Trunk comparison: BMW 3 Series Touring vs Ford S-MAX

Key Differences

The Ford S‑Max offers significantly more cargo length: +9.1 in (13%) with seats folded down and +4.7 in (12%) with the first row upright compared to the BMW 3 Series Touring. The trunk opening of the S‑Max is considerably higher: +8.3 in (29%).

Additionally, the trunk floor relative to the loading edge in the S‑Max is 0.8 in (200%) lower than in the BMW.

Smaller differences under 10% include the narrowest point in the trunk (+3.1 in/8% for the S‑Max), the width of the opening (+2.4 in/6% for the S‑Max), and the loading edge height (+1.2 in/5% in favor of the BMW).

Implications for Usability

The greater cargo length of the S‑Max (over 10% on both sides) makes it better suited for long items such as skis, furniture parts, slatted frames, or longer moving goods.

With seats folded down, significantly more length can be accommodated; with the seat row upright, more usable space remains for long but flat cargo.

The higher trunk opening of the S‑Max simplifies loading bulky or tall items (e.g., larger boxes, strollers, or furniture). Together with the lower trunk floor (greater distance from loading edge to ground), upright or bulky items can be more easily accommodated without hitting the top.

The slightly lower loading edge of the S‑Max (BMW +1.2 in) slightly reduces lifting effort when loading, which is advantageous for heavy loads. The marginally greater width of the S‑Max (under 10%) only marginally improves handling of bulky cargo; in narrow situations, the overall space requirement remains similar.

Conclusion: Those who regularly transport long or tall items clearly benefit from the Ford S‑Max. For users who mainly travel with moderately sized luggage and prefer a sportier body style or driving dynamics, the BMW 3 Series Touring remains a compact alternative with only minor disadvantages in volume.