Trunk comparison: BMW i4 vs VW Passat Wagon

Key Differences (highlighted)

The VW Passat Wagon offers significantly more cargo dimensions: it has 9.8 in (14%) more length with the seats folded down and 5.9 in (15%) more length with the front seats upright than the BMW i4. The trunk opening height of the Passat is 4.7 in (18%) higher, the narrowest width of the cargo area is 5.1 in (15%) larger, and the width of the trunk opening is 4.3 in (12%) wider than in the i4. In contrast, the BMW i4 has a trunk depth (loading edge to trunk floor) that is 0.4 in (11%) greater than the Passat.

Impact on Usability

These differences lead to clearly different practical characteristics: The Passat Wagon is better suited for long and wide loads — folded down, the longer dimensions and the wider/higher opening provide noticeably more room for furniture, long items (e.g., slats, skis, laminate), and wide packages.

The larger narrowest width reduces problems with bulky items that might otherwise get stuck at tight spots. The higher opening also makes it easier to load bulky or tall items.

The BMW i4 scores with a slightly greater floor depth near the loading edge (0.4 in or 11%), which in some cases provides more usable interior height directly behind the loading edge — practical for flat but somewhat taller loads that should lie directly behind the loading edge.

However, this advantage is small in absolute terms and does not compensate for the larger length and width advantages of the Passat.

Note on handling: The loading edge of the i4 is positioned somewhat higher above the road (difference about 2.4 in or 9%), which makes lifting heavy items in somewhat more strenuous; although this point is under 10% and not highlighted, it has practical relevance for frequent loading of heavy cargo.

Conclusion: For users who regularly transport long, wide, or bulky loads (families, craftsmen, moves), the VW Passat Wagon is the more practical choice.

Those who mainly seek passenger transport with occasional luggage needs and value sportier sedan/hatchback shapes can live with the BMW i4 — however, the i4 offers significantly less flexibility when transporting large or bulky items.