Trunk comparison: Mercedes Benz CLA Shooting Brake vs Volvo XC60
Key Differences
When all seats are folded down, the length and total length of the trunk space are the same for both models. With the rear seats upright, the trunk of the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake is 3.9 in (10%) longer than that of the Volvo XC60 (a relevant but nominally less than 10% advantage).
The depth of the trunk (distance from loading edge → trunk floor) is significantly greater in the CLA Shooting Brake: +8.7 in (≈2100%). This creates a noticeably deeper cargo area compared to the XC60.
The width of the trunk opening is significantly larger in the Volvo XC60: +9.8 in (29%). This makes loading wider or bulkier items much easier in the XC60.
Impact on Usability
The significantly greater trunk depth in the CLA Shooting Brake allows items to be recessed into a deeper loading well. This is practical for stacked suitcases, sports equipment, or bulky cargo that should fit below the loading edge.
At the same time, a very deep load floor can make lifting heavy items over the loading edge more difficult and loading from waist height less convenient.
The considerably wider trunk opening of the Volvo XC60 facilitates loading wide, bulky, or irregularly shaped cargo (e.g., strollers, furniture parts, wide boxes). Wide items can often be loaded in the XC60 without folding down the seats.
Other, smaller differences also affect practical use: The loading edge of the CLA is about 1.2 in higher than that of the XC60, which slightly complicates lifting, while the trunk opening of the XC60 is about 1.2 in higher, providing a bit more vertical clearance.
The narrowest width inside the trunk is about 2.4 in larger in the XC60, helping with wider packages – though the effect is moderate.
Practical Conclusion
If you frequently transport wide or bulky items, the Volvo XC60 is the more practical choice due to its significantly larger opening.
If you need more space in a deeper loading well—for stacked suitcases or items that should fit under the loading edge—the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake offers the larger practical interior space but requires somewhat more strength and physical effort when loading.