Trunk comparison: Audi Q5 vs Ford S-MAX

Key Differences

The Ford S-Max offers a significantly longer cargo space when the seats are folded down: 12.6 in (19%) more length than the Audi Q5. Even with the first row of seats upright, the S-Max is longer: by 6.7 in (18%). The trunk opening of the S-Max is 5.5 in (18%) higher, which makes loading tall or bulky items easier.

In the Audi Q5, the depth from the loading edge to the trunk floor is 2 in (167%) higher than in the S-Max; additionally, the loading edge of the Q5 is 6.7 in (30%) higher above the ground.

The narrowest interior width of the trunk is the same in both models, while the width of the opening is 7% larger in the Audi (this difference is under 10% and therefore less relevant).

What are the practical implications of these differences?

For transporting long items or when a lot of cargo space is needed, the Ford S-Max clearly has the advantage: the greater overall length with folded seats and the higher opening make it easier to load long, tall, or bulky cargo (e.g., furniture boards, long pipes).

Loading and unloading large items is generally easier in the S-Max because the opening is higher and the vehicle overall appears flatter relative to the loading edge.

The Audi Q5, on the other hand, scores with a deeper loading area between the loading edge and the trunk floor as well as a significantly higher loading edge above the ground.

Practically, this means heavy items must be lifted higher when loading into the Audi because the loading edge is higher; loading therefore requires more effort or aids, but the deeper cargo area inside often allows for more stable securing and is less prone to shifting with short items that require a lower securing position.

For frequent lifting of heavy loads, the Q5 is thus less practical, but for securely stowed luggage or when a higher internal stacking height is needed, it can offer advantages.

In summary: Those who frequently transport long or bulky parts or want to reduce the effort when loading benefit from the Ford S-Max.

Those who prefer a lower-placed loading floor inside the trunk and a higher loading edge (e.g., for certain installation solutions or more stable storage) will find relevant features in the Audi Q5 — albeit at the cost of easier loading and unloading.