SUVs are indeed the most popular vehicles of 2021. However, SUVs with captain seats are getting more attention with every passing month.
Comfort is what we seek when buying a new ride. So if you are looking for a Luxurious SUV, then we think SUV with captain seats and good gas mileage is what you desire.
Whether you checkout two-row SUVs or three-row SUVs, bench seats used to be common. But with the time and enhancements in the vehicle’s style & design, chair seats somehow took over.
But the tug of captain’s chairs vs bench car seats is what makes many buyers restless. So to help you with your purchasing, we have listed some of the best SUVs with bucket seats along with their base features, pros, & cons to help you make a better decision.
What are the best SUVs with captain seats?
When there is a requirement for a car that can accommodate more people than a regular car then SUVs come to the rescue.
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Whenever there is a talk of buying a midsize vehicle, SUVs with captain chairs come up more frequently than we like to admit.
So below we have the best SUVs with captain seats:
- 2021 Chevrolet Suburban
- 2021 Ford Expedition Max
- 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
- 2021 Mazda CX-9
- 2021 BMW X7
- 2021 Kia Sorento
- 2021 Volvo XC90
- 2021 Hyundai Palisade
- 2021 Dodge Durango
- 2021 Toyota Highlander
- 2021 GMC Yukon
Why Choose SUVs with captain chairs?
The question that still lingers in the mind of people is that why should they choose SUVs with captain seats instead of bench ones.
If comfort is what you seek then captain seats are ideal. SUVs are tagged as family cars and you sure do want to provide the best for your family.
The only way you can add a little more comfort to your SUV is via captain seats.
Advantages of Captain’s Chairs:
1. More Supportive
The first and foremost reason that no one can deny is that the bucket seats are more comfortable than the bench seats. Bucket seats provide more lateral support. You are less likely to get swayed from left to right in the curvy roads. Not only this, the captain’s seats have taller seatbacks and provide more spinal support.
2. Easy Access To The Third Row
If you think of buying an SUV with three rows then SUVs with captain seats are ideal. This is because bucket seats provide easy access to the third row as compared to bench seats.
Some SUVs leave space to get access to the third while some seats can be slid to move to the last row.
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3. Center Console
If you choose captain’s seats for your rear rows then it provides an option of a second-row console.
This means you get designated space for storage, extra cup holders, etc. In short, you get a useful surface for passengers in your car.
4. Better Distancing
Bench seats leave no space between the passengers. However, the SUVs with captain seats in the back provide better distancing. Every person gets their personal space and can enjoy each other’s company well.
This is ideal for parents traveling with kids.
5. Independently Adjustable
The captain chairs are more adjustable and give individuals the ease of placing their seats at angles and positions they feel more comfortable with.
6. More Floor Space
You get more floor space in your car with captain’s chairs, especially if you do not keep the console for the second row.
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Disadvantages of Captain’s Chairs:
1. Fewer Seats
The biggest disadvantage that you can feel with an SUV with captain seats is that you get one fewer seat than the regular one.
With bench seats, three people can sit in each of the rear rows. However, with captain seats, only two people can sit in each rear row.
2. Cost More
In comparison to SUVs with bench seats, the SUVs with bucket seats cost more.
3. Loose Cargo
More floor space is indeed a happy thing. However, if you put down the third row to make more cargo space then there is a possibility for the loose luggage to move around creating distraction and uneasiness.
4. Difficult Access
With bucket seats, it is easy to get access to others seating around you. However, with captain seats, you might have to lose your seat belt and move around more to get access to another seat.
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11 Best SUVs With Captain Seats (2021) That You Should Definitely Check-Out:
As we talked about how SUVs generally come with three-seater bench seats. Nevertheless, it did not affect the popularity of SUVs with captain seats.
Today we have evaluated the eleven best SUVs with captain’s chairs for you. We have assessed their features, interior, exterior, ride quality, and more so that you have the perfect idea of what a vehicle is all about.
Whether you want to drive it or just want to relax in the rear seats, our top list will surely help you make a decision.
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1. 2021 Chevrolet Suburban
- MSRP: From $52,300
- Engine: 6.2 L V8, 5.3 L V8, 3.0 L 6-cylinder diesel
- Horsepower: 277 hp – 420 hp
- MPG: Up to 21 city / 27 highway
- TowingCapacity: 7,400 to 7,800 lbs
- CargoVolume: 41.5 ft³, 144.7 ft³ with seat area
If you can spend a good amount of money on your new car purchase then we suggest you take a good look at the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban.
SUVs with captain seats are not hard to find but finding an ideal one in every manner is difficult. But with Chevy Suburban you are in for a treat.
You get astonishing towing capacity, good fuel efficiency, roomy seating area, and impressive cargo space.
The powerful diesel plus gas engines can charge up to 420 hp giving you a sturdy ride with a powerful finish. 2021 Suburban is home to many standard features whether they are tech features or safety features.
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The refined engine performance and composed handling will make you drive it all the time.
Pros:
- Big seating area
- Large cargo area
- Powerful gasoline and diesel engines
- Many of standard features
- Simple to operate infotainment system
Cons:
- Difficult to manoeuvre in tight areas
2. 2021 Ford Expedition Max
- MSRP: From $55,410
- Engine: 3.5 L V6
- Horsepower: 375 hp – 400 hp
- MPG: Up to 17 city / 23 highway
- Towing Capacity: 6,000 to 6,300 lbs
- Cargo Volume: 36 ft³, 121.4 ft³ with seat area
With impressive towing capacity and seating room for five to eight people, the 2021 Ford Expedition Max is one of the best SUVs with captain seats in 2021.
The balanced handling, peppy engine, and huge cabin plus cargo space make it a good SUV choice for you to buy.
For a large SUV, the vehicle has got good fuel efficiency and good towing capacity. The simpler controls, easy use tech features save you any hassle from operating.
You can own the new Ford Expedition Max for a starting price of $55,410.
Pros:
- Brawny engine
- Great towing capacity and gas mileage for class
- Straightforward infotainment controls
- Spacious cabin
Cons:
- Stiff ride with 22-inch wheels
- Some hard plastics in the cabin
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3. 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
- MSRP: From $49,600
- Engine: 6.2 L V8, 5.3 L V8, 3.0 L 6-cylinder diesel
- Horsepower: 277 hp – 420 hp
- MPG: Up to 21 city / 28 highway
- Towing Capacity: 7,600 to 7,900 lbs
- Cargo Volume: 25.5 ft³, 122.9 ft³ with seat area
Another Chevy that will put a smile on your face by providing the best captain’s chairs in the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe.
Chevrolet is known for its comfort & quality and you can experience both in the 2021 Tahoe. The gloomy interior, good cargo hold, robust engines, and impressive reliability rating make Tahoe the best choice among the SUVs with captain seats.
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The intuitive controls, seating capability for about 8 people make it an ideal camping car for your family & friends.
You can purchase the base model of 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe for $49,600.
Pros:
- Top-notch predicted reliability rating
- Huge interior and cargo hold
- Intuitive infotainment controls
- Brawny engines
Cons:
- Firm ride
- Some hard plastics in the cabin
4. 2021 Mazda CX-9
- MSRP: From $34,160
- Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 227 hp
- MPG: Up to 22 city / 28 highway
- Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
- Cargo Volume: 14.4 ft³, 71.2 ft³ with seat area
When it comes to providing luxury at an affordable price, no one can beat Mazda. Mazda is a Japanese luxury car brand that is all about reliability, luxury, & comfort and you indeed get it with its CX-9 SUV with captain seats.
Mazda CX-9 is one of the best SUVs with captain’s chairs. The dynamic performance, swift handling, high-class cabin with luxury makes it hard to ignore.
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Not only this, 2021 CX-9 provides efficient fuel mileage, robust engine 2.5 L 4-cylinder that can produce up to 227 horsepower.
Pros:
- Excellent gas mileage
- Energetic, lively handling
- Powerful engine
- Opulent cabin
Cons:
- Small cargo hold
- Cramped third row
5. 2021 BMW X7
- MSRP: From $74,900
- Engine: 4.4 L V8, 3.0 L 6-Cylinder
- Horsepower: 523 hp
- MPG: Up to 19 city / 24 highway
- Towing Capacity: 5,400 to 5,950 lbs
- Cargo Volume: 12.8 ft³, 90.4 ft³ with seat area
When talking about luxury SUVs with captain seats 2021, how can we not mention the epitome of luxury, BMW?
BMW is among the first luxury car makers who started making SUVs aside from their luxury sports cars.
The 2021 BMW X7 is one of the best family cars for anyone out there. You get two engine options that can power up your ride up to 523 Horsepower.
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With this, you not only get comfortable captain chairs but also an opulent interior, strong acceleration, and a long list of standard features.
The cargo and third-row space are good but many rivals offer more space than this one.
However, if you feel this is way out of budget for you, feel free to check out our list of used luxury SUVs.
Pros:
- Refined interior quality
- A long list of features
- Satisfying acceleration
- Comfortable ride
Cons:
- Rivals offer more passenger and cargo space
- Optional infotainment gesture controls are tricky
6. 2021 Kia Sorento
- MSRP: From $29,390
- Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 191 hp – 281 hp
- MPG: Up to 24 city / 29 highway
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 to 3,500 lbs
- Cargo Volume: 12.6 ft³, 75.5 ft³ with seat area
Another 2021 Suv with captain seats that will suit ideally you and your lifestyle is 2021 Kia Sorento.
With a base price of $29,390 the Sorento not only gives you good seating space but also good gas mileage, robust engine performance, and a fun driving experience.
The good interior quality, user-friendly tech features, and spacious interior are what any person can ask for in a big car like an SUV.
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The second-row seat can be folded to get easy access to the third row. It is one of the best deals you can make at such an affordable price.
Pros:
- Good gas mileage
- The first two rows of seats are comfortable and spacious
- Upscale interior
Cons:
- Mediocre cargo space
- Third rows seats can get uncomfortable if you have long legs
7. 2021 Volvo XC90
- MSRP: From $49,000
- Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 250hp – 316 hp
- MPG: Up to 21 city / 30 highway
- Towing Capacity: 4,000 to 5,000 lbs
- Cargo Volume: 12.6 ft³, 65.5 ft³ with seat area
Volvo is all about comfort and efficient vehicles. You can look into any Volvo running on the streets and see each one of them is all about the customer’s best interest.
The 2021 Volvo XC90 is a three-row luxury SUV that comes with captain seats for the rear seating area.
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With three trim levels, you get a high-end plus spacious interior, lots of standard features, and a good fuel economy. However, some people might find its performance a little bit bland.
Pros:
- Generous seating and cargo space
- Lots of standard safety features
- Good fuel economy
Cons:
- The ride gest harsh when equipped with larger wheels
8. 2021 Hyundai Palisade
- MSRP: From $32,675
- Engine: 3.8 L V6
- Horsepower: 291hp
- MPG: Up to 19 city / 26 highway
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
- Cargo Volume: 18 ft³, 86.4 ft³ with seat area
With seating of 7 to 8 people, 2021 Hyundai Palisade is among the best SUVs with captain seats this year.
The luxury yet spacious interior, robust V6 engine, and poised handling make this car every driver’s dream.
If you are someone who likes to spend much time with their family or carpooling with friends then this 2021 SUV is for you.
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The comfortable seats, refined ride quality, and user-friendly infotainment system will make your journey blissful.
Palisade captain’s chairs will give you nothing to complain about. This affordable ride is what you must check out at least once.
Pros:
- Refined ride and handling
- Spacious, quality interior
- Comfortable seats
- User-friendly infotainment system
- Many standard safety features
Cons:
- Mediocre fuel economy
9. 2021 Dodge Durango
- MSRP: From $32,962
- Engine: 3.6 L V6, 5.7 L V8, 6.2 L V8, 6.4 L V8
- Horsepower: 293 to 710 hp
- MPG: Up to 19 city / 26 highway
- Towing Capacity: 6,200 to 8,700 lbs
- Cargo Volume: 18 ft³, 86.4 ft³ with seat area
If along with SUVs with captain seats you want a ride that is strong for any road or situation, then the 2021 Dodge Durango is one of the best SUVs out there.
This ride is capable of accommodating 5 to 7 people by offering a comfortable interior, easy-to-use infotainment system, and powerful engine options.
With three optional v8 engines that can roar up to 710 horsepower, you can enjoy the thrill and power of speed along with your loved ones.
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The captain’s seats give a spacious area to move. Apart from this, you get good cargo space and impressive towing capability which makes moving heavy things a piece of cake.
Pros:
- Ludicrous optional V8 engines
- Ample seating space
- Outstanding towing capability
- Straightforward infotainment system
Cons:
- Mixed crash test results
- Dull handling
10. 2021 Toyota Highlander
- MSRP: From $35,085
- Engine: 3.5 L V6
- Horsepower: 295 hp
- MPG: Up to 21 city / 29 highway
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs
- Cargo Volume: 16 ft³, 84.3 ft³with seat area
Toyota Highlander is one of the finest SUVs with captain seats of 2021. The model offers a pleasant interior, a robust engine, and captain chairs in all three rows.
With a base price of $35,085, you can own the trim ‘L’ of the model. 2021 Highlander offers six trim levels, with the highest one costing $47,240.
The 3.5 L V6 engine can generate 295 horsepower, which gives you strong acceleration and taste of the speed in a big vehicle.
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Despite all this, the only thing that this SUV lack is the tiny third row.
Pros:
- Strong acceleration
- Commendable cabin quality
- A long list of safety and infotainment features
- Stellar safety score
Cons:
- Cramped third-row seats
- Less agile than rivals
11. 2021 GMC Yukon
- MSRP: From $51,000
- Engine: 6.2 L V8, 5.3 L V8, 3.0 L 6-cylinder diesel
- Horsepower: 277 to 420 hp
- MPG: Up to 21 city / 27 highway
- Towing Capacity: 7,500 to 7,900 lbs
- Cargo Volume: 25.5 ft³, 122.9 ft³ with seat area
When you have got money to spare, why not use it wisely. Buying a 2021 GMC Yukon can become the brightest decision you make this year.
Captain seats are finally getting the attention they deserved, and 2021 Yukon does justice to this high-end feature.
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This 2021 SUV is monstrous both inside and out. With three optional engines, you can charge up your vehicle up to 420 horsepower.
The desirable fuel efficiency, astonishing towing capacity, luxurious interior, and extensive seats even in the third row make the GMC Yukon worth spending every penny on it.
You can buy this 2021 SUV for the starting price of $51,000.
Pros:
- Luxurious interior
- Spacious seats in all three rows
- Powerful engines
- Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons:
- Subpar predicted reliability rating
2022 Upcoming SUVs With Captain Chairs
The upcoming model year will see some new launches with captain seats. The comfort while traveling is what maximum buyers seek. This is the significant reason why captain chairs trump the bench ones.
Keeping this in mind, makers are launching new SUVs with captain seats. Below we have the list of few 2022 SUVs that will feature captain chairs, and we think you might like to take a look.
1. 2022 Jeep Wagoneer
- Seating Capacity: 8
- MSRP: From $67,995
- Towing Capacity: 10,000 lbs
- Engine: 5.7 L V8
The 2022 Jeep Wagoneer is an upcoming SUV that will be available for sale in American dealerships by the end of 2021.
Wagoneer is said to be an eight-seater with captain seats. The vehicle is equipped with a V8 engine that provides a towing capacity of around 10,000 lbs.
You can get a 2022 Jeep Wagoneer for a starting price of $67,995 only.
2. 2022 Nissan Pathfinder
- Seating Capacity: 7-8
- MSRP: From $33,410
- Towing Capacity: 3,500 to 6,000 lbs
- Engine: 3.5 L V6
When it comes to family rides, how can anyone forget Nissan? Nissan is all set for the upcoming model year with its 2022 Nissan Pathfinder with captain seats.
This SUV is said to have a seating capacity of 7 to 8 people. With good fuel efficiency, appreciative towing capacity, this latest launch can be yours for a starting price of $33,410, which is quite affordable for the class.
Top FAQ Related Best SUVs With Captain Seats
What are captain seats in an SUV?
When in an SUV you have two seats on either side of the car just like the first row, they are referred to as the captain seats.
Bucket seats versus captain chairs: are they the same?
There is hardly any difference between the bucket seats and captain chairs. Most of the time they are used as synonyms to each other.
Captain chairs are basically bucket seats designed for the rear rows within an automobile.
What is the costliest SUV with captain chairs?
As per our research, we found the 2021 BMW X7 the costliest SUV with captain chairs. You will have to pay $74,900 to own the base level trim of the model.
Are there any affordable crossovers with captain seats?
Yes, there are. We found 2021 Kia Sorento and 2021 Hyundai Palisade the most affordable crossovers with captain seats. They cost around $30,000 for the base level.
What are the top SUVs with captain seats 2021?
- 2021 Mazda CX-9
- 2021 BMW X7
- 2021 Kia Sorento
- 2021 Volvo XC90
- 2021 Hyundai Palisade
- 2021 Dodge Durango
- 2021 Chevrolet Suburban
- 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
- 2021 Ford Expedition Max
- 2021 Toyota Highlander
- 2021 GMC Yukon
Do any SUVs have captain seats?
YES. Captain seats are one of the most prominent features that buyers look for while buying an SUV.
Are Captain seats better than bench seats?
Both captain seats and bench seats have their significance. The captain seats provide better seating position, ease, and comfort as compared to bench seats. However, the bench seats offer more seating space to accommodate more people.
Captain seats are a better choice if you seek privacy during your travel and bench seats are all about sharing your space with your fellow travelers.
Thus you can go for the one that serves your purpose better.
Which SUV has the most comfortable seats in 2020?
Below is the list of top SUVs with comfortable seats in 2020:
- Subaru Crosstrek – $22,870.
- Subaru Forester – $25,505.
- Honda CR-V – $25,545.
- Nissan Rogue – $26,245.
- Subaru Outback – $27,655.
- Chevrolet Blazer – $29,995.
- Chevrolet Traverse – $31,125.
- Hyundai Palisade – $32,645.
Has the Toyota Highlander been redesigned in 2021?
The Toyota Highlander got entirely redesigned in 2020. For 2021 the makers have added a new trim level, XSE to the lineup.
The XSE trim level combines the current XLE’s enhancements with the unique chassis upgrades to achieve a more engaging driving experience.
Which Toyota Highlander has captain’s seats?
The Toyota Highlander of the model year 2020 and 2021 comes with the captain’s chairs.
The 2020 model comes with the second-row captain seats, whereas the 2021 model comes with second & third-row captain seats.
What engine is in a GMC Yukon?
The GMC Yukon comes with three optional engines, and the 3.0 L DURAMAX TURBO-DIESEL L-6 ENGINE is now available for the 2021 Model.
The diesel engine is responsive, powerful, smooth, and efficient. You can get the idea as the vehicle can get charged up to 420 hp.
How many miles can a Yukon last?
GMC boats the life expectancy for its 2021 Yukon of 200,000 miles. It means this SUV can last for approximately 13 years based on the average mileage of an American citizen.
But you need to understand that the longevity of a vehicle depends on proper regular maintenance, good driving ethics, and being uptight with your service schedule.
Conclusion
SUVs with captain seats are one of the best ones in the market. If you sulk for space, comfort, and personal space in the car then these sport utility vehicles are your savior.
Explore each one of them with us and make a well-informed decision. If you think we have left anyone out, please let us know in the comments below.
