Trunk comparison: Audi A6 Avant vs Mercedes Benz GLE

Key Points (Essential Differences)

The Audi A6 Avant offers a trunk that is 4.7 in (11%) longer with the first row of seats upright than the Mercedes‑GLE. This means more length for long items without having to fold down the rear seats.

The height of the GLE's trunk opening is 3.1 in (11%) higher than that of the A6 Avant. This makes it easier to load bulky or tall cargo in the upright position into the GLE.

The depth of the trunk (loading edge → trunk floor) of the A6 Avant is 0.8 in (100%) greater than that of the GLE. Note: The percentage value is high because the base difference is very small; in absolute terms, it is only 0.8 in. Practically, this means that cargo lies slightly deeper in the A6's cargo area.

The loading edge of the GLE is 5.1 in (20%) higher above the road than that of the A6 Avant. A significantly higher lift height when loading heavy items.

Impact on Usability

For long items with the rear seats occupied (e.g., skis, long moldings), the A6 Avant has the advantage due to the 4.7 in longer usable loading length: such items can more often be transported without folding down the seats.

The GLE is better suited for tall or bulky cargo loaded in an upright position because the trunk opening is 3.1 in higher.

However, the 5.1 in higher loading edge makes lifting and loading heavy or bulky items significantly more strenuous — the higher clearance helps accommodate the height of the item, but the higher lift height complicates handling.

The 0.8 in lower loading edge in the A6 (relatively large in percentage but small in absolute terms) ensures that cargo lies slightly deeper; combined with the overall lower loading edge, this provides ergonomic advantages when lifting (less lift angle) and somewhat better hold against slipping.

Width differences (trunk at the narrowest point +2 in and opening width +2.4 in in favor of the GLE) as well as the 0.8 in longer loading surface with fully folded seats (+1%) are comparatively small and hardly affect everyday usability.

Conclusion

Those who frequently transport long items and want to lift ergonomically less will benefit more from the Audi A6 Avant. Those who transport bulky, tall cargo in an upright position get more opening height in the Mercedes‑GLE — but must live with a significantly higher loading edge, which makes loading more difficult.