Trunk comparison: BMW 5 Series Touring vs VW T-Roc

Key Differences (only >10% highlighted)
The BMW 5 Series Touring offers a cargo area that is +16.5 in (28%) longer with the rear seats folded down than the VW T‑Roc, and with the first row of seats upright, even a +12.2 in (40%) longer loading length.
On the other hand, the VW T‑Roc has a significantly higher trunk opening (+6.3 in / 23%) and a greater depth from the loading edge to the trunk floor (+8.7 in / 2100%) as well as a higher loading edge above the road (+4.3 in / 17%).
What impact do these differences have on usability?
The longer cargo area in the BMW clearly makes it superior for transporting long items (e.g., skis, slats, furniture parts). If long or bulky, flat items are frequently transported, the BMW is more practical because these fit without needing to be loaded at an angle or stored in a complicated way.
The VW T‑Roc, on the other hand, offers advantages for bulky or tall loads: the higher trunk opening and greater depth allow for loading taller or upright boxes and bulky cargo that require more vertical space. The larger depth dimension increases the usable volume in the vertical direction.
At the same time, the higher loading edge in the T‑Roc (+4.3 in) makes lifting heavy loads into the trunk more difficult – loading heavy boxes or furniture requires more effort or aids.
The greater depth can also cause smaller items to lie further back and be harder to reach. The BMW, with its lower loading edge, is more comfortable when frequently lifting heavy items.
Conclusion: For long, flat, or frequently loaded heavy items, the BMW 5 Series Touring is the better choice. For bulky, tall, or voluminous loads requiring more interior height and greater vertical capacity, the VW T‑Roc is more advantageous – but at the cost of higher effort when loading.