For families and individuals prioritizing passenger comfort and easy access, SUVs with captain chairs in the second row are an ideal choice. These individual seats offer a premium seating experience comparable to the front row, significantly enhancing comfort, especially on long journeys. Beyond comfort, captain chairs improve accessibility to the third row, making them a practical feature for larger SUVs. Compared to traditional bench seats, second-row captain chairs often boast superior cushioning, dedicated armrests, and more personal space.
This guide, curated by the experts at cardiagnosticnearme.com, lists the best SUVs available in the market that offer second-row captain chairs, either as standard or optional. Our selection includes both luxury and non-luxury models, evaluated not only for seating comfort but also for overall performance, reliability, value, and safety.
To provide a comprehensive and unbiased ranking, we utilize the BuzzScore system, which rates vehicles against their direct competitors. While SUVs on this list may have similar scores, they might not directly compete in the same segment. Learn more about the BuzzScore rating system here. This list is regularly updated to reflect the latest BuzzScores and vehicle information.
1. Acura MDX: A Blend of Luxury and Practicality
Front quarter view of 2025 Acura MDX driving
The 2025 Acura MDX stands out as a spacious and versatile SUV with captain chairs. Across its six trim levels, the MDX features Acura’s innovative multi-functional second row, equipped with a removable middle seat. This design allows for flexible seating configurations and improved access to the third row, catering to both passenger comfort and practicality. Starting at an MSRP of $51,200 for the front-wheel-drive base model and $53,400 for all-wheel drive, the MDX offers a compelling value proposition in the luxury SUV segment.
Most MDX models are powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience. Inside, the MDX prioritizes passenger space. Second-row occupants, regardless of the middle seat configuration, enjoy a generous 38.5 inches of legroom and 38.1 inches of headroom. While the third row is more compact with 29.1 inches of legroom and 36.2 inches of headroom, it’s typical for the class and suitable for children or shorter adults.
“The sports seats are pure Acura – they feel thick, supportive, and comfortable with plenty of adjustment in the Type S. The second row is a pleasant place to be, and with plenty of headroom and legroom for a couple of large adults.” – Ian Wright, CarBuzz
2025 Acura MDX Type S side view on road
Related: Driven: 2025 Acura MDX Type S Is The Complete Package
2. Lincoln Aviator: American Luxury with Powerful Performance
Lincoln Aviator front exterior
The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, scoring an impressive 8.6 out of 10, is a stylish and modern American luxury SUV that offers captain chairs. Available in three trims – Premiere, Reserve, and Black Label – the Aviator combines sophisticated design with potent performance. The base Premiere model starts at $57,095, positioning it competitively within the luxury SUV market.
For the 2025 model year, the Aviator features a sole powertrain option: a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing a robust 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine ensures ample power for confident acceleration and a refined driving experience. The Aviator’s interior can accommodate up to seven passengers. Second-row passengers benefit from 39 inches of legroom and 39.7 inches of headroom, while third-row occupants have 29.2 inches of legroom and 36.9 inches of headroom. The Lincoln Aviator delivers a powerful, quiet, and comfortable ride, characteristic of a true luxury SUV.
3. Kia Sorento Hybrid: Efficient and Family-Friendly
Kia Sorento Hybrid front quarter view
The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid is a compelling choice for families seeking an efficient and spacious SUV with captain chairs. As part of Kia’s expanding hybrid SUV lineup, the Sorento Hybrid provides a comfortable and roomy interior, along with impressive fuel economy. Available in EX and SX Prestige trims, starting at $38,690 and $46,890 respectively, the Sorento Hybrid offers accessible pricing in the hybrid SUV segment.
Both trims are powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, generating a combined output of 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid system delivers a balance of performance and efficiency, making it ideal for daily driving and family trips. Inside the Sorento Hybrid, second-row passengers enjoy a generous 40.7 inches of legroom, while third-row passengers have 29.6 inches. Headroom is also ample, with 37.9 inches in the second row and 36.8 inches in the third row.
“Those chairs are very comfortable at least, with plenty of storage space behind them. Getting into the third row is easy, with a single button push sliding the captain’s chairs far forward.” – Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz
4. Buick Enclave: Spacious and Refined Family SUV
2025 Buick Enclave ST front view
The 2025 Buick Enclave is a standout midsize SUV with second-row captain chairs, perfect for families. Praised as a “fabulous family car,” the Enclave is available in Preferred, Sport Touring, and Avenir trims, with the base Preferred trim starting at $45,000. The Enclave offers a blend of space, comfort, and Buick’s signature refinement.
All Enclave trims are powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. The Enclave features second-row captain chairs and a third-row bench, accommodating up to seven passengers. Second-row passengers enjoy a class-leading 41.46 inches of legroom and 39.96 inches of headroom. Third-row passengers also get respectable space with 32.13 inches of legroom and 38.27 inches of headroom.
“The Enclave is possibly our favorite of GM’s three-row crossovers, but it’s best enjoyed in the most expensive trim level.” – Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz
2025 Buick Enclave side view on road
Related: 2025 Buick Enclave First Drive Review: An Elevated Family-Hauler
5. Ford Explorer: Versatile and Feature-Rich SUV
2025 Ford Explorer front quarter view
The 2025 Ford Explorer is a highly versatile SUV offering a range of configurations and features, including available second-row captain chairs. Whether you need to transport a large family, haul cargo, or simply desire a commanding presence on the road, the Explorer delivers. Available in four trims, starting at $39,755 for the Activ trim and reaching $54,270 for the Explorer ST, the Explorer caters to a broad spectrum of buyers.
Most Explorer trims are powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The sporty ST trim boasts a more powerful engine. Second-row captain chairs are standard on the Activ, ST, and Platinum trims and optional on the ST-Line. The Explorer offers generous passenger space, with 39 inches of legroom and 40.5 inches of headroom in the second row, and 32.2 inches of legroom and 38.9 inches of headroom in the third row, making it one of the SUVs with third-row seats you can actually use.
“If you really need seating for seven, then a second-row bench is the way to go, otherwise we prefer the captain’s chairs. They’re more comfortable for adults by far, and they put a little distance between the kids to avoid squabbles. It’s also better for third row access.” – Nicole Wakelin, CarBuzz
2025 Ford Explorer side view on road
Related: 2025 Ford Explorer First Drive Review: More Premium, More Tech, More Value
6. Nissan Armada: Redesigned Full-Size Powerhouse
2025 Nissan Armada front view
The 2025 Nissan Armada has undergone a complete redesign, emerging as a more compelling full-size SUV with available second-row captain chairs. With four trims and an additional off-road focused Pro-4X trim, the Armada starts at $56,520 for the SV trim. The Armada offers substantial size, power, and capability.
All Armada trims are powered by a potent 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides impressive performance for a large SUV. While typically an eight-seat SUV, second-row captain chairs are available on all Armada trims except the SV and Pro-4X, reducing seating to seven. Second-row passengers enjoy 39.2 inches of legroom, and third-row passengers have 32.9 inches.
7. Volvo XC90: Scandinavian Luxury and Safety
The 2025 Volvo XC90 embodies Scandinavian luxury and safety, offering available second-row captain chairs to enhance passenger comfort. Standard with seven seats, the XC90 can be configured with captain chairs, reducing seating to six. The base XC90 starts at $58,450 and offers a range of powertrain options.
The base XC90 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 247 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Other powertrain options include more powerful turbocharged and hybrid versions. Regardless of seating configuration, second-row passengers get 37 inches of legroom and 38.5 inches of headroom. Third-row passengers have 31.9 inches of legroom and 36.3 inches of headroom.
“Fundamentally, the cabin of the XC90 is unchanged in that it still seats seven by default (optional second-row captain’s chairs reduce this to six). The first and second rows have more than enough space for adults to get comfortable.” – Roger Biermann, Managing Editor, CarBuzz
8. Cadillac Escalade-V: Performance Luxury SUV
2025 Cadillac Escalade-V front quarter view
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade-V is an audacious choice in the SUV segment, combining high-performance with luxurious passenger space and available captain chairs. For those seeking exhilarating power in a family-sized SUV, the Escalade-V delivers. Starting at a premium price of $159,995, the Escalade-V is equipped with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine producing a staggering 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque.
Second-row captain chairs are available with the Executive Second Row Seating Package, an additional $7,500 option. The Escalade-V provides generous interior dimensions, with 41.7 inches of legroom and 37.5 inches of headroom in the second row, and 34.9 inches of legroom and 38.2 inches of headroom in the third row.
9. Cadillac Escalade: Iconic Luxury and Space
2025 Cadillac Escalade front quarter view
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade continues its legacy as an iconic luxury SUV, offering available second-row captain chairs for enhanced passenger comfort. While not as performance-focused as the Escalade-V, the standard Escalade provides comparable interior space and luxury features. Starting at $87,595, the Escalade is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.
Similar to the Escalade-V, captain chairs are available with the Executive Second Row Seating Package for an additional $7,500, which includes a center console and entertainment tablets. The Escalade offers ample passenger room, with 41.7 inches of legroom and 38.9 inches of headroom in the second row, and 34.9 inches of legroom and 38.2 inches of headroom in the third row.
10. Cadillac Escalade IQ: Electric Luxury Redefined
Cadillac Escalade IQ front quarter view
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ represents the future of luxury SUVs, an all-electric model with available second-row captain chairs and cutting-edge technology. As Cadillac’s foray into the electric SUV segment, the Escalade IQ combines opulent features with impressive performance and range. Starting at $127,700, the Escalade IQ is powered by dual electric motors producing up to 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque in “Velocity Max” mode, with an estimated range of 460 miles.
The Escalade IQ’s interior echoes the luxury of its gasoline counterparts, featuring a massive 55-inch digital display and premium materials throughout. Second-row captain chairs are available with the Executive Seating package ($7,500), offering 16-way power heated and ventilated seats with lumbar massage, creating a truly first-class experience.
Tesla Model X Plaid interior second row
Related: Best 6-Seater SUVs Of 2025
Captain Chairs in SUVs: Pros and Cons
Choosing an SUV with captain chairs involves weighing the advantages and disadvantages to determine if this seating configuration aligns with your needs.
Pros of Captain Chairs in SUVs:
- Superior Comfort: Captain chairs provide individual seating with more personal space, armrests, and often enhanced cushioning, resulting in a more comfortable experience, especially for adults.
- Increased Second-Row Space: By eliminating the middle seat, captain chairs can create a more open and airy second-row, allowing passengers to stretch out and relax.
- Easier Third-Row Access: The gap between captain chairs simplifies access to the third row, making it easier for passengers to enter and exit, particularly in larger SUVs.
- Potential for Added Storage: Some SUVs with captain chairs offer a center console between the seats, providing additional storage and convenience for second-row passengers.
Cons of Captain Chairs in SUVs:
- Reduced Seating Capacity: Captain chairs typically reduce the overall seating capacity of an SUV, often limiting it to six or seven passengers compared to bench seat models that can accommodate seven or eight.
- Higher Trim Levels or Luxury Models: Captain chairs are frequently found in higher trim levels or luxury SUVs, potentially increasing the vehicle’s price.
2025 Chevrolet Tahoe front quarter view
Related: SUVs With The Most Cargo Space For 2025
Captain Chairs vs. Bucket Seats: Understanding the Difference
While often used interchangeably in the context of SUVs, captain chairs and bucket seats are essentially the same in terms of their individual, supportive design. The term “captain chairs” is generally used to describe bucket-style seats in the second row of SUVs, emphasizing the enhanced comfort and more luxurious feel compared to standard bucket seats found in other vehicle types. SUVs marketed as having “bucket seats” in the rear often highlight a more upscale or sporty interior.
What is the Best SUV with Captain Chairs?
Determining the “best” SUV with captain chairs is subjective and depends on individual needs and priorities. However, the Cadillac Escalade consistently ranks highly for in-cabin luxury and passenger comfort. Its spacious interior, advanced infotainment system, abundant safety features, and premium materials make it a top contender for those seeking ultimate comfort for all passengers. While the Volvo XC90 may have a higher overall BuzzScore when considering the entire vehicle, the Escalade excels in providing a supremely comfortable three-row seating experience.
Affordable SUVs with Captain Chairs: Are They Available?
Yes, you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy the benefits of captain chairs. The Kia Sorento Hybrid demonstrates that affordable options exist, offering this sought-after feature for under $40,000. This makes captain chairs accessible to a wider range of buyers seeking enhanced second-row comfort without breaking the bank.
Sources: Lincoln, Acura, Kia, Buick, Ford, Nissan, Volvo, Cadillac
