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Does the Ford Expedition have bench seats?

The Ford Expedition can be configured with a three-passenger second row bench to seat eight people, but many trims come with two-person captain’s chairs in the second row, which lowers seating to seven. Availability varies by model year and trim level.


How seating options work


Understanding the Expedition’s seating starts with the second row. The front row is typically two buckets, while the second row can be either a 3-person bench or a pair of captain’s chairs. The third row is usually a 3-person bench. When the second row is a bench, you can reach an eight-passenger configuration; when it’s captain’s chairs, the total is seven.


Second-row configurations



  • Bench seat (three across) in the second row: enables an eight-passenger setup (2 front + 3 second-row + 3 third-row).

  • Captain’s chairs in the second row (two seats): typically yields seven passengers (2 front + 2 second-row + 3 third-row).


When shopping, confirm whether the specific vehicle you’re considering has a second-row bench or captain’s chairs, as this is a common source of variation across years and trims.


Seating by trim (typical across recent model years)


The availability of bench seating versus captain’s chairs is largely tied to the trim level. The following outlines common patterns, but exact configurations can change by year and market.



  • XL: Often offered with a second-row bench to support eight-passenger seating, though some configurations may pair bench with other options depending on the year.

  • XLT: Frequently ships with captain’s chairs in the second row (seven-passenger), with the possibility of a bench option to restore eight seats on certain builds.

  • Limited: Typically features second-row captain’s chairs (seven-passenger), with bench configurations sometimes available as an option on specific years/markets.

  • King Ranch: Usually configured with captain’s chairs in the second row (seven-passenger).

  • Platinum: Commonly equipped with captain’s chairs in the second row (seven-passenger), with bench seating less frequently offered on modern builds.


In short, if eight seats are a priority, look for a model year and trim that advertises a three-across second-row bench. Always verify the exact seating arrangement in the dealer’s build sheet or window sticker for the specific vehicle you’re considering.


Why seating configuration matters


Beyond passenger capacity, the choice between bench and captain’s chairs affects access to the third row, cargo space, and interior comfort. Bench seats offer easier third-row access and maximum seating, while captain’s chairs provide easier entry and a more premium feel, at the cost of one seat.


Summary


The Ford Expedition can have bench seats in the second row, allowing up to eight passengers, but many trims default to two-row captain’s chairs for seven-passenger capacity. Seating options vary by model year and trim, so always confirm the exact configuration when buying or leasing.

How many people can be seated in a Ford Expedition?


eight passengers
The Ford Expedition offers seating for up to eight passengers in its standard configuration. This includes three rows, with a three-passenger bench seat in both the second and third rows.



What Ford trucks have bench seats?


2023 Ford F-150 Cab Options

  • Regular Cab. The regular cab has a front bench seat capable of seating three.
  • SuperCab. The Super Can can seat up to six passengers with front and rear bench seats.
  • SuperCrew Cab.



Does the Ford Expedition have 7 seats?


2025 Ford Expedition Seating Options
Active: Standard 8-passenger capacity / available 7-passenger capacity. Tremor®: Choice of 8-passenger capacity or 7-passenger capacity.



When did Ford stop bench seats?


Front bench seats became increasingly rare in sedans, even in large American premium models like the Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car, which discontinued them by 2011.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.