Trunk comparison: BMW 5 Series Touring vs VW Passat Wagon

Comparison of trunk dimensions for the BMW 5 Series Touring and VW Passat Wagon

Key Differences

In a direct comparison, two above-average deviations stand out: The height of the trunk opening of the VW Passat Wagon is 3.5 in (13%) higher than that of the BMW 5 Series Touring, and the depth of the trunk (distance from loading edge to trunk floor) is 3.5 in (800%) greater in the Passat.

These two values are significantly above the 10% mark and are particularly relevant for the practical use of the cargo space.

Impact on Usability

The higher trunk opening of the Passat makes it easier to load tall or bulky items under the roof stack: furniture pieces, large boxes, or suitcases can be transported upright without needing to be heavily tilted.

The increased dimension also reduces the risk of hitting the roof edge and improves visibility when loading.

The significantly greater depth between the loading edge and trunk floor in the Passat means that the cargo volume behind the loading edge effectively offers more vertical space.

Practically, this means items can be placed further back and deeper, which is especially advantageous when transporting bulky but not wide loads.

At the same time, the larger difference to the loading edge creates a bigger step when lifting items over the edge, which can make handling heavy loads somewhat more difficult.

Besides these two notable advantages, the Passat has a slightly longer loading floor: with seats folded down, that's +4.3 in (6%), and with the first row upright +1.6 in (4%) — practically a small advantage for longer cargo, but below the 10% threshold.

The BMW scores points in width: at the narrowest point it is +2.4 in (6%) wider and the width of the opening is +0.4 in (1%) larger.

Additionally, the loading edge of the BMW is +0.8 in (3%) higher above the road, which can make loading heavy items somewhat easier.

These smaller differences have a moderate impact on everyday usability: The Passat is better suited for tall or deep cargo, the BMW for somewhat wider items and for lifting over a slightly lower edge height.