What SUV has a sliding door?
At present, no mainstream SUV features a true sliding door; sliding doors are typically a minivan feature. This article explains why that is, lists the models that do offer sliding doors, and explores alternatives for easy access in vehicles with SUV styling.
Why sliding doors are rare in SUVs
Sliding doors require a different door track and seating layout than conventional hinged doors. They are favored in minivans because they maximize easy ingress and egress for passengers and gear, especially in tight parking spots or when loading children. SUVs, which prioritize ruggedness and sometimes sportier design, generally use hinged doors to preserve structural rigidity and curb weight. As a result, sliding doors remain the hallmark of minivans rather than traditional sport-utility vehicles.
Models with sliding doors
Below are the current vehicles most commonly associated with sliding rear doors. In many markets these are categorized as minivans or multi-purpose people movers rather than SUVs.
- Honda Odyssey
- Toyota Sienna
- Chrysler Pacifica
- Kia Carnival
- Mercedes-Benz V-Class (marketed as a van; available with sliding doors in many regions)
Where available, these models offer sliding doors on both sides, providing easy access for rear-seat passengers and flexible interior layouts. SUVs that prioritize sport-utility styling typically do not offer sliding doors as a factory option.
Alternatives to sliding doors in an SUV-style vehicle
For buyers who want easier rear access or more flexible cargo handling while still preferring an SUV design, several features can help without using sliding doors:
Accessibility and cargo features to consider
Look for vehicles with wide-opening rear doors, large cargo openings, multiple seating configurations, and advanced power options such as hands-free liftgates, smart entry, and captain’s chairs that slide or recline for easier access. Some SUVs also offer seating that can fold flat or slide forward to maximize cargo space without requiring sliding doors.
What about special-door concepts?
There are no mass-market SUVs with true sliding doors as of now. Some electric or performance models use alternative door designs—such as gull-wing or falcon-wing doors—that open differently from traditional hinged doors, but these are not sliding doors. If your priority is side-access convenience, minivans remain the standard choice rather than SUVs.
Summary
In today’s market, no widely sold SUV offers a true sliding door. For sliding doors, your best options are minivans such as the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, Kia Carnival, or the Mercedes-Benz V-Class in markets where it’s available. If you want an SUV feel with easier access, focus on models with wide rear openings, flexible seating, and hands-free or power-door features rather than sliding-door technology.
Bottom line
For sliding-door access, prioritize minivans. If you need an SUV-inspired vehicle, evaluate accessibility features and interior versatility rather than door type, and consider test-driving models that emphasize cabin flexibility and ease of entry.
