Whats the difference between a Crew Cab and a Double Cab?
In most pickups, a Crew Cab and a Double Cab refer to the same general four-door, two-row cabin layout; the difference is mostly branding and model-specific naming rather than a universal spec. The exact rear-seat space and bed-length options depend on the model and year.
Because manufacturers do not standardize these terms, it’s important to compare the actual specifications rather than rely on the label alone. Below is a quick guide to how the terms are used today and what to check when shopping.
Brand usage and what it means in practice
Four-door cabs are designed to carry passengers and cargo, but the label you see on a window sticker can indicate differences in interior space and bed options. Here’s a brand-focused snapshot.
- Crews/Crews with brand-specific nicknames: In many American brands, a four-door cab is called a Crew Cab (or SuperCrew in Ford terminology). These configurations typically offer the most rear-seat legroom and a choice of cargo bed lengths. Examples include Ford F-Series (SuperCrew), Ram 1500 (Crew Cab), and Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra (Crew Cab).
- Double Cab (Toyota and others): Toyota popularized the term Double Cab for its four-door variant, especially on the Tacoma and (in some markets) the Tundra. A four-door cab with two rows is standard in this label, while older or regional lines may use Access Cab or Xtra Cab for two-door or smaller rear-door variants. Bed lengths also vary by model and year.
- Not standardized across brands: Some markets and model lines mix labels (for example, a four-door cab labeled as Crew Cab in one brand might be called Double Cab in another). Always verify the model’s exact interior space, door configuration, and bed length rather than assuming based on the label.
In practical terms, the label is a starting point. The key is to check the actual measurements and options for the specific model year and trim you’re considering.
How to compare cab configurations in practice
Use these practical checks when evaluating Crew Cab vs Double Cab options in person or online.
- Rear legroom and headroom: Look up inches of rear-seat space and headroom to ensure comfortable seating for adults in the back.
- Bed length options and payload: Identify available bed lengths (short vs long) and compare payload capacities, which can vary by cab and bed choice.
- Overall length and maneuverability: Four-door cabs add length to the vehicle; consider parking, turning, and daily usability.
- Access and door design: Some cabs emphasize larger rear doors or different door arrangements; test how easy it is to reach rear seats from the doors.
- Model-year and trim variations: Spec sheets change with year and trim level, so verify current options for the exact vehicle you’re evaluating.
With these checks, you’ll be able to determine which cab version best fits your needs, rather than relying on the label alone.
Brand-specific notes and examples
Ford, Ram, Chevrolet/GMC — Crew Cab (general guidance)
These brands commonly offer a four-door Crew Cab option with multiple bed lengths. For example, Ford F-Series often provides a SuperCrew configuration with both shorter and longer bed choices; Ram 1500’s Crew Cab typically pairs with short and long bed options; Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra use Crew Cab configurations with several bed-length options as well. Always confirm the exact bed length and interior space for the trim you’re considering.
Toyota — Double Cab (typical usage)
Toyota commonly uses the term Double Cab for its four-door cabs on models like the Tacoma, with two-row seating. A separate two-door variant (Access Cab or Xtra Cab in older generations) exists on some models. Bed lengths vary by year and trim, so check the current brochure for the exact options.
Other notes
Some markets and models have unique naming or additional cab variants. When in doubt, consult the model’s official specs sheet for rear-seat dimensions, door configuration, and bed length to ensure you’re selecting the configuration that matches your needs.
Summary
In practice, Crew Cab and Double Cab largely refer to the same four-door, two-row pickup layout, but the exact space, door design, and bed-length options depend on the brand and model year. The best approach is to compare the model-specific specifications—rear legroom, bed length, payload, and overall length—and, if possible, test the space in person. The label alone isn’t a reliable predictor of interior comfort or cargo capability.
