The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV with 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space with all the seats up, 47.9 cubic feet with the third-row seats lowered, and 87.8 cubic feet of storage space with the second and third rows of seats folded down. Starting at $33,245, the Explorer is on par with most vehicles in its class. Car and Driver gave the Ford Explorer a 7.5/10 rating.

Whether you’re taking a family camping trip or driving your sports team to the next game, an SUV is an excellent choice. The Ford Explorer is a versatile SUV with lots of room in the cargo hold, even if all three rows of seats are in use. However, it’s a good idea to consider what the Explorer’s cargo area looks like before you go ahead and make the big purchase.

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Ford Explorer car insurance costs

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How is trunk space measured?

Measuring a vehicle’s cargo hold may seem straightforward—but there are a lot of other factors that go into how much space is actually usable in the back of a vehicle.

Generally, a manufacturer will provide two or even three separate measurements to give customers an idea of how much cargo space is available:

Cargo volume with the rear seats in the upright position: this applies to the area behind the rear seats

Cargo volume with the rear seats in the folded or stowed position: this measures the space behind the upright front or second-row seats

To determine this measurement, the manufacturer takes the height, width, and depth of the cargo area into account—even the space up by the roof and any wells or depressions in the floor.

This number can be tricky, however, since it doesn’t convey the shape of the cargo area. Curved surfaces or irregularities in the structure of the vehicle can cut into the cargo area and make packing awkward. Things like wheel wells, built-in consoles or vents, and bumps from the stowed rear seats can contribute to irregularities.

MORE:

The 10 most expensive SUVs to insure

It’s also important to keep in mind how many passengers you usually have in your vehicle—if every seat is in use, you won’t be able to take advantage of the more spacious cargo hold measurements.

Key Takeaway The measurements from the manufacturer won’t give you a clear picture of what the cargo space looks like. It’s best to take a look for yourself and see if the cargo area is suited for your needs.

Ford Explorer trunk space

Number of seats: Up to 7

Cargo volume with both rear seat rows up: 18.2 cubic feet

Cargo volume with the third row of rear seats down: 47.9 cubic feet

Cargo volume with both rear seat rows down: 87.8 cubic feet

The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV with up to seven seats. If you opt for the model with a pair of captain’s chairs in the second row, you’re looking at a six-seater. A bench-style seat in both rows will provide a maximum of seven seats.

Since the Ford Explorer has three rows of seats, the manufacturer provides a measurement for each configuration of seats: with both rows upright, the third row folded down, and all of the rear rows folded down. All of the measurements are above what the average midsize SUV offers.

How does the Ford Explorer’s trunk space compare to other SUVs?

One of the Ford Explorer’s best features is the amount of cargo space. It’s above other midsize SUVs in this area, beating out the

Mazda CX-9

and the

GMC Acadia

. If you’re looking for something with more storage, the

Honda Pilot

and the

Chevrolet Traverse

are worth checking out.

MORE: 8 pro tips for long car rides with kids

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How to check trunk space

If you’re considering purchasing an SUV, it’s always a good idea to arrange to see the vehicle in person. That way, you can evaluate the cargo area and make sure it’s a good fit for you and your storage needs.

Even though the manufacturer provides a measurement for the cargo area, you can use a tape measure to make sure that the curves and irregularities in the cargo hold won’t affect how much you can fit inside. Visualizing your usual gear or suitcases in the space can help determine if the SUV has enough room.

You can also bring boxes, suitcases, or other bags to try out in the cargo area. Taking photos of the items in the SUV can give you a better idea of what will fit and what won’t. It’s also worth folding down both rows of seats and removing the storage panels in the floor so you get the full experience of the available space.

All of these suggestions can help you decide which SUV works best for you.

How to find affordable car insurance

Since you’re looking at buying a new vehicle, why not consider changing your insurance plan as well?

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