Trunk comparison: Mercedes Benz GLB vs VW Golf Wagon (Mk5)

Key Differences

Three differences stand out clearly from the data: The VW Golf 5 offers a longer cargo space with the first row of seats upright (+3.9 in / +11% in favor of the Golf).

The Mercedes-Benz GLB, on the other hand, has a significantly higher trunk opening (+5.5 in / +19%), a considerably greater depth between the loading edge and the trunk floor (+2.8 in / +140%), and a higher loading edge above the road (+3.1 in / +13% in favor of the GLB).

Smaller deviations in width and with folded seats (each ≈2 in / 4–5%) are comparatively insignificant and are not highlighted here.

What impact does this have on usability?

The VW Golf 5 is more practical for long items in everyday use with its 11% longer cargo space when the seats are upright (e.g., skis, long boxes, or slats) without folding the seats down.

Those who often transport long, narrow loads and do not want to change the seat configuration clearly have the advantage in the Golf.

The GLB is better suited for bulky or tall cargo: The 19% larger opening height provides more vertical clearance when loading bulky items (e.g., boxes, strollers, or furniture parts with height).

The 140% greater depth from the loading edge to the trunk floor means that cargo sinks deeper into the trunk after overcoming the loading edge — this increases the usable interior volume vertically but can make lifting heavy items more difficult because they must first be lifted over the higher loading edge.

The 13% higher loading edge of the GLB makes loading and unloading heavy luggage more strenuous than in the Golf: heavy suitcases or furniture must be lifted higher.

Combined with the deeper loading floor, this creates an advantage for bulky, tall items (more space) but a disadvantage ergonomically for heavy loads (more lifting effort).

In summary: For longer items with full seating, the Golf is the more practical choice. For taller or bulkier cargo, the GLB offers more interior height and volume but requires more lifting effort when loading and unloading due to the higher loading edge.