Trunk comparison: Audi A3 Sportback vs Ford S-MAX

Key Differences

The Ford S‑Max offers significantly more cargo length: +19.3 in (33%) with seats folded down and +13.8 in (45%) with the front row upright compared to the Audi A3 Sportback. The trunk opening of the S‑Max is 6.3 in (21%) higher, which makes loading tall items easier.

In the Audi, the distance between the loading edge and the trunk floor is noticeably greater: +5.1 in (433%) compared to the S‑Max. Additionally, the loading edge of the A3 sits about 3.9 in (18%) higher above the road than that of the S‑Max.

The width differences are small: width at the narrowest point +1.6 in (4%) and opening width +3.5 in (9%) in favor of the S‑Max — these values are each under 10% and thus less decisive.

Implications for Usability

Due to the greater length and higher opening, the S‑Max clearly has an advantage with long or bulky loads (e.g., furniture, bicycles lengthwise, bulky boxes). The lower loading edge of the S‑Max makes lifting heavy items and loading/unloading without lifting aids or long ramps easier.

The A3 has a more pronounced trunk "well" due to the greater depth between the loading edge and floor — items lie deeper and are better held in the cargo space, so they slide less.

At the same time, the higher loading edge above the road increases the effort required to lift and makes loading heavy or bulky items less comfortable.

Practically, this means: for frequent transport of heavy or long goods, the S‑Max is clearly more suitable; for occasional transport of smaller, securely stowed cargo, the A3 can be sufficient.