Searching for extra space to haul the kids, the in-laws, and maybe even the dog? Ford’s lineup of third-row SUVs might just save your family outings (and your sanity). These spacious family-haulers come in various sizes and configurations, each with its own character and capabilities. Let’s check out what these roomy people-movers bring to the table for when you need those extra seats.
Ford Explorer
The Explorer stands as Ford’s go-to family SUV, seating seven comfortably while offering flexibility. Fold down the rear seats and you’ll find about 87 cubic feet of cargo room — plenty for hauling sports equipment or college move-in supplies. It’s a practical solution whether you’re moving people or large items.
The Ford Explorer lineup offers something for every family type. Driving enthusiasts might appreciate the ST trim with its 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine pushing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. It’s a family hauler that doesn’t sacrifice driving fun, giving parents a performance option amid their practical needs.
The Explorer’s tech features keep everyone happy on long drives. The centerpiece is a 13.2-inch touch screen with Google integration and Alexa Built-in, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Add the optional 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system for premium audio quality. Safety isn’t overlooked either — the 2024 model earned an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+ rating, giving you extra peace of mind.
Ford Expedition
For maximum family space, the Ford Expedition delivers in a big way. Available in standard (210 inches) and MAX (221.9 inches) versions, it offers cavernous interior room. The standard 2025 model provides 108.5 cubic feet behind the first row, and for MAX models, you’ll get a massive 123.1 cubic feet behind the first row.
Power matches the Expedition’s size. When properly equipped, it tows up to 9,600 pounds, perfect for families with boats or campers. Ford offers three engine choices, with the top version generating 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This means the big SUV moves confidently even when fully loaded with passengers and luggage.
With nearly 9 inches of ground clearance, the Expedition handles off-road situations with ease. Inside, there’s comfortable seating for eight adults, no squeezing required. The cabin includes plenty of charging ports throughout, preventing the dreaded dead-device drama on long trips. With the Ford Expedition’s third row, it’s built for modern families who value space, comfort and capability.
Ford Flex (Discontinued)
Though Ford stopped making the Flex years ago, this unique SUV maintains a cult following on used car lots nationwide. Its funky, refrigerator-like styling wasn’t just a fashion statement (though it certainly turned heads in school pickup lines). That boxy shape translated into incredible interior space, with seating for seven that provided adults easier access to the third row. The flat roof meant even rear passengers enjoyed decent headroom; parents with teenagers particularly appreciated this design since growing kids didn’t become cramped over time.
The wagon-like Flex broke the SUV mold with its ground-hugging stance. Sitting several inches lower than typical SUVs, it drove more like a car than a top-heavy truck. Parallel parking anxiety and garage clearance issues were minimized, and its lower center of gravity also meant less of that tippy feeling around corners. For families who need three rows but hate the idea of driving something that handles like a school bus, a preowned Flex still represents a great option.
Ford Explorer vs. Expedition: Which Is Right for You?
Stuck between these two Ford giants? Your specific needs will point you in the right direction. Take a quick glance at how their 2025 models stack up:
| Feature | Ford Explorer | Ford Expedition |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | Up to seven | Up to eight |
| Cargo Space (behind first row) | 85.8 cubic feet | 108.5 cubic feet |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 pounds | Up to 9,600 pounds |
| Fuel Economy (rear-wheel drive) | 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway | 16 mpg city / 24 mpg highway |
| Starting MSRP | $39,785 | $62,000 |
| J.D. Power Reliability Rating | 87/100 | 75/100 |
The Explorer is a strong candidate for many families. It’s more fuel-efficient than the Expedition, making it cheaper to run. Its manageable size means easier parking, while the Ford Explorer’s third-row legroom (32.2 inches) works well for kids and occasional adult use. The Explorer’s solid J.D. Power reliability score and lower starting price add to its appeal for practical family use.
The Expedition makes sense for larger families or when you need maximum space. Its roomy interior accommodates adults comfortably in all three rows. For serious hauling, its towing capacity significantly outperforms the Explorer’s limit. Yes, you’ll pay more at the time of purchase and at the pump, but the extra space often justifies these costs for families who need it.
Discover Your Perfect Ford SUV Today
Both the Explorer and Expedition bring their A-game for families needing that extra row of seats. Nothing beats sitting in all three rows yourself and seeing if your family fits comfortably. Head over to our Jim Burke Ford dealership in Bakersfield to check out our selection in person. Our team can walk you through the differences, answer any questions, and set you up with a test-drive. Bring the whole gang along — after all, they’ll be riding in it too.
white suv on brown grass field under white clouds during daytime by Ryan is licensed with Unsplash License
