Trunk comparison: BMW 5 Series Touring vs BMW X5

Key Differences

The BMW X5 has a significantly higher trunk opening and a noticeably higher loading edge: the opening is 3.9 in (14%) higher, the loading edge is 5.1 in (20%) above the ground.

Other dimensions differ only slightly – the 5 Series Touring offers about 1.6 in (2%) more loading length with the seats folded down and about 2 in (5%) more depth with the first row of seats upright; the width at the narrowest point and at the opening is about 1.2 in (3%) larger on the X5, and the depth from the loading edge to the trunk floor is practically the same (+0.4 in / 0%).

Implications for Usability

The larger differences concern handling when loading and unloading: the higher trunk opening of the X5 makes it easier to load tall or bulky items because more vertical clearance is available.

At the same time, the loading edge that is 5.1 in higher makes lifting heavy items more strenuous and increases the effort when loading and unloading without a ramp or lifting aid.

The 5 Series Touring is more practical for everyday use due to the lower loading edge when regularly handling heavy luggage or loading bulky but relatively flat cargo (e.g., furniture, tools), and its slightly longer loading length helps with very long items.

The slightly greater width of the X5 provides a bit more room for storing wide cargo but is only a minor advantage in practice.

Practical Recommendation

Those who frequently transport heavy or regularly lifted loads benefit from the lower loading edge of the 5 Series Touring. Those who more often load tall or bulky items and accept the higher entry height are better served by the X5.