Trunk comparison: Mercedes Benz GLE vs Durchschnitt Compact SUV
Outstanding Differences (>10%)
The Mercedes‑Benz GLE offers a cargo floor that is +17.7 in (≈30%) longer with the rear seats folded down than an average compact SUV, and with the first row of seats upright, a trunk that is +11 in (≈36%) longer.
The width of the trunk opening is +5.1 in (≈13%) larger on the GLE. Also notable is the different "depth" (loading edge → trunk floor): the average compact SUV has +5.5 in (≈1300%) more distance here than the GLE.
Concrete Effects on Usability
1) More length and wider opening on the GLE: The significantly longer cargo areas (with seats folded and upright) plus the larger opening width make the GLE better suited for long or wide-format loads — such as long furniture parts, skis, ladders, or bulky luggage.
Larger items can be loaded more easily and aligned straight.
2) Higher loading edge and overall higher cargo floor on the GLE: The loading edge of the GLE is +1.2 in above the road, combined with the shallower "depth" of the GLE compared to the compact SUV.
Net effect is that the trunk floor of the GLE sits noticeably higher above the roadway (on the order of ~6.7 in difference). This means heavier items must be lifted higher, loading is physically more demanding, and sliding loads in is less comfortable than in the lower compact SUV.
3) Lower trunk floor in the compact SUV: The greater "depth" measurement in the compact SUV results in a lower cargo floor relative to the road.
For frequent loading and unloading of heavy or bulky items, this is more practical — less lifting effort, better rolling over bulky parts, and often easier stowing of tall loads.
Summary of practical choice: If priority is on length and width of the cargo area (transporting long or wide items, more flexibility with folded seats), the GLE is clearly advantageous.
If, however, heavy or bulky loads are frequently carried that require a low cargo floor and less lifting effort, an average compact SUV is more practical due to its significantly greater "depth" (lower trunk floor).