Are Ford Explorers 3rd row seating?
In Ford Explorer models, three rows of seating are standard, with enough flexibility to carry up to seven passengers in a 2-3-2 layout. If you opt for second-row captain’s chairs, total seating drops to six. The third row itself seats two and folds flat to increase cargo space when not in use.
The exact seating arrangement can vary by model year and trim, so checking the specific vehicle’s configuration is important for buyers and renters who need to plan around people and gear.
Seating configurations
Two primary layouts define the Explorer’s current seating options. The following outlines what you can typically find across recent model years.
- 7-passenger layout (2-3-2): Front row with two seats, a second row with three seats, and a two-seat third row.
- 6-passenger layout (2-2-2): Front row with two seats, a second row with two captain’s chairs, and a two-seat third row.
These configurations determine not only passenger capacity but also how much cargo space remains when rows are in use.
Practical considerations
Access to the third row, legroom, and cargo capacity vary depending on whether the second row is a bench or captain’s chairs. Here’s what typically matters for daily use:
- Second-row bench (7 seats): More passenger capacity, but access to the third row can be tighter when all seats are occupied.
- Second-row captain’s chairs (6 seats): Easier access to the third row, especially for kids or shorter trips; slightly reduced overall passenger count.
- Third-row space: Two seats suitable for children or shorter riders; legroom improves with higher trims that offer more generous interior design.
In practice, buyers often choose based on whether they need maximum seating or easier access and cargo flexibility.
Trim and model-year notes
Availability of the captain’s chairs and the 7- vs 6-passenger setup varies by model year and trim. In many recent years, the second-row captain’s chairs are offered as an option on mid- to high-level trims, while the 7-passenger 2-3-2 layout is common on base and most trims.
- 7-passenger standard: 2-3-2 seating on many trims with a second-row bench.
- 6-passenger option: second-row captain’s chairs available on select trims; third row remains two seats.
Because specifications shift year to year, confirm the exact seating arrangement for a given model year with the dealer or Ford’s official product pages.
Summary
Ford Explorers offer flexible three-row seating that can accommodate up to seven passengers in a 2-3-2 configuration. The second row can be a 3-seat bench or, on certain trims, captain’s chairs that reduce seating to six. The two-seat third row remains, and it folds to expand cargo space when not in use. Your choice between maximum seating and easier access/cargo depends on the trim and model year you select.
