Trunk comparison: BMW X1 vs BMW X4
Key Differences (highlighted: >10%)
The BMW X4 offers +4.7 in (+13%) more trunk space with the first row upright than the X1. This means more usable length in the trunk without folding the seats – practical for luggage, crates, or longer items in everyday use.
Additionally, the X4 has a significantly greater trunk "depth" (distance from loading edge → trunk floor): +2 in (+167%).
This creates a deeper cargo well and increases the usable volume below the loading edge. Finally, the loading edge of the X4 is +3.1 in (+11%) higher above the road than the X1, which affects accessibility.
Impact on Everyday Usability
The combination of greater trunk length with the rear seat upright and the significantly deeper well in the X4 makes it overall more practical when it comes to pure cargo volume and storing bulky or taller items below the loading edge.
A deeper trunk floor also allows items to be transported somewhat "recessed," so the overall height inside the vehicle appears lower and the cargo can lie more stably.
There are trade-offs: The X4's loading edge being 3.1 in higher increases the effort required to lift heavy items into the vehicle – this mainly affects heavy luggage or crate transport and is noticeably disadvantageous for older people or frequent loading and unloading.
Despite the deeper cargo well, placing large, flat, or long items can be more difficult because they must be lifted over the higher edge.
The X1 scores with smaller but practically relevant advantages: slightly larger opening and pass-through dimensions (opening width +1.6 in, narrow point +0.4 in) and a slightly higher opening height (+0.8 in).
Although these differences are under 10% and thus not as significant as those mentioned above, they make the X1 more accessible for wide or bulky parts and ease lifting due to the lower loading edge.
Conclusion / Recommendation
If the main criterion is maximum usable cargo volume and a deep trunk floor (e.g., frequently bulky, not too heavy loads), the BMW X4 is more advantageous.
If, on the other hand, easy accessibility, less effort when loading and unloading, and somewhat larger opening widths are important (e.g., frequent lifting of heavy items or wide/bulky parts), the BMW X1 is the more practical choice.