Trunk comparison: Opel Astra Wagon vs Volvo XC40

Key Differences

Trunk dimensions were compared with the front seats upright and with the seats folded down, as well as measurements of the loading edge, opening, and width. The biggest differences are:

• Opel Astra Wagon has a trunk that is 6.3 in (≈18%) longer with the front seats upright than the Volvo XC40.
• The trunk depth (loading edge → trunk floor) is 0.8 in (≈100%) greater in the Opel than in the Volvo.
• The loading edge of the Volvo XC40 is 6.3 in (≈27%) higher above the ground than that of the Opel.

Impact on Usability

The 18% longer cargo area of the Astra with the front seats upright makes it noticeably more practical in everyday use when carrying passengers and additionally transporting longer items (skis, slats, long boxes) or multiple suitcases.

Folding down the seats in the Volvo only provides a minimal advantage (0.8 in difference in favor of the Volvo with seats fully folded), so it is hardly relevant for typical use with seats upright.

The greater trunk depth of the Astra means that cargo sits somewhat deeper and thus more stable in the cargo area. This increases usable vertical cargo capacity and reduces the likelihood of tall items protruding far out.

Combined with the lower loading edge of the Astra, loading and unloading heavy or bulky items is easier—you have to lift less.

The higher loading edge of the Volvo (≈27% higher) makes loading heavy items or lifting boxes and bulky luggage more difficult. A higher loading sill can offer protection against scraping on rough roads but reduces everyday usability when loading regularly.

The width and height of the opening differ only slightly (each in the low single-digit percentage range) and have little practical impact on usability.

Conclusion

For frequent loading of heavy or long items while carrying passengers, the Opel Astra Wagon is practically superior (longer cargo area with seats upright, greater depth, lower loading edge).

The Volvo XC40 offers only a minimal length advantage with seats fully folded and has disadvantages when loading due to the higher loading edge.