Trunk comparison: Renault Austral vs Durchschnitt Subcompact

Key Differences

The Renault Austral offers significantly more length in cargo volume: with the seats folded down, the trunk is about 25% longer (≈+12.6 in), and with the first row upright, even about 37% more length (≈+9.1 in) than the average subcompact.

Additionally, the width of the trunk opening on the Austral is about 23% larger (≈+8.3 in), which makes loading wider items easier.

In contrast, the average subcompact has a roughly 11% higher trunk opening (≈+3.1 in) as well as a significantly greater trunk depth between the loading edge and floor (≈+4.3 in, ≈138%).

What Impact Do These Differences Have on Usability?

The greater length of the Austral (both with folded seats and with the first row upright) makes it more practical for long items such as slats, skis, furniture parts, or longer boxes — these can usually be transported without angled positioning or multiple rearrangements.

The significantly larger width of the opening simplifies loading bulky or wide cargo because less maneuvering is needed.

The average subcompact scores in the vertical dimension: the higher opening and greater depth mean more usable height and volume vertically.

This is advantageous when frequently transporting tall or sack-like cargo (e.g., plants, crates, bulky boxes that need to stand upright). The greater depth also allows for placing items deeper inside, which helps when stacking high.

Smaller, less highlighted differences also affect practical use: The loading edge of the Austral is slightly higher (+2 in / 7%), which makes lifting heavy items a bit more strenuous, and the narrowest width in the trunk differs very little (+0.4 in).

Conclusion: Those who often load long or wide items clearly benefit from the Renault Austral. Those who mainly need tall, upright, or highly stackable cargo are better served by the average subcompact.