Trunk comparison: VW Passat Wagon vs VW Polo

Key Differences
The VW Passat Wagon offers significantly more cargo space: with the seats folded down, its trunk is 24.8 in (46%) longer than the VW Polo's, and with the first row of seats upright, it is even 18.5 in (71%) longer.
The trunk opening of the Passat is also 3.9 in (14%) higher and the opening width is 5.1 in (14%) wider than the Polo's. The specified depth (loading edge to trunk floor) is 0.4 in (13%) greater in the Passat — but only 0.4 in in absolute terms.
Impact on Usability
These differences make the Passat Wagon more capable for transporting large and bulky items: the significantly greater length (especially with the rear seat upright) allows for longer loads without folding down the front seats, the wider opening makes it easier to load wider items, and the higher opening provides more vertical space for tall cargo.
Practically, this means furniture, longer building materials, or multiple suitcases can be accommodated more easily and flexibly in the Passat.
The 0.4 in greater depth of the Passat is noticeable in percentage terms but has little practical impact.
The Polo has a 0.4 in larger interior cross-section (1%) at its narrowest point and a 2.4 in higher loading edge (9%), which results in minimal differences: the Polo remains more compact and maneuverable in the city, and the slightly higher loading edge may make lifting heavy cargo marginally more difficult, but this is not a major disadvantage.
Conclusion: Those who regularly transport long or wide loads will benefit significantly from the Passat Wagon. For everyday city use with occasional luggage transport, the Polo is sufficient and more space-saving.