Trunk comparison: Audi A6 Avant vs Volvo XC40
Key Differences
The Audi A6 Avant offers significantly more cargo length and a lower loading floor: with the seats folded down, the trunk of the A6 is 11 in (≈17%) longer, and with the first row of seats upright, it is 10.2 in (≈29%) longer than the Volvo XC40. Additionally, the depth of the trunk (distance from loading edge → trunk floor) is 0.8 in greater in the A6 (here indicated as 100%), which increases the usable interior height behind the loading edge.
The loading edge of the Volvo XC40, on the other hand, is 4.3 in (≈17%) higher above the road than that of the A6. The width differences (at the narrowest point +0.4 in, opening width +0.8 in in favor of the XC40) and the height of the trunk opening are negligible.
Impact on Usability
The longer cargo areas of the A6 Avant (17–29% more length) make it noticeably better suited for long items (e.g., furniture parts, long skis, building materials) and for larger amounts of luggage overall.
The greater depth behind the loading edge offers slightly more interior volume and makes stacking immediately behind the loading edge easier.
The significantly lower loading edge in the A6 (compared to the 4.3 in higher XC40) reduces the effort required to lift heavy loads in and out—more ergonomic when loading boxes, tires, or shopping bags.
In the XC40, the higher loading edge leads to more lifting effort but cannot compensate for practical volume depending on usage (e.g., easier folding of luggage).
The slightly greater width of the XC40 is hardly decisive in practice; it does not compensate for the shorter length and higher loading edge. The identical height of the opening means both vehicles can accommodate tall items equally well in the trunk.
Conclusion
Those who regularly transport long or bulky loads or frequently load heavy items will find the Audi A6 Avant the more practical solution (more length, greater depth, lower loading edge).
The Volvo XC40 offers only slight advantages in opening and interior width, which usually do not outweigh the disadvantages in length and loading edge height in everyday use.