Trunk comparison: BMW 3 Series Touring vs VW Polo

Key Differences

The BMW 3 Series Touring offers significantly more length in the trunk: with the rear seats folded down, it is +14.6 in (27%) longer, and with the first row of seats upright even +13.4 in (52%) longer than the VW Polo. This clearly makes the BMW superior for long items and lots of luggage.

The VW Polo, on the other hand, has a significantly greater depth between the loading edge and the trunk floor: +2.8 in (700%) compared to the BMW. Additionally, the Polo's loading edge is +3.9 in (17%) higher above the ground, which makes lifting cargo more difficult.

Other differences are less than 10% and thus less significant: the height of the BMW's trunk opening is +1.2 in (4%) higher, the narrowest trunk width is +2.8 in (7%) larger in the Polo, and the width of the trunk opening is +3.1 in (9%) larger in the BMW.

What are the practical implications?

Because the BMW offers significantly more loading length, it is better suited for long or bulky items (skis, furniture parts, long boxes) and for larger amounts of luggage on trips. The slightly larger opening height of the BMW also makes it easier to maneuver tall items—though only marginally.

The Polo benefits from the deeper trunk recess: small parts or loose cargo sit lower and more tightly packed, which reduces shifting. At the same time, the higher loading edge makes lifting heavy items onto the cargo floor level more strenuous.

For frequent loading of heavy or bulky items, the Polo is therefore less practical, but for small, securely stowed shopping or everyday transport tasks, it remains usable.

In summary: Those who regularly transport long or many items will find the BMW 3 Series Touring the more practical choice. Those who mostly carry smaller loads that can be safely stored in the footwell and occasional short trips can manage with the Polo but must accept the higher loading edge and deeper cargo area.