Trunk comparison: BMW 5 Series Touring vs BMW X4

Key Differences

The most notable differences concern the loading edge and the depth of the trunk: In the BMW X4, the loading edge is +5.1 in (≈20%) higher than in the BMW 5 Series Touring, and the depth between the loading edge and the trunk floor is +3.1 in (≈700%) greater in the X4. Adding these two values together, the trunk floor of the X4 is thus approximately 2 in higher above the ground (5.1 in − 3.1 in = 2 in).

All other reported differences (length with/without folded seats, width at the narrowest point, widths of the opening) are below the 10% mark and are therefore significantly smaller.

Implications for Practical Usability

The higher loading edge of the X4 makes lifting heavy or bulky items in and out more strenuous: heavy suitcases, furniture parts, or full shopping bags must be lifted higher, lifted over the threshold, and possibly lowered deeper into the interior.

For users with limited mobility or frequent loading of heavy items, this is noticeably less comfortable than in the 5 Series Touring with its lower loading edge.

The significantly greater depth between the loading edge and the trunk floor in the X4 creates a pronounced step after overcoming the loading edge.

This has two effects: On one hand, the cargo sits further "below" the threshold, which can be advantageous when securing luggage; on the other hand, inserting and removing flat or short items is more difficult because you have to reach deeper into the trunk and there is less flat surface directly at the opening.

In the 5 Series Touring, the combination of the lower loading edge plus slightly greater usable width (at the narrowest point +2.8 in) and the somewhat greater overall length with folded seats results in a generally more accessible and better usable cargo space for wide or bulky items.

This is especially practical for regularly changing, bulky, or heavy loads (e.g., furniture, large suitcases, shopping trips).

Conclusion: Those who frequently load and unload heavy or bulky items or value the easiest possible loading benefit more from the BMW 5 Series Touring.

The BMW X4 offers a different usage characteristic due to its higher loading edge and deeper cargo recess (more "boxy" feel and lower-lying cargo), but is less comfortable for manual loading.