Trunk comparison: BMW iX1 vs VW Polo

Main Differences

There are four clearly relevant points regarding cargo space: The BMW iX1 offers 9.4 in (+17%) longer cargo length with the seats folded down and 9.4 in (+36%) more length with the first row of seats upright than the VW Polo.

The width of the trunk opening of the iX1 is 6.7 in (+18%) larger, while the VW Polo has a significantly greater trunk depth difference: the distance from the loading edge to the trunk floor is 2.4 in (300%) larger in the Polo than in the iX1. All other mentioned values (opening height +1.2 in / +4%, loading edge height +0.8 in / +3%, narrowest width +0.8 in / +2%) are comparatively small and change practical use only slightly.

What are the implications for usability?

The greater cargo length of the iX1 (both with folded seats and in everyday use with the seat row upright) makes it significantly more practical for long items such as slats, skis, long boxes, or furniture parts.

Combined with the wider trunk opening, wide or bulky parts can be loaded and unloaded more easily because there are fewer lateral restrictions.

The Polo, on the other hand, has a significantly lower trunk floor (the 2.4 in / 300% difference). Practically, this means: cargo sits lower in the vehicle, which can offer advantages in cargo stability and when stacking lower items.

At the same time, lifting heavy, bulky items in and out requires more lifting movement due to the greater floor depth, which can make handling more difficult.

The smaller differences (opening height, loading edge height, narrowest width) are hardly noticeable in practice: the slightly higher trunk opening and the marginally raised loading edge of the iX1 (each only a few centimeters) change everyday usability only marginally.

Conclusion: Those who frequently transport longer or wider items clearly benefit from the BMW iX1 (more cargo length, wider opening).

Those who value a lower loading floor profile and mostly carry lower, compact cargo will find a practical, sometimes more stable storage space in the VW Polo, but pay for it with less length and a narrower opening.