Trunk comparison: Volvo XC40 vs VW Golf Wagon
Key Differences (highlighted: >10%)
The VW Golf Wagon offers a trunk that is 11% longer with the seats folded down (plus 7.5 in) compared to the Volvo XC40. With the first row of seats upright, the Golf Wagon is even 20% longer (plus 7.1 in). The depth of the trunk (loading edge to trunk floor) is significantly greater in the Golf Wagon: plus 4.3 in (figures: 1000 %).
On the other hand, the loading edge of the Volvo XC40 is 23% higher above the ground (plus 5.5 in), which raises the loading edge considerably.
The widths at the narrowest point are identical; the trunk opening of the Volvo is slightly wider (+2.4 in / 6%) and the opening height of the Golf is slightly greater (+2 in / 7%), these two differences are below the 10% mark and are not highlighted here.
Impact on Usability
Practically, this means: The Golf Wagon is clearly advantageous in overall length and cargo area for long or bulky items (e.g., furniture parts, skis, long boxes) both with folded seats and in everyday use with seats upright.
The significantly greater depth from the loading edge area to the trunk floor in the Golf creates more usable volume downward and allows placing taller or bulkier items further back.
The lower loading area of the Golf (because the loading edge in the Volvo is 5.5 in higher) makes loading heavy items easier — less effort when lifting. However, the greater trunk depth can mean that items placed far back are harder to reach and smaller items are more likely to get "lost."
The Volvo XC40 scores with a slightly wider opening (+2.4 in), which makes sliding wider but not very long parts easier. However, its trunk is shorter and the loading edge significantly higher, making lifting heavy loads more laborious and providing less space for long items.
In short: Those who frequently transport long or bulky cargo and value a lower loading edge will find the VW Golf Wagon the more practical solution.
Those who occasionally want to maneuver wider items through the opening and prefer a higher vehicle will find advantages in the Volvo XC40 — with less cargo length and higher effort when loading.