2027 Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander: A Three-Row SUV Buying Guide

When shoppers start looking for a three-row SUV, the number of seats is only the beginning of the conversation. The real questions are more practical: How comfortable is the third row? Can adults sit back there? How much cargo space remains with all three rows in use? Can the second row be configured for six or seven passengers? And which 2027 Ford Explorer trim offers the best combination of passenger and cargo flexibility? The 2027 Ford Explorer is designed around those questions. Every Explorer model has three rows of seating, and Ford lists a maximum seating capacity of either six or seven occupants depending on the configuration. Second-row captain's chairs are standard, while a second-row bench seat is available on every 2027 Explorer except the Tremor, allowing certain configurations to accommodate seven passengers. That makes the 2027 Explorer more than simply an SUV with an extra row. It is a three-row vehicle designed to give families multiple ways to balance passengers, cargo and everyday usability. 2027 Ford Explorer Seating Capacity: Six or Seven Passengers One of the first things to understand about 2027 Ford Explorer seating is that not every Explorer seats seven people. The standard configuration uses second-row captain's chairs, creating a six-passenger layout. This configuration provides a natural walkway between the second-row seats and gives passengers easier access to the third row. For shoppers who need maximum passenger capacity, an available second-row bench seat creates a seven-passenger configuration on eligible models. Ford states that the second-row bench is available on all 2027 Explorer models except the Tremor. That distinction is important for families. Someone shopping for a three-row SUV should not simply search for "seven-passenger Explorer." They should also determine which second-row configuration they want. 2027 Ford Explorer Seating Configurations Configuration Seating Capacity Second Row Third Row Captain's chairs 6 Two individual seats Standard Second-row bench 7 Three-person bench Standard Tremor 6 Captain's chairs Standard The Tremor is the exception because its second-row captain's chairs are standard, giving it a six-passenger configuration. For many families, six-passenger seating may actually be desirable. Captain's chairs can make it easier for children to access the third row without requiring passengers to climb across a second-row bench. How Much Third-Row Legroom Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Have? This is one of the most important specifications for anyone researching 2027 Ford Explorer third-row seating. Ford lists third-row legroom at 31.8 inches across the 2027 Explorer lineup. Third-row headroom is listed at 38.9 inches. Those measurements put the third row into proper perspective. The Explorer provides: 43.0 inches of front-row legroom on Active and ST-Line 37.5 inches of second-row legroom on Active and ST-Line 31.8 inches of third-row legroom 40.7 inches of front-row headroom 40.5 inches of second-row headroom 38.9 inches of third-row headroom Tremor, Platinum and ST have slightly different second-row measurements, but the third-row legroom and headroom remain listed at 31.8 and 38.9 inches respectively. What Does 31.8 Inches of Third-Row Legroom Mean? Specifications are useful, but shoppers ultimately want to know what they mean in real life. The third row is particularly useful for: Children Teenagers Shorter adults Carpool passengers Occasional adult passengers Families who need additional seating without moving to a larger full-size SUV For a family that frequently carries children in multiple rows, the Explorer's three-row layout can be especially useful. Instead of treating the third row as emergency seating only, families can use it as part of their normal passenger configuration. And when the third row isn't needed, the Explorer's interior can quickly shift from passenger transportation to cargo hauling. 2027 Ford Explorer Cargo Space Behind the Third Row One of the biggest concerns with any three-row SUV is what happens to cargo space when all the seats are occupied. The 2027 Explorer provides 16.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the third row with all seats in place. That matters because three-row SUVs can become surprisingly limited when every seat is occupied. With the Explorer, the space behind the third row can accommodate the everyday items families commonly carry, while folding the rear seating opens substantially more room. Ford lists maximum cargo capacity at: 85.8 cubic feet for Explorer Active 85.8 cubic feet for Explorer ST-Line 85.3 cubic feet for Explorer Tremor 85.3 cubic feet for Explorer Platinum 85.3 cubic feet for Explorer ST That gives the Explorer a useful transformation: it can function as a people mover during the week and a much larger cargo hauler when the rear rows are folded. Which 2027 Ford Explorer Has the Best Third-Row Seating? Because the basic third-row dimensions are shared across the lineup, choosing an Explorer based strictly on third-row measurements doesn't tell the whole story. The differences become more significant when you consider seat configuration, folding functionality and the overall mission of each trim. 2027 Ford Explorer Active The Active provides the foundation of the Explorer lineup while retaining the three-row configuration. It seats six with the standard second-row captain's chairs and can accommodate seven with the available second-row bench. Ford lists 31.8 inches of third-row legroom and 38.9 inches of third-row headroom. For families primarily interested in practical three-row transportation, the Active is an important starting point. 2027 Ford Explorer ST-Line The ST-Line combines the Explorer's three-row practicality with a more performance-inspired appearance. Like the Active, it can seat six or seven depending on the second-row configuration. It also provides 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity. That makes the ST-Line particularly interesting for shoppers who want a family-oriented three-row SUV without giving up a sportier visual character. 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor The Tremor takes the Explorer in a different direction. It seats six because second-row captain's chairs are standard, while its third row remains standard equipment. Ford lists available PowerFold third-row seating for the Tremor. The Tremor therefore represents an interesting combination: an Explorer designed with additional off-road capability while retaining three-row practicality. 2027 Ford Explorer Platinum The Platinum takes the Explorer toward the luxury end of the lineup. Second-row captain's chairs are standard, with the available bench creating a seven-passenger configuration. Importantly for shoppers who frequently change between passenger and cargo configurations, PowerFold third-row seats are standard on Platinum. 2027 Ford Explorer ST The Explorer ST adds performance to the three-row SUV formula. It comes standard with the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 and retains the Explorer's three-row layout. PowerFold third-row seats are standard on the ST, while an available second-row bench can create a seven-passenger configuration. This makes the ST an interesting choice for someone who doesn't want to give up performance simply because they need three rows of seating. Is the 2027 Ford Explorer a Good Family SUV? For many families, the appeal of the Explorer's third row isn't simply the ability to carry more people. It's the ability to change configurations as family needs change. A typical weekday might involve children sitting in the second row while another passenger occupies the third row. On another day, the third row might be folded to make room for groceries, sports equipment or luggage. The Explorer's three-row design provides that flexibility without requiring the owner to drive a full-size SUV. Its 119.1-inch wheelbase and 198.7-inch overall length give the Explorer substantial interior volume while maintaining a footprint that remains firmly in the midsize SUV category. That combination is one of the reasons three-row SUVs have become such an important category for families. Can Adults Sit in the Third Row of the 2027 Ford Explorer? The answer depends heavily on the individual passenger. The 2027 Explorer's third row provides 31.8 inches of legroom and 38.9 inches of headroom. For children and teenagers, that space can be particularly useful. Smaller adults can also use the third row, particularly for shorter trips. For larger adults on long journeys, however, the third row should be evaluated personally. Body size, seating position and the amount of second-row adjustment available can all affect perceived comfort. That's an important point for dealership SEO content: don't simply tell shoppers that a vehicle has a third row. Help them understand who that third row is designed to accommodate. That type of useful information is far more valuable than repeating "three-row SUV" throughout an article. 2027 Ford Explorer Third Row vs. Second Row The Explorer demonstrates why three-row SUVs require a compromise between passenger capacity and space. The front row provides the greatest amount of legroom, followed by the second row and then the third row. For Active and ST-Line models, Ford lists: Front row: 43.0 inches of legroom Second row: 37.5 inches Third row: 31.8 inches This makes the second row an especially important part of the Explorer's overall passenger experience. With captain's chairs, second-row passengers have individual seats and a passageway toward the third row. With the available bench, the Explorer gains another seating position. The choice ultimately comes down to whether the buyer prioritizes maximum passenger capacity or easier movement between rows. 2027 Ford Explorer Third-Row Seating and Cargo: The Real Advantage Perhaps the most compelling feature of the Explorer's three-row design is not the third row itself. It is what happens when you don't need it. With all seats in place, the Explorer has 16.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the third row. Fold the rear seating, and maximum cargo capacity increases to as much as 85.8 cubic feet on Active and ST-Line models. That makes the Explorer adaptable to completely different situations. Family road trip: Three rows of passengers plus luggage. School carpool: Multiple passengers without sacrificing the entire cargo area. Grocery run: Third row available when needed, cargo area available when it isn't. Home improvement trip: Fold the rear seats and use the Explorer as a cargo hauler. Weekend adventure: Carry people, equipment and supplies in the same vehicle. This is where the Explorer's third-row design becomes more than a specification. It becomes a tool for changing how the vehicle is used. 2027 Ford Explorer Third-Row Seating: Frequently Asked Questions Does every 2027 Ford Explorer have a third row? Yes. Ford states that all 2027 Explorer models have third-row seats. How many people can the 2027 Ford Explorer seat? The 2027 Explorer can seat six or seven people depending on the model and configuration. Captain's chairs provide six-passenger seating, while an available second-row bench provides seven-passenger seating on eligible models. Does the 2027 Ford Explorer have seven seats? Yes, certain configurations have seven seats. The available second-row bench provides the additional seating position. The Tremor is limited to six seats because captain's chairs are standard. How much legroom does the 2027 Ford Explorer third row have? Ford lists 31.8 inches of third-row legroom across the 2027 Explorer lineup. How much headroom does the third row have? The 2027 Explorer provides 38.9 inches of third-row headroom. How much cargo space is behind the third row? The 2027 Explorer has 16.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the third row with all seats in place. Which Explorer has PowerFold third-row seats? PowerFold third-row seats are standard on the 2027 Explorer ST and Platinum. They are available on the Tremor. Is the 2027 Explorer good for families? Its combination of three rows, six- or seven-passenger configurations, flexible cargo space and available seating configurations makes the Explorer particularly relevant to shoppers looking for a midsize three-row SUV. The best configuration depends on passenger needs, cargo requirements and preferred equipment. The Bottom Line on 2027 Ford Explorer Third-Row Seating The 2027 Ford Explorer third row is an important part of what makes the SUV so versatile. Every Explorer has three rows, shoppers can choose between six- and seven-passenger configurations on eligible trims, and Ford provides 31.8 inches of third-row legroom and 38.9 inches of third-row headroom. More importantly, the Explorer doesn't force owners to choose permanently between passenger space and cargo space. With 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and as much as 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity on Active and ST-Line models, the interior can adapt as the demands of the day change.

When shopping for a new SUV, what happens inside the vehicle can be just as important as what happens under the hood. The 2027 Ford Explorer interior is designed around the idea that an SUV should be able to accommodate much more than a daily commute. It needs to be comfortable enough for the family, flexible enough for changing plans, connected enough for modern life and inviting enough to make long drives something to look forward to. The 2027 Ford Explorer brings those qualities together in a cabin designed for versatility. With three rows of seating, modern technology, thoughtful storage and available premium comfort features, the Explorer gives drivers an interior that can adapt to everyday errands, family responsibilities, road trips and weekend adventures. A 2027 Ford Explorer Interior Designed Around Your Life The biggest advantage of the Ford Explorer interior is its flexibility. An SUV doesn't have to be used the same way every day, and the Explorer is designed to accommodate that reality. One day, you might need comfortable seating for family and friends. The next, you may need additional room for shopping, sports equipment, luggage or supplies. The Explorer's three-row configuration gives you the flexibility to adjust the cabin around what your day requires. That makes the Explorer especially appealing to consumers who don't want to outgrow their vehicle quickly. Instead of buying an SUV designed around one specific need, you're getting an interior that can change along with your lifestyle. Three Rows of Seating for Everyday Versatility The 2027 Ford Explorer seats up to seven people, depending on configuration, giving families and active drivers the passenger capacity they often need. Ford also offers second-row seating configurations designed to make getting into the third row easier. That flexibility can make a major difference in everyday life. Children can have their own space. Friends can come along for the weekend. Extended family can fit comfortably when needed. And when you don't need all three rows, the rear seating can be configured to provide additional flexibility for carrying the things that are part of your lifestyle. It's this ability to transition between passengers and personal belongings that makes the Explorer more than simply a three-row SUV. It's an interior designed to adapt. Comfort for the Driver and Passengers A vehicle becomes part of your daily routine, so comfort matters. The 2027 Ford Explorer interior is designed to provide an inviting environment whether you're making a short trip around town or spending hours on the highway. Available features include heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seating and premium seating materials, depending on configuration. A heated steering wheel is also available, adding another touch of comfort when temperatures drop. For drivers who spend significant time behind the wheel, these features can transform the driving experience. Instead of simply getting from one destination to another, the Explorer creates an environment where you and your passengers can settle in and enjoy the journey. Technology Is Front and Center One of the most noticeable aspects of the 2027 Ford Explorer interior is its technology. Ford Digital Experience incorporates a 13.2-inch center display, while a 12.3-inch instrument cluster provides important information directly in front of the driver. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility make it easier to integrate your smartphone into your driving experience. This technology is designed to make the cabin feel connected to the way you already live. Navigation, entertainment, communication and other connected functions can be accessed without making your vehicle feel overloaded with complicated controls. For today's drivers, that kind of connectivity has become an important part of what makes an SUV feel modern. Connectivity for Every Row Modern families don't necessarily agree on what to listen to, watch or do during a trip. Fortunately, the Explorer is designed with passengers throughout the cabin in mind. Ford provides USB connectivity throughout the first, second and third rows, helping keep passengers' devices charged during daily drives and longer journeys. Available features such as a 110-volt/150-watt AC outlet can provide additional flexibility for keeping compatible devices powered. For families, that can be a surprisingly valuable feature. Keeping phones and other devices charged means fewer distractions and fewer complaints when you're traveling together. An Interior Built for Road Trips The Explorer's interior becomes particularly appealing when you consider how much time families spend in their vehicles. Long-distance travel requires more than comfortable seats. You want an interior where passengers can stay connected, where everyone has access to convenient storage and charging, and where the driver has easy access to the information needed for the journey. Available features such as premium audio, heated and ventilated seating, panoramic roof options and advanced connectivity can make the Explorer feel less like transportation and more like a comfortable space to spend time. The 2027 Ford Explorer interior is therefore well suited to the family road trip. Whether you're heading across town or across the country, the cabin is designed to make the miles more enjoyable. Make the Interior Your Own Another advantage of the Explorer is the ability to select an interior configuration that matches your priorities. Some buyers may place the greatest emphasis on passenger comfort. Others may want premium materials and upgraded technology. Some may want a panoramic roof that brings additional light into the cabin, while others may prioritize features designed for active lifestyles. Available features include a Panoramic Vista Roof with power shade, premium seating materials, ambient lighting and upgraded audio systems, depending on configuration. This gives shoppers the opportunity to build an Explorer that feels appropriate for the way they actually use their vehicle. A Cabin That Works for Families The best family SUV isn't necessarily the one with the longest list of features. It's the one that makes everyday life easier. The 2027 Ford Explorer is designed with that philosophy in mind. Three rows give families flexibility. Multiple seating configurations allow the cabin to adapt. Available comfort features make longer drives easier. Modern connectivity helps keep everyone entertained. And thoughtful technology gives the driver the information and controls needed throughout the journey. Those details may not seem important when you're sitting in a showroom, but they can become some of the features you appreciate most after owning the vehicle. The 2027 Ford Explorer Interior Is Ready for More The biggest selling point of the 2027 Ford Explorer interior may ultimately be its versatility. This is an SUV that can accommodate your morning commute, your afternoon errands, your children's activities, a weekend road trip and the unexpected situations that come with everyday life. Its interior is designed to change with you rather than force you to change the way you use your vehicle. For consumers considering a new three-row SUV, that flexibility can be a major reason to choose the Explorer. The 2027 Ford Explorer isn't simply designed to give you more seats. It's designed to give you more possibilities. With a comfortable, connected and adaptable interior, the Explorer gives today's drivers the space and versatility they need to make every journey—big or small—more enjoyable. If you're shopping for an SUV that can keep up with your lifestyle today while giving you room for whatever comes next, the 2027 Ford Explorer deserves a place at the top of your list.

When you're looking for an SUV that can keep up with everything life throws your way, the 2027 Ford Explorer is built to make a strong impression. Combining the space and flexibility today's families need with the technology, comfort and performance modern drivers expect, the Explorer is designed to fit naturally into a wide variety of lifestyles. Whether you're commuting to work, taking the family across town, heading out on a road trip or simply looking for a vehicle that gives you more freedom, the Explorer offers the versatility to make every drive more enjoyable. Built Around Your Lifestyle One of the biggest advantages of choosing a 2027 Ford Explorer is its ability to adapt. Your vehicle may serve as a daily commuter during the week and become the starting point for a weekend adventure just a few days later. The Explorer is designed with that kind of flexibility in mind. Its SUV design provides the elevated driving position many drivers appreciate, while the thoughtfully designed interior gives passengers a comfortable place to spend time. With multiple seating configurations and a versatile cabin, the Explorer can accommodate changing needs as your family, activities and priorities evolve. That versatility is what makes the Explorer appealing to such a broad range of drivers. You don't have to purchase a vehicle specifically for one purpose. Instead, you can choose an SUV that is ready for everyday errands, family responsibilities, long-distance travel and spontaneous adventures. Confidence Behind the Wheel A great SUV should make driving feel comfortable and confident, and the 2027 Ford Explorer is designed with that goal in mind. Its combination of responsive performance, available all-wheel-drive capability and advanced driving technologies gives drivers the tools they need to feel prepared for a variety of road conditions. The Explorer also provides the kind of road presence many SUV shoppers are looking for. You get the commanding perspective of an SUV without giving up the maneuverability and everyday usability that make the vehicle practical for daily driving. For the driver, that can translate into a more enjoyable experience every time you get behind the wheel. Whether you're navigating busy city streets or settling in for a longer highway drive, the Explorer is designed to make the journey feel easier. A Comfortable Place for Everyone A vehicle becomes an important part of everyday life, which makes interior comfort especially important. The 2027 Ford Explorer interior is designed to give both drivers and passengers an inviting environment for everything from short trips to extended road journeys. Modern seating, thoughtful storage solutions and available premium features help create an interior that feels appropriate for both everyday driving and special occasions. The three-row SUV configuration also gives the Explorer the flexibility that many growing families and active households are looking for. And because your passengers aren't always going to be the same people, versatility matters. The Explorer can accommodate family members, friends, coworkers and whatever else your day requires. Technology That Fits Into Your Life Today's SUV buyers expect technology to be more than an added feature—they want it to make their lives easier. The 2027 Ford Explorer brings modern connectivity and convenience features designed to keep drivers informed, entertained and connected while on the road. An intuitive technology experience can make everything from navigating an unfamiliar area to enjoying your favorite music more convenient. Available advanced driver-assistance features can also provide additional confidence when you're dealing with traffic, parking and the challenges of everyday driving. The result is an SUV that feels ready for the way people drive today. Instead of technology getting in the way, the Explorer is designed to make technology work for you. Ready for Family Life—and Beyond For many consumers, versatility is one of the most important reasons to choose an SUV. The 2027 Ford Explorer delivers that versatility without requiring you to compromise on the things that make driving enjoyable. It can be the vehicle that takes the kids to school in the morning, gets you to work in the afternoon and takes the entire family somewhere new over the weekend. It can provide the comfort you want during a long road trip while giving you the flexibility you need when your plans change. That's an important advantage. When you invest in a vehicle, you want to know that it will continue to work for you as your needs change. The Explorer is designed to provide that kind of long-term usefulness. A Ford SUV Designed to Do More The 2027 Ford Explorer represents what many consumers want from a modern SUV: versatility, comfort, capability, technology and an enjoyable driving experience all in one vehicle. Rather than being designed around a single type of driver, the Explorer is intended to appeal to people with different priorities and different lifestyles. It gives you the flexibility to make the vehicle your own and use it in the ways that matter most to you. For shoppers considering their next SUV, that flexibility can be a major advantage. The Explorer gives you a vehicle that feels just as appropriate for everyday responsibilities as it does for the adventures you haven't planned yet. Make the 2027 Ford Explorer Your Next SUV If you're ready to move into a vehicle that offers more versatility without sacrificing comfort or modern features, the 2027 Ford Explorer deserves a place on your shopping list. Its combination of passenger-friendly design, advanced technology, confident performance and flexible interior makes it an SUV that can fit naturally into your everyday life. The right SUV should do more than get you from one destination to another. It should make it easier to take on whatever comes next—and the 2027 Ford Explorer is designed to do exactly that.