Trunk comparison: Ford Focus vs Mercedes Benz CLA Shooting Brake

Key Differences

The Mercedes‑Benz CLA Shooting Brake offers significantly more cargo length: with the seats folded down, the trunk is 9.1 in (15%) longer, and with the front seats upright, it is 11.4 in (38%) longer than the Ford Focus. The depth of the trunk (loading edge to floor) is 1.6 in (22%) greater in the CLA Shooting Brake.

In contrast, the Ford Focus has a trunk opening height that is 3.5 in (13%) larger, and the trunk opening width is 5.1 in (15%) wider than the CLA. Smaller differences: the loading edge of the CLA is 2.4 in (9%) higher above the ground, and the narrowest trunk width is only 1.6 in (4%) larger in the CLA.

Impact on Usability

Due to the greater cargo length and depth, the CLA Shooting Brake is better suited for long or bulky items (e.g., slats, skis, long boxes, or flat furniture parts) — even when the front seats are in the normal position. The greater depth makes it easier to store taller or thicker cargo behind the loading edge.

The Ford Focus, on the other hand, offers advantages for easily loading bulky or tall items: the higher trunk opening (+3.5 in) and wider opening (+5.1 in) provide more vertical and lateral space when lifting large boxes or furniture pieces inside.

Additionally, the lower loading edge height of the Focus makes lifting heavy items into the trunk somewhat easier.

Conclusion: Those who mainly transport long or deep cargo benefit from the CLA Shooting Brake. Those who frequently load wide, tall, or bulky items or value easier access and a lower loading edge will find advantages in everyday use with the Ford Focus.