Trunk comparison: Ford S-MAX vs VW Tiguan

Key Differences

The Ford S‑Max offers significantly more trunk space: with the seats folded down, it is 10.2 in (15%) longer, and with the first row of seats upright, 9.4 in (27%) longer than the VW Tiguan. The trunk opening on the S‑Max is 7.5 in (26%) higher, making it easier to load tall items.

The trunk depth (from the loading edge to the trunk floor) is 0.8 in (200%) greater on the S‑Max than on the Tiguan. Additionally, the Tiguan's loading edge is 6.7 in (30%) higher above the road than the S‑Max.

Implications for Usability

The longer cargo areas of the S‑Max (especially with the first row upright) make it better suited for long items like boards, long boxes, or bicycles without disassembly. The higher trunk opening of the S‑Max simplifies loading tall or bulky cargo and reduces the risk of hitting the opening.

The greater depth of the S‑Max ensures that cargo sits deeper inside the vehicle, providing more usable interior space at the same external height.

The significantly lower loading edge of the S‑Max makes lifting heavy items into the vehicle much easier compared to the Tiguan, whose higher loading edge makes loading more strenuous.

The slightly greater width in some areas of the Tiguan (only 2–3% difference) is hardly noticeable in everyday use and does not compensate for the clear advantages of the S‑Max in length, opening height, and loading access.

Overall, the S‑Max is more practical for transport-intensive use or frequent loading and unloading of heavy or bulky items; the Tiguan remains sufficient for normal use but does not offer any of the mentioned clear advantages.