Trunk comparison: VW Tiguan vs Durchschnitt Wagon

Key Differences

The average wagon offers a +4.7 in (≈14%) longer cargo space with the first row of seats upright compared to the VW Tiguan. Additionally, the depth of the trunk (loading edge to trunk floor) is +1.2 in (≈300%) greater in the average wagon.

However, the VW Tiguan's loading edge is +4.3 in (≈17%) higher above the ground than the average wagon.

Small differences under 10% include: folded-down cargo volume +0.4 in (1%) in favor of the wagon, trunk opening height +2 in (7%) in favor of the wagon, narrowest trunk width +1.2 in (3%) in favor of the wagon, and trunk opening width +2 in (5%) in favor of the Tiguan.

Implications for Usability

The approximately 14% longer loading length with the first row upright makes the wagon noticeably more practical when regularly transporting long items without folding seats down (e.g., skis, slats, long boxes).

The significantly greater depth of the wagon (relatively much higher) increases the usable interior space immediately behind the loading edge and allows better storage of taller or bulky items near the opening; at the same time, a deeper trunk floor can make reaching items far back somewhat more difficult.

The approximately 17% higher loading edge of the Tiguan means more effort is required in practice when lifting heavy loads into the trunk—the loading and unloading of bulky, heavy items is therefore more strenuous than in the wagon.

An advantage of the slightly wider opening width of the Tiguan (small difference) is that wide items fit more easily through the opening; the other small differences (a few centimeters in volume and opening height) have limited impact on everyday use.

Conclusion

Those who frequently transport long items or prefer lower/lighter loading edges benefit more from the wagon.

Those who accept a somewhat wider opening and the stepped, higher cargo space of the SUV-like Tiguan (e.g., due to higher ground clearance) find practical advantages in the Tiguan—however, for heavy or more frequent loading, the wagon is often the more practical choice.