Do any SUVs have a bench seat?

Yes. A handful of full-size SUVs still offer a three-across second-row bench seat, preserving eight-passenger capacity on certain trims; most modern SUVs favor captain’s chairs or other configurations.

In today’s market, interior layouts have largely shifted toward two individual seats in the second row (captain’s chairs) for easier access to the third row and a more premium feel. However, for families prioritizing maximum passenger capacity or a traditional three-across setup, several full-size SUVs still provide a second-row bench seat in at least one trim. The availability can vary by model year and region, so buyers should verify the exact configuration with a dealer before purchase.

What a bench seat means for buyers

A bench seat, particularly in the second row, allows three passengers to ride side-by-side, which can be important for eight-passenger configurations and certain family use cases. It can also affect cargo space and access to the third row, since a bench spans the width of the seat area. For shoppers who need a three-abreast second row, bench seating is a decisive factor when comparing trims and options.

SUVs that currently offer a second-row bench seat

The following models are known to provide a second-row bench seat on at least one trim, typically in lower-cost or base configurations. Availability varies by year and market, so confirm exact seating with the dealer.

• Chevrolet Tahoe — This full-size SUV has offered an 8-passenger layout with a 60/40 split second row bench in certain trims, with captain’s chairs available on others.


• Chevrolet Suburban — Shares the same platform and seating options as the Tahoe, including bench-seat availability in some trims.


• GMC Yukon — Similar to its GM siblings, the Yukon can be configured with a second-row bench seat on select trims.


• Ford Expedition — In lower trims (such as XL/XLT), buyers can find an 8-passenger configuration with a second-row bench; higher trims often feature captain’s chairs as an alternative.


• Nissan Armada — Some trims offer an 8-passenger setup with a second-row bench seat, giving three-across seating in that row.


• Toyota Sequoia — The newer Sequoia models include an 8-passenger option with a three-across second row on certain trims.

Concluding note: If a bench seat is a priority, verify the exact seating configuration for the model year and trim you’re considering. Regional offerings and option packages can alter whether a bench is available on a given model.

How to shop for a bench-seat SUV

When shopping, focus on the following steps to ensure you get the bench seating you want:

• Check the trunk and second-row layout in the brochure or on the dealer lot to confirm whether the second row is bench or captain’s chairs for the trim you’re considering.


• Ask about the inclusions of the bench seat in base trims versus optional packages in higher trims, since manufacturers may restrict bench seating to lower-cost configurations.


• Take a test drive with all occupants to evaluate accessibility to the third row, since bench seating can influence how easily passengers can enter and exit behind the second row.

In practice, the choice between a bench seat and captain’s chairs often comes down to a trade-off between passenger capacity and access/comfort in the second row. Buyers who need eight seats and easy three-across seating should prioritize models and trims that explicitly advertise a bench option.

Summary

While the modern SUV market largely favors captain’s chairs in the second row, several full-size models still offer a bench seat on at least one trim, preserving an eight-passenger layout with three-across seating. Before buying, confirm the exact interior configuration for the specific year and trim, as availability can vary widely. If maximizing passenger capacity with a bench in the second row is your goal, you can still find viable options in the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, GMC Yukon, Ford Expedition, Nissan Armada, and Toyota Sequoia families.

Which SUVs have bench seats?

Many SUVs come with a bench seat, often in the third row, with options for a second-row bench or captain's chairs. Popular models with bench seat options include the Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Suburban, and Honda Pilot. Some vehicles offer versatility with a removable middle seat, like the Honda Pilot, or with a second-row that can slide, which is helpful for third-row access with a car seat, like the Chevrolet Traverse. 
Popular SUVs with bench seats

• Chevrolet Traverse: Offers an optional second-row bench seat for maximum passenger capacity, and the seats can slide forward even with a car seat installed for easier third-row access. 
• Ford Expedition: A large and rugged SUV with ample interior space and a third-row bench seat that is surprisingly roomy for adults. 
• Chevrolet Suburban: A large SUV known for its spacious cabin, which can be configured to seat up to nine people with a bench seat option. 
• Honda Pilot: Offers a second-row bench seat on some trims, which includes a removable middle seat for added flexibility. 
• GMC Yukon: A full-size SUV that is available with a third-row bench seat on some trims. 

Other options to consider

• Toyota Sequoia: A hybrid SUV that offers three rows of seating, though the second row may be configured with captain's chairs depending on the trim level. 
• Kia Sorento: A more budget-friendly option that comes with three rows of seating. 
• Mazda CX-90: A three-row SUV that is available with both captain's chairs and a second-row bench seat. 
• Volvo XC90: A luxury option with a spacious three-row bench seat. 

What is the easiest car for seniors to get in and out of?

SUVs and crossovers are generally the easiest cars for seniors to get in and out of because their higher ride height allows for a more horizontal movement, often referred to as the "zero plop factor". Popular models that are good for ease of access include the Hyundai Santa Fe, Subaru Forester, and Honda CR-V, as they combine a good seat height with wide door openings. Minivans also offer a convenient, high-entry design. 
Top car types for seniors

• SUVs and crossovers: These are a great starting point because their higher stance means a more comfortable "chair height" entry, reducing the need to sit down or climb up. 
  • Hyundai Santa Fe: Often cited for its higher seating position and wide door openings. 
  • Subaru Forester: Known for its good ride height and roomy interior. 
  • Honda CR-V: Praised for its easy access and safety features. 
• Minivans: These offer a very accessible design, especially in terms of entry height. 
  • Honda Odyssey: A popular choice for its overall convenience. 
  • Kia Carnival: Another good minivan option for easy access. 

What to look for

• "Zero plop" factor: A car is ideal when the seat height is level with the user's hip height, making it easy to slide in and out without climbing or dropping into the seat, according to A Girls Guide to Cars. 
• Wide door openings: Wider openings make it easier to get a foot in and out and provide more room to maneuver. 
• Spacious interior: A roomy cabin provides more space for getting in and out of the vehicle without feeling cramped. 
• Automatic transmission: This is an easy-to-use feature that avoids the complexity of a manual clutch. 

Why are there no bench seats in cars anymore?

Bench seats vanished because modern safety engineering, packaging of electronics and HVAC, and consumer preference for individual seats and center consoles made front-middle seating impractical, costly, and less comfortable. The few remaining benches appear only where utility outweighs those drawbacks.

Do any cars still have bench seats?

Yes, some modern vehicles still have bench seats, particularly large SUVs and full-size pickup trucks. While rare in passenger cars, they are still available in some higher trim levels and lower-end models of larger vehicles, and are being explored again in future electric and autonomous vehicle concepts.
 
Bench seats in current vehicles

• Pickup Trucks: Many full-size trucks, such as the Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, and GMC Sierra, still offer front bench seats, often in their lower trims. 
• Large SUVs: Models like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, and GMC Yukon often come with options for front bench seats. 
• Other Vehicles: Some SUVs, like the Volkswagen Atlas and Jeep Grand Cherokee L, offer them in higher trim levels. 

The future of bench seats

• Technological Advancements: With the shift to electronic controls and the development of new airbag technologies, there's a possibility that bench seats could make a comeback in more passenger cars. 
• Autonomous Vehicles: The rise of self-driving technology could lead to a complete redesign of car interiors, possibly with bench-like seats that are more like living room furniture, as a steering wheel may no longer be necessary.