How big is the back of a Ford Explorer with the seats down?
The back of a Ford Explorer expands noticeably when you fold the rear seats. For the current generation, there are three published figures depending on how many rows are down: about 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, about 47.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded (roughly 0.52, 1.35 and 2.49 cubic meters respectively).
These figures reflect Ford’s official specifications for the modern Explorer (model years roughly 2020 onward). They provide a useful baseline for planning, but real-world space can vary slightly by trim, floor configuration, and whether a spare tire is stored under the cargo floor. The article below breaks down each scenario and notes practical considerations for everyday use.
Cargo space configurations
Before listing the numbers, note that Ford publishes cargo capacities that depend on which seats are folded. The following figures apply to the latest Explorer models and are commonly cited by dealers and reviewers.
- Behind the third row (seats up): 18.2 cubic feet (0.52 cubic meters)
- Behind the second row (third row folded): 47.8 cubic feet (1.35 cubic meters)
- Maximum with both second and third rows folded: 87.8 cubic feet (2.49 cubic meters)
These values are the baseline figures used by Ford for the current-generation Explorer. They can vary slightly by year, trim level, and floor configuration, such as whether a spare tire sits under the floor or inside a well.
Practical considerations
In practice, the usable space while folding seats down can be influenced by several factors, including the presence of a cargo shelf, the shape of cargo with irregular items, and whether you’re stacking bulky objects high or laying long items flat. Some trims offer a flatter floor when the rear seats are folded, which can help with longer objects but may slightly reduce available vertical space depending on the configuration.
What to expect by year and trim
While the three-volume breakdown remains a useful rule of thumb, minor differences can occur across model years or trims due to packaging choices, spare tire location, or changes to the interior layout. Always consult the specific model year’s official specifications or measure your typical cargo to confirm exact capacity for your configuration.
Summary
The Ford Explorer offers flexible cargo space that scales with seating configuration: 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded, roughly 0.52, 1.35 and 2.49 cubic meters. These figures are current-generation baselines and can vary slightly by year, trim, and floor setup.
How big is the cargo space on the Ford Explorer?
The Ford Explorer has three main cargo space dimensions: 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet with the third row folded down, and up to 87.8 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The specific dimensions can vary slightly by model year.
This video explains the cargo space dimensions for different configurations of the 2021 Ford Explorer: 54sCars With SteveYouTube · Jan 14, 2021
- Behind the third row: 18.218.218.2 cubic feet
- Behind the second row: 47.947.947.9 cubic feet
- Behind the first row (with all rear seats folded): Up to 87.887.887.8 cubic feet
You can watch this video to see the cargo space dimensions of the 2022 Ford Explorer: 59sCars With SteveYouTube · Feb 1, 2022
Will a 4x8 sheet of plywood fit in a Ford Explorer?
Yes, you can fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood in a modern Ford Explorer by folding down the second and third-row seats. It will fit with the rear hatch open, running from the front passenger area up to the back of the vehicle.
This video shows how to transport a sheet of plywood in a Ford Explorer: 1mFixing With PassionYouTube · Nov 21, 2017
- How to fit it: Fold down both the second and third-row seats to create a long, flat surface.
- Positioning: The sheet will run from the front of the cabin, over the folded seats, to the open rear hatch.
- Securing it: While it may fit with the hatch closed, it's safer to keep the hatch open to avoid scratching the headliner or damaging the sheet, especially if it's a thicker piece.
- Caution: Be careful not to damage the interior, especially the headliner, when loading and transporting the sheet.
- Older models: Some older models may not have the right dimensions or a flat enough cargo area, so always check the specific dimensions of your vehicle.
- Alternative: If your vehicle has a wider cargo area, such as a Ford Expedition MAX, you can even close the liftgate with a 4x8 sheet inside.
How many feet is the inside of a Ford Explorer?
Inside the Explorer, there's a total passenger volume of 151.7 cubic feet, enough to comfortably seat seven people. In the front, the driver and passenger will enjoy 57.3 inches of hip room with 42.9 inches of legroom overall. In terms of headroom, up front there's 41.4 inches, along with 61.5 inches of shoulder room.
Will a full size mattress fit in the back of a Ford Explorer?
Yes, a full-size mattress can fit in a Ford Explorer, but it's a tight squeeze and you will likely need to fold down the second and third-row seats. You may also need to bend the mattress slightly to maneuver it past the wheel wells. Some users have reported success by bending it in a "U" shape and using tie-down straps to secure it.
What to know before you go
- Fold down the seats: You will need to fold down the second and third rows to get the most cargo space available.
- Measure first: Check the specific dimensions of your mattress and your particular model year of Ford Explorer, as interior cargo dimensions can vary by year.
- Consider a mattress pad or air mattress: A flexible mattress pad or air mattress will be easier to fit than a traditional thick mattress.
- Secure it: Use tie-down straps to secure the mattress to prevent it from shifting during transport.
