[popopine]

Yeah, the problem is not total cubic feet of space lost with the factory spare option. It's where the space is coming from -- the floor is lifted. I would imagine trying sliding in a heavy box, or 2 bags bag of groceries with your hands full would be a PITA. It hits a 3 inch wall. You'd think BMWs crack German engineers could figure this out.

In the meantime, a little elbow grease and a few $, and you can have the best of both worlds. No regrets here
-- OP