Trunk comparison: Ford S-MAX vs Hyundai Elantra GT Wagon

Biggest Differences (Summary)

The Ford S-Max offers a significantly longer cargo space with the seats folded down than the Hyundai i30 Wagon: +7.9 in or +11%.

The loading opening of the S-Max is significantly higher: +10.2 in or +39% compared to the i30. Additionally, the depth of the trunk (loading edge to trunk floor) is considerably greater in the S-Max: +1.2 in or +200%.

All other measured differences (length with first row upright +2.8 in/7%, loading edge height on the i30 +2 in/9%, width differences +1 to +3.1 in) are small and under 10%.

What This Means in Practice

Because the S-Max offers over 10% more usable length with the seats folded down, it is better suited for long items like furniture parts, slatted frames, or sports equipment when the rear seats are not needed.

The significantly higher loading opening (+39%) makes loading tall items (crates, boxes, tall equipment) easier and improves visibility when loading.

The greater "depth" of the trunk (movable loading edge to floor) means the S-Max’s cargo space either has a deeper storage area or more vertical space behind the loading edge — this increases volume for bulky or stacked cargo and prevents items from sticking out over the loading edge.

The i30 Wagon has a slightly higher loading edge (+2 in / 9%), which makes lifting heavy loads a bit more strenuous; however, this difference remains under 10% and is moderately noticeable in everyday use. Width differences are minimal and hardly affect practicality.

Conclusion: If regularly transporting long or tall cargo and maximizing cargo volume with folded seats is important, the Ford S-Max is the more practical choice.

For everyday use with mostly upright seating, the S-Max’s advantage is smaller (only +2.8 in), so the i30 Wagon can still be sufficient for users without special cargo needs.