Trunk comparison: Audi A6 Sedan vs BMW X3

Key Differences

The Audi A6 offers more loading length, while the BMW X3 scores with a larger loading opening and more width.

Specifically, the trunk of the Audi A6 with the first row of seats upright is +7.9 in (21%) longer than that of the BMW X3; with the seats folded down, the A6's advantage is +6.7 in (10%). The trunk opening of the BMW X3 is significantly higher than that of the A6: +11.4 in (58%).

The depth of the trunk (loading edge to trunk floor) is reported to be +4.7 in (1100%) greater in the Audi A6. The loading edge of the BMW X3, however, is +1.6 in (6%) higher above the ground.

In width, the BMW X3 has +3.1 in (8%) more at the narrowest point, and the width of the trunk opening is +7.1 in (19%) larger on the X3.

Impact on Usability

For long items (e.g., slats, skis, furniture boards), the Audi A6 is advantageous: the 21% greater loading length with the first row of seats upright allows longer loads without folding down the front seats; even with folded seats, the A6 remains somewhat longer.

For bulky or tall items (e.g., boxes, larger suitcases, tall equipment), the BMW X3 is more practical because the opening is significantly higher and the opening width is 19% larger — this makes it easier to load bulky parts and reduces tipping when loading.

The deep loading floor of the Audi (reported as a significantly greater distance from the loading edge to the trunk floor) means that cargo sits lower and can be better stacked in the cargo space, but reaching into the deep space can be inconvenient with heavy loads.

The higher loading edge (+1.6 in) on the X3 makes lifting heavy items somewhat more strenuous but is partially offset by the larger opening. Overall: Audi A6 = better for longer, flat, or deeply layered loads; BMW X3 = better for tall, wide, or bulky items and easier access due to the larger opening.