I have a 2016 Four on order, so I haven't actually had a chance to see what the deal is with the under hatch storage. I know there is Styrofoam in that compartment and was wondering if that can be removed to create a small storage area. I'm a musician and like to store some back-up equipment, just in case. It all fits nicely in my Gen 2 storage compartment. I read somewhere that the Styrofoam is used to cushion in case of a rear impact, but would forfeit that feature to get some additional storage. Any info from a present owner?
I think all the 2016's have the battery under the back seat, regardless of the chemistry. The diff's are some have a spare, some have a pump-and-slime kit. Either way it's not a lot of volume, especially if there's a spare in there. Personally I wouldn't have a car without spare, but opinions vary.
I'd be surprised if the styrofoam had any structural purpose UNLESS the owner's manual warns against removing it. In my FORD, I removed it, installed a temporary spare & some other "useful stuff". The owner's manual made no mention of the styrofoam.
...possibly the Styrofoam plays a role in road noise reduction? Usually mass is needed but also multiple layers helps on noise.
