Were you using the Bulky Cycle (available on some models)?

Depending on the load size, the cycle time may be longer during water fill when using the Bulky Cycle. The Bulky Cycle uses a series of fills while agitating.  It may appear that there is not enough water to wash a bulky load, but the washer will continue to add water while its sensors monitor the load. 

This process also increases cleaning performance. The benefit in agitating while filling results in improved mechanical action for a wide variety of loads. The Bulky Cycle is recommended for many items (jackets, rugs, comforters, etc.), all of which have different optimal water levels for load motion, depending on load size. Executing agitation during fill improves the washer's ability to reach the optimal wash water level. During the Bulky Cycle, fill will occasionally pause for the washer to provide additional mechanical action at various water levels.

For models with an agitator and Deep Water Wash Option:

Some agitator models have a Deep Water Wash option along with an Auto Sensing option. If your model has this, you can set the Water Level knob to the Deep Water Wash setting, and the washer will fill to the maximum water level.