Imagine standing on the corner of Flaming Lips Alley in Bricktown, Oklahoma City, clutching a receipt for a massive, flat-packed box you just scored at an outlet sale. You look at your sleek, midnight silver Tesla Model 3 rental parked at the curb. A sudden wave of "trunk anxiety" hits. It’s a common feeling. Most people see the Model 3’s aerodynamic silhouette and assume it’s a minimalist machine with no room for the spoils of a Saturday shopping spree.
We’ve seen this play out dozens of times at Frontier Tesla. Customers ask us the same thing before they head toward the OKC Outlets or the shops in Midtown: "Can this thing actually hold my stuff?"
The answer is a resounding yes, but there’s a strategy to it. If you’re looking for a Tesla Model 3 rental OKC storage solution that doesn't involve leaving your purchases on the sidewalk, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve stress-tested these cars with everything from IKEA hauls to oversized camping gear. Here is the definitive guide to maximizing space in your Model 3 rental.
The Bricktown Box Challenge: Will It Fit?
Let’s address the most pressing question first. Will a large box from a Bricktown outlet fit in a Tesla Model 3?
Generally, yes. But "large" is a relative term. In our experience, the Model 3 is surprisingly cavernous because it lacks the mechanical intrusions of an internal combustion engine. There is no transmission tunnel hump in the back seat. There is no gas tank taking up space under the trunk floor.
According to official Tesla specifications, the Model 3 offers 22.9 cubic feet of total cargo space with the seats up. When you fold those seats down, that number jumps to 43 cubic feet. For context, a 2024 study by Consumer Reports noted that the Model 3’s cargo capacity is competitive with many small SUVs, despite its sedan classification.
If your box is flat—think a coffee table or a large TV (up to 55 or 65 inches depending on the packaging)—it will almost certainly fit if you utilize the pass-through. However, if the box is a perfect cube, you might run into trouble with the height of the trunk opening.
Navigating the Model 3 Trunk Opening
Here’s the thing about the Model 3: it’s a sedan, not a hatchback. This is the single most important detail for OKC shoppers to remember.
The trunk opening is roughly 18 inches high and 37 inches wide at its narrowest point. If you’re trying to slide in a bulky item like a pre-assembled armchair or a large kitchen appliance, the "lip" of the trunk might be your biggest obstacle.
Is the Trunk Opening Wide Enough for Bulky Items?
For most shopping items, the width is rarely the issue. The Model 3 trunk is quite deep, extending far back toward the rear seats. We’ve found that the bottleneck is almost always the vertical clearance.
If you’re at the Bricktown outlets and you’re eyeing a piece of furniture, bring a tape measure. If the item is under 18 inches tall when laid on its side, it will slide right in. If it’s taller, don't panic yet. You might just need to use the back doors.
The "Secret" to Extra Space: Folding the Rear Seats
If the trunk alone isn't cutting it, you need to expand your horizons. Folding the rear seats is the "pro move" for any Tesla Model 3 rental OKC storage situation.
How Do I Fold Down the Rear Seats in a Model 3?
We get this question at least three times a week. Thankfully, Tesla made it incredibly simple. You don't need to hunt for obscure levers or consult a manual.
- Locate the Latches: Open the rear passenger doors. On the top outer corner of each rear seat backrest, you’ll find a small, recessed handle/latch.
- Pull and Push: Pull the latch toward the front of the car. The seat will unlock.
- Collapse: Push the seat backrest forward. It will fold nearly flat, creating a continuous load floor from the back of the trunk to the front seats.
Pro Tip: Make sure the front seats are moved slightly forward before you do this. If the front seats are all the way back, the rear headrests might catch, preventing a completely flat fold.
Once those seats are down, the Model 3 transforms. You now have a cargo area that is over 6 feet long. We’ve seen customers fit surfboards, rugs, and even twin-sized mattresses (for "Tesla Camping" mode) into this space. Your Bricktown outlet finds won't stand a chance.
Don't Forget the Frunk: The Front Trunk Advantage
One of the coolest features of a Tesla is the "Frunk"—the front trunk. Since there’s no engine under the hood, Tesla turned that space into a secondary storage compartment.
The Model 3 frunk offers about 3.1 cubic feet of space. It’s the perfect spot for:
- Takeout from Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill (keeps the smell out of the main cabin).
- Small grocery bags.
- Charging cables.
- Valuables you want to keep out of sight.
It’s not huge, but it’s deep. Think of it as a bonus locker for your smaller OKC treasures.
The Hidden Hero: The Sub-Trunk Storage
If you open the trunk and think, "Is that it?", look down. Lift the carpeted floor panel at the very back of the trunk.
Underneath, you’ll find a massive "sub-trunk" well. This area is surprisingly deep—easily enough to hold two carry-on suitcases or several bags of groceries. Because it’s recessed, it’s also great for items that might roll around, like a gallon of milk or a bowling ball (if you’re heading to Dust Bowl Lanes in Midtown).
When you combine the main trunk, the sub-trunk, the frunk, and the folded-seat area, the Model 3 starts to feel less like a sedan and more like a magic trick.
Real-World Scenarios: What Actually Fits?
We believe in data, but we also believe in anecdotes. Here are a few things our Frontier Tesla customers have successfully hauled in their Model 3 rentals:
- The "Blue Box" Test: Four large IKEA bags fit comfortably in the trunk alone, with room for two more in the sub-trunk.
- The Golf Outing: Two full-sized golf bags fit across the width of the trunk if you remove the drivers.
- The Grocery Haul: A full cart from the Whole Foods on Western Ave fits with the seats up, provided you use the sub-trunk for the heavy stuff.
- The Tech Upgrade: A 65-inch TV (in the box) will fit, but only if you fold the rear seats and slide it in through the trunk. It will be tight, and you’ll need to move the front seats up, but it’s doable.
Why Rent a Tesla for Your OKC Shopping Trip?
You might be wondering: "Why not just rent a boring SUV?"
Fair question. But here’s the thing. Driving a Tesla Model 3 through Oklahoma City isn't just about utility; it’s about the experience.
1. Self-Driving Capability
All our rentals at Frontier Tesla are self-driving-capable. Navigating the I-40 or the Broadway Extension is infinitely less stressful when the car handles the stop-and-go traffic for you. You can focus on planning your next stop while the car maintains its lane and distance.
2. Downtown Pickup Convenience
We are located right in the heart of the city. You don't have to trek out to Will Rogers World Airport and deal with the rental car shuttle nightmare. Pick up your car downtown, hit the shops, and be back at your hotel in minutes.
3. Fuel Savings (Or Lack Thereof)
Gas prices in Oklahoma can fluctuate wildly. With a Tesla, you’re bypassing the pump entirely. There are Superchargers located conveniently near the OKC Outlets and in the downtown core. You can add 175 miles of range in about 15 minutes—just enough time to grab a coffee at Elemental Coffee in Midtown.
Key Takeaways for Your Model 3 Rental
Before you head out, keep these points in mind to master your Tesla Model 3 rental OKC storage:
- Measure twice, buy once: If your item is over 18 inches tall, check if it can lay flat.
- Use the sub-trunk: It’s the best place for heavy or rolling items.
- Fold the seats early: Don't wait until you’re in the parking lot struggling with a box. Fold them down before you start loading.
- Protect the interior: Our Teslas feature premium vegan leather. It’s durable, but if you’re hauling something with sharp edges (like a metal rack), ask us for a blanket or use the floor mats to protect the seat backs.
- Check the frunk: It’s easy to forget it exists. Use it for your smaller, more fragile items.
Charging While You Shop: The OKC Infrastructure
One of the best parts about a "Tesla Model 3 rental OKC storage" mission is that the city is actually very EV-friendly.
If you’re shopping in Bricktown, there are several Level 2 chargers in the public parking garages. If you’re at the OKC Outlets on the west side of town, there is a dedicated Tesla Supercharger station right in the parking lot. You can plug in, go buy your shoes, and come back to a fully "refueled" car. It’s the ultimate multitasking.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuel Data Center, Oklahoma has seen a 40% increase in EV charging infrastructure since 2022. You’re never far from a charge in the metro area.
Addressing Common Objections
"I heard Teslas are too small for families." We disagree. While it’s not a Suburban, the Model 3 comfortably seats four adults with plenty of legroom. The flat floor in the back makes the middle seat actually usable, unlike in most gas cars where a hump takes up all the foot space.
"What if I run out of battery while hauling a heavy load?" The weight of your shopping bags will have a negligible impact on your range. Wind resistance and speed are much bigger factors. The car’s navigation system is incredibly accurate; it will tell you exactly how much battery you’ll have when you reach your destination, accounting for weight and weather.
"Is it hard to drive?" It’s different, but not hard. The "One-Pedal Driving" (regenerative braking) takes about five minutes to get used to. After that, you’ll wonder why every car doesn't work this way. It makes navigating the tight streets of the Plaza District or Paseo a breeze.
Conclusion: Book Your OKC Adventure
The Tesla Model 3 is more than just a tech gadget on wheels. It’s a practical, spacious, and incredibly fun way to explore Oklahoma City. Whether you’re hunting for vintage finds in the West Tenth District or hitting the big-box stores in Bricktown, you don't have to sacrifice style for storage.
At Frontier Tesla, we make the process seamless. No long lines, no hidden fees, and a fleet of self-driving-capable cars ready to take you wherever you need to go.
Ready to see how much you can fit? Book your self-driving electric car today and pick it up right downtown. Your Bricktown haul is waiting.
FAQ: Tesla Model 3 Rental OKC Storage
Q: Can I fit a bicycle in the back of a Model 3? A: Yes, if you remove the front wheel and fold the rear seats. We’ve done it many times.
Q: Is the frunk waterproof? A: It is weather-resistant and sealed, making it a great place for damp items or groceries. However, we don't recommend filling it with ice like a cooler!
Q: Does folding the seats affect the air conditioning? A: Not at all. The Model 3’s climate control system is powerful enough to keep the entire cabin—including the expanded cargo area—at your desired temperature.
Q: Where is the best place to park a Tesla in Bricktown? A: Any of the main garages are fine, but look for the ones with EV charging signs to get "front-row" parking and a top-off at the same time.
Sources:
- Tesla Model 3 Owner's Manual - Official dimensions and seat folding instructions.
- Consumer Reports 2024 EV Cargo Study - Comparison of EV cargo space vs. traditional sedans.
- U.S. Department of Energy AFDC - Oklahoma EV charging infrastructure data.
- Frontier Tesla Internal Testing - Real-world fitment tests for common OKC shopping items.