Trunk comparison: BMW 5 Series Touring vs BMW i4

Key Differences

Four significant differences stand out in the comparison: The BMW 5 Series Touring offers a trunk that is 4.3 in (+11%) longer with the front seats upright than the BMW i4. At its narrowest point, the 5 Series Touring's trunk is 7.5 in (+22%) wider, and the width of the trunk opening is 4.7 in (+13%) larger than that of the i4. In contrast, the BMW i4 has a significantly greater depth between the loading edge and the trunk floor: 3.9 in (+900%) deeper than the 5 Series Touring.

Impact on Usability

The greater widths (both at the narrowest point and at the opening) and the longer loading surface with the front seats upright make the 5 Series Touring considerably more practical for wide or bulky items (furniture parts, larger boxes, bulky luggage).

A wider opening and greater minimum width facilitate loading and unloading and increase the likelihood that bulky cargo fits without wrapping or disassembly.

The deeper trunk floor of the i4, on the other hand, creates more usable vertical space below the loading edge.

This is advantageous for stacked or tall items, for storing bags and boxes that can be better secured in a deeper storage area, and for an overall larger perceived cargo volume despite narrower cross-sections.

Due to the higher loading edge of the i4 (a minor difference), lifting heavy loads can be somewhat more strenuous.

Conclusion: Those who frequently transport wide or bulky loads benefit from the 5 Series Touring (wider opening, larger narrow point, longer loading surface with seats upright).

Those who benefit from additional depth and a lower storage floor (more usable volume below the loading edge) may be better served by the i4 — despite narrower cross-sections.