Bench seats are great when you’re trying to fit the most people in your SUV, but if you have the luxury of a little extra space, opting for captain’s chairs can make for greater comfort and easier third-row access. What, exactly, is a “captain’s chair,” you ask? Good question! In automotive terms, a captain’s chair is a single, free-standing seat in the second or third row of a 3-row vehicle. Think of it like a typical modern front bucket seat, just a little farther back. Captain’s chairs are an alternative to the standard bench seat often found in SUVs, minivans, and other vehicles with three rows.
Why are captain’s chairs more comfortable? Because they’re typically more adjustable than a bench seat, each second-row passenger gets armrests, and many even provide lumbar support. Depending on the manufacturer, captain’s chairs may also fold away more cleanly to provide even greater cargo space when you’re not moving passengers.
|
PROS ✓ |
CONS ❌ |
| Easier to get to the third row | Lose room for one passenger |
|
More personal space |
May cost extra |
|
Creates storage space for items between seats |
Can’t sit between child seats in that row |
Here are the SUVs available with captain’s chairs in 2024-2025. You can also find several of these as used models. You can start your search here.
1. Bentley Bentayga
Supreme luxury meets the utility of an SUV in the Bentley Bentayga, so perhaps it’s no surprise you can order yours with second-row captain’s chairs or just about any custom upgrade or feature you’d like — for a price, of course. Just don’t expect to see it on our monthly list of the best SUV deals.
See Bentley Bentayga models for sale
2. BMW X7
As the brand’s largest SUV, the BMW X7 has the most room for not only people and things but also luxurious equipment and materials. Despite its size, it’s still a BMW and, therefore, still engaging to drive.
3. Buick Enclave
If you’re looking for a premium SUV that puts its premium on comfort, the Buick Enclave is a great choice. It’s also well-equipped for the money and full of high-tech features, splitting the difference between mainstream and true luxury.
See Buick Enclave models for sale
4. Cadillac Escalade/Cadillac Escalade ESV
The Cadillac Escalade is not only luxurious and spacious, it’s one of the most capable luxury SUVs on the market, with a potent V8 engine and serious towing capability of up to 8,200 pounds.
See Cadillac Escalade models for sale or see Cadillac Escalade ESV models for sale
5. Cadillac XT6
For a Cadillac SUV that’s big on personality but perhaps a bit more reasonable in terms of exterior dimensions, there’s the Cadillac XT6. Built for life in the city and suburbs, the XT6 turns up the comfort and efficiency dials relative to the Escalade.
See Cadillac XT6 models for sale
6. Chevrolet Tahoe/Chevrolet Suburban
If you love the capability and room of a full-size GM SUV but could do without the price tag of the Escalade, then the Tahoe is the truck-based SUV for you. That is, unless you want even more cargo space and interior volume, then you should look at the Chevrolet Suburban.
See Chevrolet Tahoe models for sale or see Chevrolet Suburban models for sale
7. Chevrolet Traverse
Skipping the truck-based capability of the Tahoe and Suburban for more urbane suburban comfort and maneuverability without trading much in the way of interior space, the Chevy Traverse is a great choice for families.
See Chevrolet Traverse models for sale
8. Dodge Durango
With the easy-to-maneuver-and-park exterior dimensions of a midsize SUV but the body-on-frame and available V8 bona fides of a traditional full-size SUV, the Dodge Durango sits astride several categories, making it a flexible choice for those who need to do a bit of everything.
See Dodge Durango models for sale
9. Ford Expedition/Ford Expedition Max
Ford’s answer to the Tahoe and Suburban, the Expedition and the longer Expedition Max are SUVs for moving people and things while towing, if you like, on-road or off.
See Ford Expedition models for sale or see Ford Expedition Max models for sale
10. Ford Explorer
A midsize SUV that proves you don’t need a body-on-frame SUV to have a 400-horsepower engine option or tow up to 5,600 pounds. The Ford Explorer is also comfortable, offers a wide range of configurations, and is even available as a hybrid.
See Ford Explorer models for sale
11. GMC Acadia
No matter if you’re looking for an off-road-oriented midsize SUV or a luxurious, refined people mover, the GMC Acadia has a trim for you, from the elevation to the Denali with the off-road-minded AT4 in between.
See GMC Acadia models for sale
12. GMC Yukon/GMC Yukon XL
Closely related to the Tahoe and Suburban, the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL are just as capable and tough, but they have their unique style and equipment configurations. While the Tahoe and Suburban can be made quite luxurious, the Yukon Denali Ultimate rivals the Cadillac Escalade.
See GMC Yukon models for sale or see GMC Yukon XL models for sale
13. Honda Pilot
For families who don’t want a minivan, the Honda Pilot is a great alternative. It offers lots of interior passenger and cargo space, smart features for daily life with kids, and great value for money.
See Honda Pilot models for sale
14. Hyundai Palisade
Hyundai’s largest SUV, the Palisade, has expansive 3-row seating, with even the third row offering 31.4 inches of legroom. Opting for the second-row captain’s chairs reduces total seating capacity from eight to seven but improves ease of access to the rearmost seats.
See Hyundai Palisade models for sale
15. Hyundai Santa Fe
Available in conventional and hybrid forms, the all-new 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe went on sale earlier this year, and the 2025 model year sees no major updates to the popular 3-row family SUV. The rugged XRT trim offers genuine improvement to the Santa Fe’s off-road ability, but only the top-spec Calligraphy trim gets the second-row captain’s chairs.
See Hyundai Santa Fe models for sale
16. Infiniti QX60
The Infiniti QX60’s dramatic yet elegant style and extensive standard equipment make it attractive inside and out. Its solid value for money in the luxury space is a nice bonus.
See Infiniti QX60 models for sale
17. Infiniti QX80
So you want an old-school, full-size luxury SUV but don’t want to buy an Escalade or a Lincoln Navigator? The 2024 Infiniti QX80 gets a 400-hp V8 and can tow up to 8,500 pounds. In the all-new 2025 model, the second-row captain’s chairs add a massage feature in the Autograph trim.
See Infiniti QX80 models for sale
18. Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Building on the good looks, off-road ability, and midsize proportions of the Grand Cherokee, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L adds a bit of extra length and a third row of seating. The second-row captain’s chairs are standard equipment, but a bench seat is optional.
See Jeep Grand Cherokee models for sale
19. Jeep Wagoneer/Jeep Grand Wagoneer
The Jeep Wagoneer is a mainstream full-size 3-row SUV that’s also available in luxury form as the Grand Wagoneer — and both are also available in long-wheelbase L variants. If you’re looking for a full-size SUV with more than 9,800 pounds of towing ability, have a look at the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer.
See Jeep Wagoneer models for sale or see Jeep Grand Wagoneer models for sale
20. Kia EV9
Spacious, comparably affordable yet upscale, and sporting futuristic looks, the Kia EV9 is a 3-row electric SUV with up to 304 miles of range. The available dual-motor powertrain makes it plenty quick, and there’s up to 81.9 cubic feet of cargo space, making it practical, too.
21. Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV with standard 3-row seating. Unlike many 3-row SUVs, however, its maximum seating capacity is seven, and with the optional second-row captain’s chairs, it drops to six. The Sorento is the lowest-priced SUV available with captain’s chairs, and one of the cheapest new 3-row SUVs you can buy.
See Kia Sorento models for sale
22. Kia Telluride
With good off-road ability, luxurious upgrade paths, and plenty of standard equipment, the Kia Telluride can be configured for a wide variety of owners and budgets. Parents will appreciate the standard rear-speaker voice amplifier to tame rowdy third-row denizens.
See Kia Telluride models for sale
23. Lamborghini Urus
Extremely fast, extremely luxurious, and extremely extreme, the Lamborghini Urus isn’t for wallflowers. Still, it is good for families, groups, or adults, as even though it doesn’t get a third row, the seats it does have are roomy and comfortable even for 6-foot-plus adults.
See Lamborghini Urus models for sale
24. Land Rover Defender 130
Although you can get the Land Rover Defender in three lengths (90, 110, and 130), only the longest, the Defender 130, offers captain’s chairs — and it’s a new option added for the 2025 model year. The Defender 130 is a great choice for those who need 3-row seating and serious off-road ability.
See Land Rover Defender 130 models for sale
25. Land Rover Range Rover/Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Combining luxury and off-roading prowess in its inimitable way, the Land Rover Range Rover, in many ways, sets the standards by which all other luxury SUVs are judged, especially at the super-luxury end of the market. Opt for the Range Rover Sport if you can do without the third row.
See Land Rover Range Rover models for sale or see Land Rover Range Rover Sport models for sale
26. Lexus GX
The Lexus GX was all-new for the 2024 model year, with aggressive style and off-road capability, as well as Lexus’ well-earned reputation for luxury and comfort. If you opt for the second-row captain’s chairs, they’ll also come with seat heaters. Audiophiles will also want to check out the 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system.
27. Lexus TX
An all-new model to the range, the Lexus TX is based on car underpinnings rather than truck running gear like the GX, and that makes it more comfortable, quieter, easier to get in and out of, and generally more civilized for on-road use. It’s also more spacious, with three rows of seating.
28. Lincoln Aviator
Stylish, spacious, and comfortable, the Lincoln Aviator is neither too big nor too small, comes with lots of great tech, and is available as a plug-in hybrid. For a next-level experience, consider the Aviator Black Label, which includes numerous perks in addition to top-spec luxury equipment.
See Lincoln Aviator models for sale
29. Lincoln Navigator/Lincoln Navigator L
Although the Navigator is all-new for the 2025 model year, the existing 2024 model is also available with second-row captain’s chairs. Whichever version you choose, you’ll get a capable full-size luxury SUV with serious power, towing capacity, and space, as well as upscale materials and equipment. Both are also available in standard and long-wheelbase form.
See Lincoln Navigator models for sale or see Lincoln Navigator L models for sale
30. Mazda CX-90
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is an all-new model. It’s a 3-row SUV with a sportiness that belies its footprint. Available in mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid forms, the CX-90 aims to be a flexible all-around family SUV.
See Mazda CX-90 models for sale
31. Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class/Mercedes-Maybach GLS-Class
The most luxurious Mercedes-Benz SUV you can buy, the GLS-Class, is not quite as large as some other full-size SUVs but still offers comfortable 3-row seating, a classy interior, and strong engine choices. For the ultimate in luxury, upgrade to the Mercedes-Maybach version.
See Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class models for sale or see Mercedes-Maybach GLS-Class models for sale
32. Nissan Armada
Sharing its underpinnings with the Infiniti QX80, the Nissan Armada is a no-nonsense full-size SUV that’s able to run with the best. It’s also the biggest, most capable, and most luxurious SUV in Nissan’s lineup.
See Nissan Armada models for sale
33. Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder makes a lot of sense for a more sensibly sized SUV, especially for use off-road. It also gets top safety ratings and has a best-in-class towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. Look for a Rock Creek edition for even more rugged appeal.
See Nissan Pathfinder models for sale
34. Rolls-Royce Cullinan
Extreme luxury and exclusivity are hallmarks of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan; its boxy form perfectly fits the Rolls-Royce design image, creating an even more imposing presence. If you’re looking to float along in comfort no matter the terrain, the Cullinan is a good bet.
See Rolls-Royce Cullinan models for sale
35. Subaru Ascent
An Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick with standard all-wheel drive, the Subaru Ascent has won over many families before they’ve even stepped on the lot. It’s also packed with standard tech and abundant available driver-assist features.
See Subaru Ascent models for sale
36. Tesla Model X
Falcon Wing doors aside, the Tesla Model X is the current benchmark for the electric SUV segment, with all the range, speed, and technology buyers are after. Opting for the captain’s chairs limits maximum occupancy to six.
See Tesla Model X models for sale
37. Toyota Grand Highlander
A new model for 2024, the Toyota Grand Highlander shares a similar name but no significant architecture with the massively popular Highlander. Instead, it’s a different SUV with much more interior space, especially in the third row, which can accommodate passengers as tall as 6-foot-4.
See Toyota Grand Highlander models for sale
38. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is no less desirable just because there’s a bigger version in the lineup now. It’s still the comfortable, dependable, safe midsize SUV that’s been winning over families since its introduction in 2000.
See Toyota Highlander models for sale
39. Toyota Sequoia
A full-size, truck-based SUV with all the qualities and capabilities that configuration implies, the Toyota Sequoia is a hybrid by default but can still tow up to 9,520 pounds. With the TRD Pro trim, the Sequoia can also be fitted for real off-road ability, too.
See Toyota Sequoia models for sale
40. Volkswagen Atlas
Wide and spacious yet as easy to drive as a sedan, the Volkswagen Atlas comes with lots of desirable in-cabin tech, like wireless device charging and a 12-inch infotainment system. It also has a spacious third-row seat with 33.7 inches of legroom.
See Volkswagen Atlas models for sale
SUVs Available With Captain’s Chairs in 2024-2025
- Bentley Bentayga
- BMW X7
- Buick Enclave
- Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV
- Cadillac XT6
- Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Dodge Durango
- Ford Expedition/Expedition Max
- Ford Explorer
- GMC Acadia
- GMC Yukon/Yukon XL
- Honda Pilot
- Hyundai Palisade
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Infiniti QX60
- Infiniti QX80
- Jeep Grand Cherokee L
- Jeep Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer
- Kia EV9
- Kia Sorento
- Kia Telluride
- Lamborghini Urus
- Land Rover Defender 130
- Land Rover Range Rover/Range Rover Sport
- Lexus GX
- Lexus TX
- Lincoln Aviator
- Lincoln Navigator/Navigator L
- Mazda CX-90
- Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class/Mercedes-Maybach GLS-Class
- Nissan Armada
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Rolls-Royce Cullinan
- Subaru Ascent
- Tesla Model X
- Toyota Grand Highlander
- Toyota Highlander
- Toyota Sequoia
- Volkswagen Atlas
Are captain’s chairs in SUVs worth it?