Trunk comparison: BMW 3 Series Touring vs Kia Sportage
Key Message
Both models offer similar basic dimensions but differ in two relevant points: the usable cargo space with the rear seats upright and the height of the trunk lip from the road. These differences affect which items are easier to transport and how simple it is to load them.
Highlighted Differences (>10%)
BMW 3 Series Touring: with the first rear seat row upright, the trunk is 3.9 in (11%) longer than the Kia Sportage. This means more usable depth for long items, even if no one is sitting in the back seats.
Kia Sportage: trunk lip is 4.7 in (20%) higher above the road than on the BMW 3 Series Touring. This makes lifting heavy or bulky loads into the trunk more strenuous and less practical, especially for people without aids or with a low back.
Other, Smaller Differences
- BMW has a 2.4 in (4%) longer loading floor with the seats folded down.
- The Kia’s trunk opening is 0.4 in (1%) higher; the depth (trunk lip to ground) on the BMW is 0.4 in (0%) greater — both hardly noticeable in everyday use.
- Kia is 3.5 in (9%) wider at the narrowest point and the opening is 2 in (5%) wider than the BMW — advantageous for wide items but below the 10% threshold.
Implications for Usability
- Long item transport: The BMW is better suited if you regularly need to carry long, slender items (e.g., skis, slats, longer boxes) with the rear seats upright because the usable depth with the seat up is significantly greater.
- Lifting and loading: The lower trunk lip of the BMW makes loading and unloading heavy or bulky loads easier. The higher trunk lip of the Kia makes frequent lifting more tiring and can pose limitations without aids.
- Wide and bulky parts: The Kia offers more width at the narrowest point and at the opening, making very wide items easier to fit inside. For wide, flat loads, the Kia can be more practical.
- Everyday practicality: For frequent loading of heavy groceries, strollers, or furniture, the lower trunk lip of the BMW is advantageous. If you occasionally transport wide loads or want to benefit from the SUV body style, the Kia is advantageous in terms of width.
Conclusion
Choose the BMW 3 Series Touring if longer items and a low trunk lip for convenient everyday loading are important. Choose the Kia Sportage if you more often rely on extra width and a larger opening, even if lifting is more strenuous due to the higher trunk lip.