Trunk comparison: Mercedes Benz CLA Shooting Brake vs Mercedes Benz GLC

Key Differences

CLA Shooting Brake has a trunk that is 5.1 in (14%) longer with the first row of seats upright compared to the GLC. The trunk depth (distance from loading edge → trunk floor) is 8.7 in (2100%) greater in the CLA. The width of the trunk opening is 9.1 in (26%) larger in the GLC than in the CLA.

What are the implications for usability?

Longer loading surface (CLA, +14%): The CLA is better suited for longer, flat items (e.g., slats, skis, long boxes) without folding down the rear seat. When the seats are folded, however, the difference is only slight (+1.2 in), making the total cargo space with folded seats roughly comparable.

Greater "depth" in the trunk (CLA, +8.7 in): The significantly larger distance from the loading edge to the trunk floor creates more space in the cargo depth or a lower loading floor.

This allows storing taller or awkwardly stackable items further inside the trunk and can lower the center of gravity during transport. At the same time, a lower loading floor can make storing smaller, heavier items more stable.

Larger opening width (GLC, +26%): The GLC clearly has the advantage for bulky and awkward cargo transport: a wider opening and overall greater usable width at the narrowest point make it easier to load wide items (e.g., furniture parts, wide boxes).

Also, a higher loading opening and slightly greater width at the narrowest point (both smaller differences) support loading bulky, voluminous cargo.

Other practical effects: The loading edge of the CLA is slightly higher (+1.6 in / 6%), which makes lifting heavy loads a bit more strenuous; the GLC offers more convenient handling for large, wide, or tall items due to the larger opening and lower loading edge.

For users who frequently transport long, flat items, the CLA is advantageous; for users with often bulky, wide, or tall cargo, the GLC is more practical.