Trunk comparison: Audi A6 Sedan vs Mercedes Benz CLA Shooting Brake

Key Differences

The most noticeable differences concern the vertical dimensions in the trunk: The height of the trunk opening is +8.3 in (≈+42%) larger in the Mercedes‑Benz CLA Shooting Brake, the depth from the loading edge to the trunk floor is +3.9 in (≈+83%) greater in the CLA, and the loading edge itself sits +3.5 in (≈+14%) higher above the road in the CLA.

Smaller differences (under 10%) are: the Audi A6 has a loading area that is 6.7 in (≈10%) longer with the seats folded down and 3.5 in (≈8%) more length with the first row of seats upright; the trunk opening of the A6 is 2.8 in (≈8%) wider, while the CLA is 1.2 in (≈3%) wider at its narrowest point.

Impact on Usability

Mercedes‑CLA: The significantly higher trunk opening and greater depth create more usable height and depth inside. This makes it easier to accommodate tall items (e.g., boxes, suitcases, or bulky items that need to stand upright) and often also stacking.

On the other hand, the +3.5 in higher loading edge increases the effort required to lift heavy items into the trunk — a disadvantage for regularly loading heavy cargo.

Audi A6: The lower loading edge makes lifting and loading heavy or bulky items easier and more back-friendly. The slightly wider trunk opening (+2.8 in) facilitates loading wider items, and the marginally greater loading length with the seats folded down offers more horizontal usable length for long items.

Overall, the A6 is more advantageous for frequent, ergonomic loading and for wide or long cargo, while the CLA offers benefits in height and interior volume for standing or stacked cargo.