Trunk comparison: BMW iX1 vs Kia Sportage

Key Differences

The most noticeable difference lies in the depth of the trunk (loading edge to trunk floor): the BMW iX1 is +0.8 in or 100% larger here than the Kia Sportage — this is the only difference over 10% and thus the most relevant.

Other differences are significantly smaller: with the seats folded down, the Kia Sportage offers a +2.8 in (4%) longer cargo space, while with the first row upright, the lengths are the same.

The trunk opening of the Kia is +0.4 in (1%) higher. The width at the narrowest point is +1.6 in (4%) larger in the Kia, while the width of the trunk opening is +1.6 in (4%) more favorable in the BMW. The loading edge height of both models is identical.

Impact on Usability

The greater trunk depth in the BMW iX1 directly affects usable volume and handling: for bulky or tall items, more space is available between the loading edge and floor, allowing longer or taller parts to be pushed in deeper — this increases flexibility when transporting irregularly shaped cargo.

At the same time, a greater depth can make lifting heavy items over the loading edge somewhat more difficult because a larger height difference must be overcome.

The slightly longer cargo space of the Kia with folded seats makes it better suited for especially long items (e.g., slats, skis, longer furniture parts), while there is no length advantage with the normal seat configuration.

The slightly larger narrow width in the Kia makes it easier to store narrow luggage along the narrowest point, whereas the +1.6 in wider opening in the BMW helps when loading wide items through the tailgate.

The +0.4 in higher opening of the Kia is practically unnoticeable in everyday use. Overall, the type of cargo decides: for deeper loading or bulky items, the BMW iX1 scores points; for somewhat longer transports with folded seats or narrower luggage configurations, the Kia Sportage can offer advantages.