Trunk comparison: Tesla Model 3 vs Durchschnitt SUV

Key Differences
There are significant differences in cargo volume and trunk shape: The Tesla Model 3 offers a larger loading area lengthwise — with the seats folded down, the trunk is 10.2 in (16%) longer and with the front seats upright, 8.7 in (26%) longer than the average SUV.
The trunk depth (loading edge to trunk floor) is 2.4 in (120%) greater in the Model 3. At the same time, the trunk opening of the average SUV is 9.8 in (48%) higher than that of the Tesla, and the SUV’s loading edge is 3.1 in (12%) higher above the ground than the Model 3’s.
Impact on Usability
These differences lead to clear pros and cons in practice:
- More length in the Tesla (with seats folded and rear bench upright) makes the Model 3 better suited for long, flat items like slats, skis, or furniture parts that need to be loaded lengthwise.
- The greater depth of the Tesla means more storage space below the loading edge and allows for a larger flat cargo volume; this is advantageous for stackable luggage and low-profile loads.
- The lower loading edge of the Tesla makes lifting heavy items into the vehicle easier (less effort), since the SUV’s loading edge is about 3.1 in higher.
- The significantly higher trunk opening on the SUV makes loading tall or bulky items easier — large boxes, plants, or suitcases can be loaded upright, which is limited in the Tesla due to the lower opening.
- Width differences (SUV at narrowest point +3.1 in / opening width +2.4 in) are small (<10%) and have only minor impact in most everyday situations; wider items fit slightly easier through the SUV’s opening.
Summary
The Tesla Model 3 scores with a longer and deeper loading area plus a lower loading edge — advantageous for long or flat loads and ergonomic loading.
The average SUV, on the other hand, has a significantly higher trunk opening and somewhat more width, which facilitates handling tall and bulky items. The choice therefore depends on typical cargo: long/lighter loads ↦ Tesla Model 3; tall/bulky items ↦ SUV.