Trunk comparison: Ford S-MAX vs Mercedes Benz GLC

Key Differences

The Ford S‑Max offers a trunk that is +9.1 in (13%) longer when the seats are folded down and a cargo space that is +7.5 in (20%) longer with the first row of seats upright compared to the Mercedes‑Benz GLC.

The trunk opening of the S‑Max is +6.7 in (22%) higher, and the trunk depth (loading edge to trunk floor) is +1.2 in (200%) greater.

In contrast, the GLC's loading edge is +5.5 in (25%) higher above the ground. Smaller differences favoring the GLC include the narrowest trunk width being 2.8 in (7%) larger and the trunk opening width being 1.6 in (4%) wider — both under 10% and thus secondary.

Impact on Usability

The S‑Max is clearly optimized for volume and easy loading: the longer loading surfaces (both with folded seats and with the first row upright) and the higher opening facilitate transporting long or tall items (e.g., furniture, skis, long boxes).

The greater trunk depth means more usable interior height and provides space for stackable or bulky cargo.

The significantly lower loading edge of the S‑Max reduces the effort required to lift heavy items into the vehicle and lowers the practical barrier during frequent loading and unloading (strollers, groceries, luggage). Conversely, the higher loading edge of the GLC makes loading heavy or bulky loads more difficult.

The GLC has a slight advantage in width: a bit more space at the narrowest point and a minimally wider opening make it better suited in some cases for wide items that need to be loaded crosswise.

Overall, however, the S‑Max's configuration clearly favors better everyday and payload usability when length, height, and easy loading/unloading are priorities.