Trunk comparison: Audi A3 Sportback vs VW Touran
Key Differences
VW Touran has a 11.8 in (20%) longer cargo space with folded seats than the Audi A3 Sportback. VW Touran offers a 9.4 in (31%) longer cargo space with the first row of seats upright than the A3. Audi A3 Sportback has a 16.9 in (126%) longer trunk with all seats upright than the Touran. The height of the trunk opening of the VW Touran is 3.5 in (12%) larger than that of the Audi A3. The depth of the trunk (loading edge to trunk floor) of the Audi A3 Sportback is 5.9 in (1500%) greater than that of the VW Touran.
Impact on Usability
Loading comfort and long items: Due to the 11.8 in longer loading area with folded seats and the 9.4 in longer loading area with the first row of seats upright, the VW Touran clearly has the advantage when it comes to transporting long or bulky items (e.g., furniture parts, long skis, boards).
The 3.5 in higher trunk opening of the Touran additionally facilitates loading tall or bulky cargo.
Daily luggage transport with passengers: The Audi A3 clearly wins when all seats are upright: it offers 16.9 in more trunk length, allowing significantly more luggage to be accommodated when fully occupied.
The significantly greater trunk depth (5.9 in more) also means that items can be stored deeper and more securely; this increases the usable loading height under the cargo cover and reduces shifting of the load.
Handling heavy loads: The loading edge height of the A3 is 2 in higher (not >10%, therefore not highlighted), which means a bit more lifting effort when loading and unloading heavy items. In the Touran, the higher opening and longer loading area practically make it more comfortable when maneuvering bulky parts.
Width and narrow spots: The differences in trunk width and opening (each +2.4 in and +2.8 in in favor of the Touran) are small (<10%) and have only minor significance in most everyday scenarios; very wide pallets or boxes might fit slightly easier in the Touran.
Conclusion
For regular transport of long or very bulky items as well as for easier loading of tall items, the VW Touran is more practical. For trips with full occupancy plus luggage and for a lower, more secure storage area, the Audi A3 Sportback is the better choice.