Trunk comparison: Audi A6 Avant vs BMW 5 Series Touring

Key Differences (Compact)

The most noticeable difference is the trunk depth (measured from the loading edge to the trunk floor): the Audi A6 Avant is +0.8 in (+100%) larger here than the BMW 5 Series Touring. This difference exceeds the 10% mark and is thus the most significant relatively.

Other differences (each in favor of Audi or BMW) are: the Audi offers +2.4 in (≈3%) longer cargo space with folded seats and +3.1 in (≈7%) with the first row upright, as well as a +1.2 in (≈4%) higher opening height.

The BMW has a narrowest trunk width that is +2.8 in (≈7%) larger and a trunk opening width that is +0.8 in (≈2%) wider; additionally, the BMW's loading edge is +0.8 in (≈3%) higher above the road than the Audi's.

Impact on Practical Usability

Significantly increased trunk depth (Audi): The +0.8 in deeper loading floor in the Audi means that cargo sits deeper relative to the loading edge.

Practically, this means flat or low items can be stored a bit deeper and thus more securely, and the usable interior height under the tailgate increases slightly. Since the percentage difference is given as very high, it should be noted that it is only 0.8 in in absolute terms — but noticeable for some cargo.

Length advantage Audi: The slightly longer cargo space (6–3.1 in) makes the Audi better suited for longer items (e.g., slats, boards, skis in a through-loaded state). The advantage is practical but not large — it mainly helps when dimensions are close to the limit of what fits in a trunk.

Width advantage BMW: The BMW offers about 2.8 in more width at the narrowest point and a slightly larger opening width. This is noticeable when loading wider items (e.g., boxes, furniture parts, transport restrictions due to wheel arches): wider cargo fits through more easily and is easier to position.

Loading edge height: The BMW's loading edge is about 0.8 in higher than the Audi's. For frequent lifting of heavy loads, the Audi with the lower loading edge is more comfortable because less effort is required. Conversely, the BMW has a slightly higher lift height when loading.

Practical Recommendation

Choose the Audi A6 Avant if you frequently transport longer items or heavy loads and want to benefit from the slightly deeper cargo floor and lower loading edge.

Choose the BMW 5 Series Touring if you more often transport wide items and want to benefit from the greater narrow width and the minimally larger opening width.