Trunk comparison: Ford S-MAX vs Skoda Octavia Wagon

Key Differences and Implications for Use

The biggest differences are not in the length or width of the cargo floor, but in the vertical geometry.

Three values are particularly relevant: The height of the Ford S‑Max trunk opening is +5.9 in (≈+19%) larger than that of the Octavia; in the Škoda, the depth from the loading edge to the trunk floor is +2.8 in (≈+233%) greater than in the S‑Max; and the loading edge of the Octavia is +2.8 in (≈+12%) higher above the road than that of the S‑Max.

In practice, this means: The higher opening of the S‑Max makes it easier to load and unload tall or bulky items because more vertical space is available and there is less risk of hitting the roof edge.

The lower loading edge of the S‑Max also reduces the lifting height when loading – this noticeably simplifies loading heavy loads.

In the Octavia, the combination of a higher loading edge and significantly greater depth (trunk floor positioned lower relative to the loading edge) has a different effect: the loading opening itself is lower, the loading edge sits higher above the road, and the floor lies further "down." This can create a feeling of greater interior volume but makes lifting and pulling out heavy items more strenuous because more lifting effort is required.

For frequent loading of heavy packages, strollers, or shopping crates, the Octavia is therefore less comfortable than the S‑Max.

The differences in trunk length (S‑Max +4.7 in with seats folded down / +1.2 in with the first row upright) and in the narrowest width or opening width (each ≈+1.2 in in favor of the S‑Max) are comparatively small (<10%) and result in hardly noticeable differences in usability in most everyday cases.

Conclusion

Those who often load tall or bulky items or value easy handling of heavy loads will benefit more from the Ford S‑Max (higher opening, lower loading edge).

Those who primarily focus on maximum interior volume and for whom lifting is not a major issue can also load the Škoda Octavia Wagon well – however, the loading and unloading comfort is lower.