Are all Ford Explorers 7 passenger?
No. Ford Explorers can be configured for 7 passengers, but a 6-passenger setup is also available, and seat arrangements can vary by model year and trim.
In recent model years, the Explorer primarily offers two main seating options: a 7-passenger layout with a 3-person second row and a 2-person third row, or a 6-passenger layout with two captain’s chairs in the second row and still two in the third row. There is typically no standard 5-passenger configuration in the contemporary lineup.
Two main seating configurations in modern Explorers
The following outlines the two primary ways the Explorer can be arranged for passengers:
- 7-passenger configuration: 2 in the front row, 3 in the second row, and 2 in the third row (second row is a 3-seat bench).
- 6-passenger configuration: 2 in the front row, 2 in the second row (captain’s chairs), and 2 in the third row.
Choosing between these options affects access to the rear seats and cargo space. A bench-style second row seats seven overall, while captain’s chairs reduce total capacity to six but can improve rear-seat access and comfort for passengers.
Notes for shoppers and owners
Variations exist by model year and market. Commonly, trims such as XLT, Limited, and Platinum offer the captain’s chair option, while some base configurations may standardize on a bench. Always verify the exact seating layout of the specific year and trim you’re considering, since configurations can change between generations and regions.
Summary
The Ford Explorer is not universally a 7-passenger SUV. It offers both 7-passenger setups (with a 3-seat second row) and 6-passenger setups (with optional captain’s chairs in the second row). For precise seating, check the specific model year and trim on the dealer’s lot or in official specifications.
Do all Ford Explorers have 3rd-row seating?
No, not all Ford Explorers have 3rd-row seating, but most models are equipped with it. All models have a third row, but some trims, like the ST, replace the 3-seat bench with two captain's chairs, which reduces the total seating capacity to six instead of seven.
- Standard 3rd row: The standard 3rd-row seat is a bench seat designed to accommodate three passengers, making the vehicle a seven-seater.
- 7-seat vs. 6-seat: The choice between a 7-seat or 6-seat configuration often depends on the trim level you choose, with the captain's chair option on some trims providing easier access to the third row.
- Third-row accessibility: Some trims offer a one-touch button on the second-row seats to help provide easier access to the third row.
Is there a 6 seater Ford Explorer?
On higher trims, ventilated front-row seats and heated second-row seats are included. The Platinum and ST trims come with a massaging function for the front-row seats that we did not have an opportunity to test. The 2025 Ford Explorer continues to offer both six- and seven-seat configurations on every trim level.
Do all Ford Explorers have seven seats?
The Ford Explorer is designed to accommodate families and groups with its standard third-row seating across all Ford Explorer models, allowing for a total seating capacity of up to seven passengers for your drives in and around Arlington.
Do any Ford Explorers have 8 seats?
No, a Ford Explorer does not have 8 seats; it is designed to seat a maximum of seven passengers. To get an 8-seat capacity, you would need a larger vehicle like the Ford Expedition, which is a full-size SUV. The seating capacity for the Explorer depends on the configuration, with a 7-seat configuration having a bench seat in the second row and a 6-seat configuration having captain's chairs.
| Seating configuration | Second row | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 7-passenger | Bench seat | 7 |
| 6-passenger | Captain's chairs | 6 |
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