Trunk comparison: Fiat Panda vs Mercedes Benz GLE

Key Differences (highlighted: >10%)

The Mercedes‑Benz GLE offers significantly more usable loading length: with seats folded down, the trunk is 32.7 in (75%) longer and with the first row of seats upright, 20.1 in (94%) longer than the Fiat Panda.

The depth of the trunk (loading edge to trunk floor), however, is much greater in the Fiat Panda: 7.1 in (1700%) higher than in the GLE. Additionally, the loading edge of the GLE sits 3.1 in (12%) higher above the road than the Panda.

What are the practical implications of these differences?

Transporting long or bulky items: The GLE clearly has the advantage here. The significantly longer cargo area (both with folded and upright seats) allows for storing longer furniture pieces, roller shutters, boards, or many travel suitcases.

The slightly wider trunk opening of the GLE also facilitates loading wider cargo.

Ergonomics when loading/unloading: Due to the higher loading edge, lifting heavy items in the GLE is more strenuous; the Fiat Panda has the advantage of a lower loading edge, which makes loading bulky or heavy loads easier.

At the same time, the Panda’s trunk is significantly deeper (much more distance from loading edge to floor), offering more "vertical depth," but this may require additional bending or repositioning when lifting heavy items out.

Practical consequences in everyday use: For regularly loading very long or many items (craftsmen, conversions, longer vacations), the GLE is the better choice.

For frequent lifting of heavy single items or for easy everyday loading (lower lift height, more compact access), the Panda is more ergonomic. Smaller differences such as opening height (+9% in favor of the Panda) or width differences (±~10% or less) only moderately affect usability.