According to Statista, 39% of drivers prioritize comfort when shopping for a new or used car. Some are even willing to go over budget for a more comfortable vehicle.
If you think your current car isn’t comfortable enough, you’re probably looking for a new, cozier model. However, the real struggle is finding one that meets your seating requirements and comfort needs simultaneously.
A plush, well-adjusted seat is often the first indicator of a comfortable car. So, choosing a vehicle with the best seating should be your number one priority. SUVs can be a good option for comfort and luxury, and SUVs with captain chairs can enhance the experience even more. A plush, well-adjusted seat is often the first indicator of a comfortable car. So, choosing a vehicle with the best seating should be your number one priority. SUVs can be a good option for comfort and luxury, and SUVs with captain chairs can enhance the experience even more.
Don’t know where to start? Check out our eight best picks for SUVs with captain chairs.
What is a captain’s chair?
A captain chair is a type of seat in the second or third row of SUVs. It replaces the standard three-across bench seat found in most SUVs and minivans.
Captain seats have features similar to a front-row seat—comfortable, individual armrests and better body support. Unlike traditional bench seats, these models don’t have a middle seat in the second row. Passengers can walk into the third row instead of climbing.
Some drivers use that walkthrough to accommodate a full-sized control center for entertainment and storage. Captain chairs can also be tilted, slid, or folded out of the way when trying to access the third row.
Due to the increased interest in family cars, you can find a two-row or three-row SUV with captain’s seats. But in most cases, an SUV with bucket seats only in the front is the norm.
Does a captain seat cost more?
Before investing in an SUV with second-row captain seats, remember you will pay more for less.
In these cars, the second row has only two seats. The middle seat is replaced by a walkway to the third row (if there is one). Even the third row in these models is often too constricting to accommodate three people comfortably.
Captain seats can reduce the SUV’s seat count from eight to seven or even six. For instance, the third row in the Volkswagen Atlas and Jeep Grand Cherokee L can only accommodate two people.
Then, there is the Acura MDX, which includes a removable second-row center seat. If the passengers find it too tight of a fit, they can detach the middle chair.
Even though interest in captain chairs is rising, they’re still an extra cost for most modern three-row SUVs. For instance, you can upgrade your Honda Pilot to the TrailSport trim to get standard captain chairs, which cost $12,000 more than the base trim.
Our selection criteria for SUVs with captain chairs
We wanted our list of SUVs with captain chairs to appeal to everyone: budget-conscious buyers,, and those looking for a luxurious family car.
That’s why we reviewed all kinds of SUVs with captain chairs featuring two or three rows. We used the following selection criteria to find the best SUVs for our list.
Captain seats
First, we ensured our picks have at least one trim level offering standard captain's chairs. Depending on the make and model, these seats are limited to the second row or extend to the third row.
Other comfort features
At EchoPark Automotive, we know that most American drivers are unsatisfied with their car's current comfort levels. That’s why we chose models with other features to ease the driving experience, such as heated seating or PowerFold capabilities.
Price range
Most people can't spend more than 20% of their monthly income on cars. Our list includes affordable car options for people with various financial limits.
8 best SUVs with captain seats
Based on our research and analysis, here’s the list of the top eight SUVs with captain seats, including our top three picks:
- Toyota Highlander: Best used Toyota SUV
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: Best Jeep 4x4
- Ford Explorer: Best SUV for snow
1. Toyota Highlander: Best used Toyota SUV
The Toyota Highlander can be pricey, but EchoPark makes it affordable at around $38,000. There’s a lot to love about this car, from heated seats, panoramic display, and even cooled seats for hotter days.
Two of the Highlander's six trim levels don’t offer captain chairs as standard, but you can get them on demand. The other trims have captain seats in the second row.
Features
Some highlighting features of the Toyota Highlander include:
- Heated captain chairs:The captain chairs in the Highlander are plush, leather-trimmed, heated, and ventilated. You can also adjust their height and use the seat memory function.
- Towing capacity:The Highlander’s 2.4-liter turbo engine packs power with up to a 5,000-lb towing capacity.
- Multi-Terrain Select:For off-road adventures, Highlanders feature Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) with four modes: Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, Snow, and Normal.
- Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD:The TV-AWD offers all-wheel-drive performance. It sends up to 50% of its power to the rear and intelligently redistributes it to the wheel that needs it most.
Trim selections
The Toyota Highlander has six trim selections.
| Features | L | LE | XLE | XSE | Limited | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain seats | None | None | Second row | Second row | Second row | Second row |
| Seat features | - Fabric-trimmed seats - 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat | - Bucket front seats - Eight-way power driver seat - Height-adjustable driver seat - Four-way manual passenger seat adjustment | - SofTex® trimmed seats - 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat - Eight-way power-adjustable front passenger seat | - Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support - Eight-way power passenger seat - Height-adjustable passenger seat - Multi-level heated driver seat | - Leather-trimmed front- and second-row seats - Heated and ventilated front seats - Seat memory function - 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat | - Leather-trimmed seats - Heated and ventilated front seats - Heated second-row captain’s chairs |
| Seats and Rows | Eight seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Engine/Drive Type | 2.4L Four-cylinder engine | 2.4L Four-cylinder engine | 2.4L Four-cylinder engine | 2.4L Four-cylinder engine | 2.4L Four-cylinder engine | 2.4L Four-cylinder engine |
2. Jeep Grand Cherokee: Best Jeep 4x4
We know a brand new Jeep Grand Cherokee may not be realistic for everyone’s budget. You can get a used one from EchoPark at a more affordable rate.
Our team of experts checks all vehicles for 190 points, including the tires, interior, exterior, brakes, and more. So, you can rest assured you’ll get your money’s worth.
Features
Some highlighting features of the Jeep Grand Cherokee include:
- Uconnect infotainment system:The base trim of the Jeep Grand Cherokee includes the Uconnect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and an 8.4-inch touchscreen display. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Safety features: The Grand Cherokee comes with Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Blind-Spot Checking with Rear Cross-Path Detection, and Lane Departure Warnings with Lane Keep Assist.
- Different drive modes: The base Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with a Selec-Terrain traction management system for Snow, Sand/Mud, and Auto.
Trim selections
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has nine trim selections, but only six offer captain chairs. You can also get captain chairs in the third row on demand.
| Features | Laredo | Summit | Trailhawk | Altitude | Overland | Limited |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain seats | Second and third rows | Second and third rows | Second and third rows | Second and third rows | Second and third rows | Second and third rows |
| Seat features | - Eight-way power-adjustable driver seat - Cloth upholstery | - Eight-way power-adjustable driver seat - Cloth upholstery | - Height-adjustable passenger seat - Multi-level heated driver seat - Multi-level heated passenger seat | - Heated front seats and steering wheel - Leather-trimmed seats | - Heated and ventilated front seats -Heated steering wheel and second-row seats | -Ventilated front seats - Cloth upholstery -Heated outboard rear seats |
| Seats and Rows | Five seats Two rows | Six seats Three rows | Six seats Three rows | Six seats Three rows | Six seats Three rows | Six seats Three rows |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Engine/Drive Type | 3.6L V-6 24-V VVT engine | 3.6L V-6 24-V VVT engine | 3.6L V-6 24-V VVT engine | 3.6L V-6 24-V VVT engine | 3.6L V-6 24-V VVT engine | 3.6L V-6 24-V VVT engine |
3. Ford Explorer: Best SUV for snow
If you want comfortable captain seats while navigating snowy terrain, consider getting a used Ford Explorer from EchoPark. All trims come with standard captain seats in the second row. But if you choose the Platinum trim, you can get one in the third row on-demand.
EchoPark offers newer versions of the Explorer Sport and XLT at highly affordable rates, so you won’t miss out on comfortable rides if you’re on a budget.
Features
Some highlighting features of the Ford Explorer include:
- Twin-panel moonroof: The twin-panel moonroof lets the light in so you can enjoy the sun's warmth.
- PowerFold third-row seat:The PowerFold® third-row seat can accommodate up to seven people and folds down for extra cargo space with just a button press.
- Side-wind stabilization: All 2024 Explorer® models come with side-wind stabilization, keeping you steady in gusty winds.
- Active Park Assist 2.0:Active Park Assist 2.0 helps you effortlessly park in tight parallel or perpendicular spots.
Trim selections
The Ford Explorer has five trim selections.
| Features | XLT | Limited | Limited Hybrid | ST | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain seats | Second row | Second row | Second row | Second row | Second row |
| Seat features | PowerFold® - Front heated and ventilated seats | - Heated and ventilated front seats - Heated second-row seats | - Heated and ventilated front seats - Heated second-row seats | - Front row sport bucket seats with unique ST embroidery | - Tri-Diamond perforated leather seating |
| Seats and Rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Engine/Drive Type | 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine | 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine | 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine | 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine | 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine |
4. Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 Touring, available at EchoPark for around an average of $27,000, is the lowest trim level for this SUV. Like the other trim levels, it has standard captain seats in the second row.
However, the Carbon Edition also has captain seats in the third row.
Features
Some highlighting features of the Mazda CX-9 include:
- Second-row retractable sunshades:No more suction cup window shades—second-row passengers can enjoy built-in retractable shades.
- Active Driving Display:The windshield-projected Active Driving Display makes you feel like you're in a fighter jet co*ckpit. It displays Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring and Mazda Radar Cruise Control on the lower windshield so you can keep your eyes on the road.
- Bose 12 speaker system:Mazda's research and development team and BOSE sound engineers designed the Mazda BOSE system for an immersive audio experience.
Trim selections
The Mazda CX-9 has five trim selections.
| Features | Touring | Touring Plus | Carbon Edition | Grand Touring | Signature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain seats | Second row | Second row | Second row and third row | Second row | Second row |
| Seat features | - Leather-trimmed seats - Six-way power-adjustable front passenger seat | - Leather-trimmed seats - Six-way power-adjustable front passenger seat | - Nappa leather-trimmed seats | - Leather-trimmed seats - Six-way power-adjustable front passenger seat | - Nappa leather-trimmed seats with diamond-patterned stitching - Heated steering wheel - Heated and ventilated front seats |
| Seats and Rows | Six seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Six seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Engine/Drive Type | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 Dynamic Pressure Turbo DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder with WT | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 Dynamic Pressure Turbo DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder with WT | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 Dynamic Pressure Turbo DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder with WT | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 Dynamic Pressure Turbo DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder with WT | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 Dynamic Pressure Turbo DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder with WT |
5. Lincoln Navigator
With its twin-turbo premium unleaded V-6 engine, the Lincoln Navigator is the epitome of power and comfort. All of its trim levels come with second-row captain seats as standard, but that’s not all.
The second row also features an entertainment console that can be removed to create a walkway to the third row. EchoPark offers a used Lincoln Navigator for a fraction of the price.
Features
Some highlighting features of the Lincoln Navigator include:
- Lincoln BlueCruise* Technology:This feature lets you drive hands-free on designated sections of highways known as Hands-Free Blue Zones for over 130,000 miles of North American roads.
- SYNC 4 system:The 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen offers hands-free control of vehicle features and smartphone apps. Lincoln Premium Connectivity also offers music streaming, podcasts, news, games, and audiobooks on the go.
- Intelligent adaptive cruise control: This feature adjusts speed, braking, and acceleration, even stopping and resuming in heavy traffic, for a smoother drive.
Trim selections
The Lincoln Navigator has five trim selections.
| Features | Premiere | Reserve | Reserve L | Black Label | Black Label L |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain seats | Second row | Second row | Second row | Second row | Second row |
| Seat features | - Perfect position seats with Active Motion® | - Second-row PowerFold® heated captain chair | - Captain's Chairs with floor console - Can be exchanged for a split bench seat | - Seat memory - Heating and ventilation - Perfect Position front seats with Active Motion® | - Seat memory - Heating and ventilation - Perfect Position front seats with Active Motion® |
| Seats and Rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Engine/Drive Type | Turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine with Auto Start-Stop technology | Turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine with Auto Start-Stop technology | Turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine with Auto Start-Stop technology | Turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine with Auto Start-Stop technology | Turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine with Auto Start-Stop technology |
6. Honda Pilot
Featuring eight seats, even with the captain chair, the Honda Pilot is the perfect family SUV. The second row has a removable middle seat, which you can get on demand. It can accommodate seven or eight people, depending on the configuration.
The best part? You can get a used Honda Pilot—the only trim with the removable seat feature—while staying within your budget.
Features
Some highlighting features of the Honda Pilot include:
- Trail Torque Logic:The Pilot TrailSport features Trail Torque Logic, engine and fuel tank skid plates, and an extra inch of ground clearance for improved off-road capability.
- Maintenance Minder:You’ll receive Maintenance Minder™ alerts when it's time for service. In fact, you can schedule your vehicle services through the HondaLink® smartphone app.
- Honda Sensing:Every trim comes with a comprehensive suite of Honda Sensing® safety and driving assistance features.
Trim selections
The Honda Pilot has four trim selections.
| Features | Sport | EX-L | Trailsport | Touring |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain seats | None | On-demand | Second row | None |
| Seat features | - 60/40 flat-folding third-row seat - Driver's seat and mirror position memory - Heated seats | - On-demand removable second-row middle seat - Driver's seat and mirror position memory - Heated seats | - 60/40 flat-folding third-row seat - TrailSport Leatherette with orange stitch - Heated second-row captain's chairs | - Ventilated front seats - On-demand removable second-row middle seat - 60/40 flat-folding third-row seat |
| Seats and Rows | Eight seats Three rows | Eight seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Eight seats Three rows |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Engine/Drive Type | DOHC 3.5-liter V6 engine | DOHC 3.5-liter V6 engine | DOHC 3.5-liter V6 engine | DOHC 3.5-liter V6 engine |
7. Volkswagen Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas is a fairly new SUV, so it features captain seats in all trims as standard. But its seat features are truly premium: heating and ventilation, split-folding, way-power seats, and more.
You can even get a used Volkswagen Atlas from EchoPark for only around $24,000. If the spacious seven-seat configuration doesn’t impress you, the Intercooled turbo premium unleaded I-4 2.0 L engine definitely will.
Features
Some highlighting features of the Volkswagen Atlas include:
- 4MOTION® with active control: In the 2024 models, you can change 4MOTION® all-wheel-drive modes directly from the center touchscreen—modern and convenient.
- VW Digital co*ckpit Pro:It offers customizable high-res displays and a full-screen navigation option for a clearer view of your route.
- Tire pressure monitoring system:The TPMS alerts you to pressure loss to maintain efficiency and safety.
Trim selections
The Volkswagen Atlas has four trim selections.
| Features | SE | SEL | SEL Premium | Peak Edition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain seats | Second row | Second row | Second row | Second row |
| Seat features | - V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces - Heated and ventilated front seats | - Heated front seats - Split folding rear seats | - Heated front seats - Split folding rear seats - Way power passenger seat | - Heated front seats - Split folding rear seats - Way power passenger seat |
| Seats and Rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Engine/Drive Type | 3.6L V6 or 2.0L four-cylinder | 3.6L V6 or 2.0L four-cylinder | 3.6L V6 or 2.0L four-cylinder | 3.6L V6 or 2.0L four-cylinder |
8. Chevrolet Traverse
When it comes to SUVs with 2nd-row captain seats, the Chevrolet Traverse is easily the most expensive option.
If you get it brand new, you can’t expect to pay a dollar less than $40,000. But with EchoPark, you can get a used Chevrolet Traverse for around $26,000 in excellent condition.
This one features a height-adjustable driver’s seat and second-row captain seats.
Features
Some highlighting features of the Chevrolet Traverse include:
- Lots of cargo room: The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offers 98 cubic feet of max cargo volume and flexible second-row seating with a bench or captain's chairs.
- OnStar: It connects you with OnStar® for live support, on-demand vehicle diagnostics, HD streaming, and more.
- Hands-free driving:Super Cruise technology allows hands-free driving on 400,000 miles of roads in the U.S. and Canada.
Trim selections
The Chevrolet Traverse has six trim selections.
| Features | LS | LT Cloth | LT Leather | RS | Premier | High Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Captain seats | On-demand | On-demand | Second row | Second row | Second row | Second row |
| Seat features | - Power driver seat with four-way power lumbar - Second-row Smart Slide® seating | - Cloth upholstery -Height-adjustable driver seat | - Leather upholstery - Height-adjustable driver seat | - Two-way manual passenger seat adjustment - Multi-level heated driver seat | - Ventilated front seats - Heated rear seats | -Passenger seat with power adjustable lumbar support |
| Seats and Rows | Eight seats Three rows | Eight seats Three rows | Eight seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows | Seven seats Three rows |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Engine/Drive Type | 3.6-liter V6 gasoline | 3.6-liter V6 gasoline | 3.6-liter V6 gasoline | 3.6-liter V6 gasoline | 3.6-liter V6 gasoline | 3.6-liter V6 gasoline |
Get budget-friendly SUVs with captain chairs at EchoPark
EchoPark’s selection of pre-owned SUVs makes it easy for budget-conscious drivers to enjoy comfortable captain chairs.
Thanks to our 190-point inspection process, we only offer used cars kept in mint condition. You’ll always get your money’s worth, but our seven-day money-back guarantee will keep you covered if you're unsatisfied.
For your peace of mind, we also offer other protection plans, including vehicle service contracts, guaranteed asset protection (GAP), and appearance and dent protection.
Visit EchoPark today to find the best SUV with captain seats and schedule a test drive.
