An SUV typically has more cargo space than you’d find in a sedan, so families gravitate toward these cars. 3-row SUVs offer the highest seating capacity, but their cargo space is limited with each seat in use.
2-row SUVs are perfect for the average family of five because everyone and their belongings can fit inside. Here are the 10 models with the highest storage capacities behind the rear seats, according to testing regimens from Cars.com. The site’s measurements are based on the total usable storage space rather than the official manufacturer’s specifications.
10. Audi SQ8
The Audi SQ8 is a rapid diesel SUV. SQ8 gets V8 diesel engine with two turbos and an electric compressor >> https://t.co/Hd1bxExPbe pic.twitter.com/wIXyOz9X5r
— Top Gear (@BBC_TopGear) June 25, 2019
Cars.com says the Audi SQ8 has approximately 20.2 cu-ft of space behind the second row. A power liftgate is included on each trim, and the loading floor can be lowered if you have the available air suspension equipped.
9. Jeep Grand Cherokee

2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee | Stellantis
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is tied with the next two vehicles, offering 20.3 cu-ft of backseat space. Its elevated height might be intimidating if you’re loading heavier items, but the opening itself is wide and easy to access. It also has chrome tie-downs inside, and a power liftgate on the tested Summit Reserve trim.
8. Cadillac XT5
Beautifully crafted. Boldly redefined. The 2020 Cadillac #XT5. pic.twitter.com/VHyD93bK90
— Cadillac (@Cadillac) July 25, 2019
The XT5’s cargo area has rails that you can use to secure items or hang grocery bags. In addition to a power liftgate, a touch-free opening system is available for the Cadillac XT5. The liftgate has a sensor that will detect whenever you wave a foot or hand in front of it, opening momentarily afterward.
7. BMW iX
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— MotorWeek (@MotorWeek) December 2, 2022
This model has a standard power liftgate and a huge storage compartment underneath the load floor. While it’s an EV, the BMW iX doesn’t have a frunk for extra storage.
6. Honda Passport
Review: The 2022 Honda Passport TrailSport trucks uphttps://t.co/4Wanert6gb
— Fox News (@FoxNews) May 30, 2022
The Passport provides 20.6 cu-ft of storage space behind its back row, plus a standard power tailgate and liftgate. There are also a few storage compartments underneath the load floor that can hold smaller items. The Trailsport model tested by Cars.com also has roof rails that you can utilize for bikes, canoes, and similar items.
5. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
This SUV has 20.7 cu-ft of cargo area with each seat in use. Total cargo capacity is smaller than the larger Atlas, but both SUVs are just as wide. A touch-free opening system and a power liftgate are offered on higher trims.
4. Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage has nearly 22 cu-ft of storage if you need to keep every seat upright. It also has tie-down hooks and extra storage boxes integrated into the side of the cargo area. A power liftgate costs extra.
3. Ford Bronco
The 2023 @Ford Bronco Sport's new off-road package brings added toughness: https://t.co/8FvWxG2HrQ pic.twitter.com/rHBSOMAqY6
— Car and Driver (@CARandDRIVER) December 2, 2022
Each Ford Bronco has 22.3 cu-ft of space behind the second row. The tailgate has two panels that you can pull outward instead of lifting the hatch traditionally.
This can be troublesome if your Ford Bronco has a soft-top roof, though its prop rod makes access somewhat easier. An optional storage system can be attached to the tailgate. Ford also offers a locked security drawer with multiple compartments that can be easily installed under the load floor.
2. Genesis GV80 (2-row)
The GV80 has 23.5 cu-ft of storage capacity with each seat in use. It has a standard power liftgate and a hands-free opening system. There’s a storage compartment underneath the load floor for the privacy cover, but you could also use it for anything else.
1. Hyundai Santa Fe
You’ll get 25.3 cu-ft of space behind the Santa Fe’s rear row, plus some extra compartments under the load floor. Tie-downs are also included, and you can get both a hands-free opening system and a power liftgate on higher trims.