Trunk comparison: Mercedes Benz CLA Shooting Brake vs Volvo V90
Biggest Differences (Highlight >10%)
The width of the trunk opening of the Volvo V90 is 10.6 in (31%) larger than that of the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake. This means significantly more space for loading wide items.
The depth of the trunk (distance from loading edge → trunk floor) is 8.7 in (2100%) greater in the Mercedes-CLA. Practically, this means the trunk floor is positioned much lower relative to the loading edge, creating a larger loading wedge below the opening.
The loading edge of the Mercedes-CLA is 5.5 in (23%) higher above the road than that of the Volvo V90. Therefore, when loading, more height must be overcome at the transition from road → loading edge.
Implications for Usability
Wide cargo: The Volvo V90 clearly has the advantage. The significantly wider opening makes loading wide items (furniture, bicycles sideways, bulky boxes) easier. Despite the same minimal interior width, the larger opening of the Volvo allows more room for maneuvering and securing cargo.
Loading edge height vs. trunk depth: In the Mercedes, the combination of a higher loading edge and a significantly deeper trunk floor results in a different practical effect: The loading edge must be overcome at a greater height when loading, which makes lifting heavy items more difficult.
At the same time, the loaded cargo sits deeper in the trunk. This can be advantageous when items need to be transported securely and lower (better center of gravity, more usable interior height below the opening), but it complicates handling during short or heavy lifting tasks over the loading edge.
Length differences (under 10%): Volvo offers slightly more length with folded rear seats (+6.3 in / 9%) and slightly more trunk space with the first row upright (+3.1 in / 8%). These differences exist but are moderate — relevant only for very long items that would exactly fail due to trunk length.
Brief Summary
For frequent loading of wide items and easy handling with a low loading edge, the Volvo V90 is the more practical choice. The Mercedes-CLA offers advantages with a deeper trunk floor for lower-sitting cargo and a more compact center of gravity but requires more lifting effort due to the higher loading edge.