot clean stubborn stains from carpet, you just deal with the mat.
Universal & Trimmable Design
The universal fit design, capable of being trimmed to size (up to 54″L x 37″W), is a double-edged sword, but ultimately beneficial for most users. While it requires some effort, the ability to cut the Motor Trend Premium Cargo Mat to fit your specific vehicle’s contours is a significant advantage over rigid, ill-fitting universal mats. The mat comes with helpful guidelines molded into the surface, making the trimming process straightforward using a decent pair of scissors or a utility knife. This customization ensures that you get the maximum possible coverage for your cargo area, protecting edges and corners that a standard rectangular mat might miss. While it’s designed to fit a wide range of cars, trucks, and SUVs, it’s important to check the maximum dimensions against your vehicle’s cargo space before purchasing to ensure it’s large enough to start with. As some users have noted, if your trunk is significantly larger than the mat’s maximum size, trimming won’t help with the lack of coverage at the edges.
Easy Installation and Cleaning
Installation couldn’t be simpler – once trimmed (if necessary), you just place the heavy duty trunk liner on the floor of your cargo area. No complex clips or fasteners are required, thanks to the anti-slip backing. Removing it for cleaning is just as easy. When it gets dirty – which it will, because it’s doing its job – you simply lift it out of the vehicle. Cleaning typically involves shaking off loose debris, hosing it down, and perhaps using a brush with some soap and water for more stubborn grime. It dries relatively quickly and can be put back in place. This ease of maintenance is a major plus, encouraging regular cleaning and ensuring your vehicle stays tidy without much hassle.
While the Motor Trend FlexTough mat excels in many areas, it’s worth noting a couple of minor drawbacks. As mentioned, the trimming process, while guided, does require some effort and care to get a precise fit around wheel wells or other protrusions. Also, while many users report no strong smell, a few have mentioned an initial plastic or rubber odor that may take a little time to dissipate, particularly if you are sensitive to smells. However, in my experience and based on the overall positive feedback, these seem to be relatively minor points compared to the significant benefits the mat provides.
Hear From Others About the Motor Trend Cargo Mat
Having looked online at what other owners think, it’s clear many share my positive experiences. People frequently mention how easy the cargo mat was to cut to fit their specific vehicle, with standard scissors being sufficient for the task. Many appreciate that their belongings no longer slide around when driving, praising the mat’s grippy surface. The heavy-duty feel and durability are also common points of praise, with users stating it doesn’t feel like cheap plastic. While most found the fit excellent after trimming, a few noted that the mat wasn’t quite long enough for their specific model, even within the universal design, which is something to consider based on your vehicle’s dimensions. Overall, the sentiment is very positive, with users highly recommending the product for its protective qualities and value.
Wrapping It Up
Protecting your vehicle’s cargo area from spills, dirt, and damage is essential if you want to maintain its condition and value. Without proper protection, small accidents can lead to permanent stains and wear, creating an eyesore and potentially costly issues down the line. The Motor Trend Premium FlexTough All-Protection Cargo Mat Liner offers a robust solution. Its durable, all-weather construction, superior non-slip properties for both the mat and your cargo, and trimmable design make it a great fit for a wide range of vehicles and needs. It effectively contains messes and keeps your trunk looking clean. If you’re looking for a reliable, heavy-duty cargo liner that offers excellent protection and can be customized for a better fit than many generic options, this Motor Trend cargo mat is definitely worth considering.
To check out the product and see if it’s the right fit for your vehicle’s protection needs, Click here.
Last update on 2025-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API