Trunk comparison: Audi Q5 vs Mercedes Benz GLE
Key Differences (more than 10%)
Mercedes‑Benz GLE has +11 in (17%) more cargo space with seats folded down. This means: longer items (e.g., slats, furniture parts, skis) fit significantly better in the GLE and can be stored more flatly. Those who regularly transport long loads noticeably benefit from the GLE.
Mercedes‑Benz GLE has +3.9 in (11%) longer trunk with the first row of seats upright. Even with full seating, the GLE offers more usable loading length, which makes transporting longer everyday items easier (e.g., smaller furniture, construction or sports equipment).
Audi Q5 has a significantly greater depth between the loading edge and the trunk floor: +3.1 in (stated 700%). Practically, this means a deeper loading well in the Q5: more usable volume vertically and a lower cargo floor.
Advantage: bulky/tall items can stand more stably, creating more storage space below the loading edge. Disadvantage: lifting heavy objects over the loading edge is somewhat more demanding, and very low-lying items are less quickly accessible.
Other, smaller differences (under 10%)
The trunk opening of the GLE is only +0.8 in (3%) higher — practically hardly noticeable when loading large items.
The loading edge of the GLE is +1.2 in (4%) higher above the road than in the Q5. This slightly increases the effort required to lift heavy loads into the vehicle; for rolling cases or shopping trolleys, the difference is marginal.
The narrowest width of the trunk is +0.8 in (2%) larger in the GLE; the width of the trunk opening is +1.2 in (3%) larger in the Q5. Both are small differences — the Q5 opens slightly wider, the GLE is minimally wider inside at the narrowest point. These values only become relevant with very bulky, wide loads.
Practical conclusion
If you often transport long items or need maximum length in the cargo space, the GLE is the better choice.
If a lower loading floor with more vertical volume and a somewhat lower loading edge is more important to you (easier sliding in of boxes, more stable standing of tall loads), that speaks in favor of the Q5. Smaller differences in opening height and width only slightly affect everyday usability.