When you’re looking at used SUVs, you’ll find vehicles of all shapes and sizes, from subcompact crossovers to massive three-row behemoths. If you don’t need a third row of seating to fit all of your passengers but want to make sure that everyone has enough space to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride, there are plenty of great options out there for you. However, searching for that vehicle can be tricky since it’s something of a middle ground. A search for “most spacious” SUVs will likely include several options that cram in more seats than you need, while a look at “two-row” SUVs will include compact options that don’t have the large interior you’re looking for.
In this list, we’ve gathered five models that give a driver and four passengers plenty of elbow room, leg room, and just generally space to breathe. They’ve all been around for at least five years, so you can save some cash by getting a used model. We also made sure to cover a wide range of styles, included features, and price points so that you can see just how diverse this type of SUV can be. Let’s dive in and see what automakers have to offer shoppers looking for a spacious five-seater.
1. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a midsize SUV that debuted in the 2020 model year as a sleeker alternative to the boxy, three-row Atlas. Its athletic styling appeals to drivers who want a vehicle that has a large cabin but doesn’t look bulky from the outside. It can be had with either a turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a V6, both of which offer over 200 hp, so you can accelerate quickly when you need to. With the V6, you can also get a towing package for times when the interior cargo space just won’t cut it.
Since it’s based on an SUV that seats up to seven, the Cross Sport has an interior that’s roomy and gives everyone space to stretch out. But without the third row, the roofline can slope downwards in the back, giving it a more stylish silhouette and a more aerodynamic shape than the Atlas. If you cut into a row of seating in this way, you would leave behind an uncomfortably small amount of headroom. However, in the cargo area, the space near the roof is not as big of a concern since the footprint is the most important element; there’s still enough space in the back to load up on groceries or store plenty of luggage for an airport run.
2. Hyundai Santa Fe
A versatile option that delivers plenty of value, the Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize crossover that’s particularly well-suited for families. It’s been named a Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety many times in recent years, thanks to its crashworthy design and standard suite of driver assistance features like forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. It’s available in several trim levels, each of which provides good bang for your buck with attractive prices and a solid collection of features.
Up front, the Santa Fe’s interior design gives the driver good visibility and plenty of headroom, with a minimalist dashboard layout that’s intuitive to use and doesn’t feel cluttered. Passengers in the back won’t feel cramped either, with plenty of leg room even for tall adults and enough space on the bench seating to actually fit three people comfortably. Behind both rows is an open cargo area that can accommodate everyday things like groceries as well as bulkier items when need be.
3. Honda CR-V
Honda is an automaker with a reputation for making reliable vehicles that last for the long haul, and the CR-V is no exception. Even a model that’s several years old is likely to have plenty of life left to offer. The CR-V is a fuel-efficient choice since it’s a compact crossover that has had an optional hybrid powertrain since the 2020 model year. There are several different trim levels available, ranging from practical and minimalist to decked-out with comfort and convenience features, so the CR-V can appeal to drivers with a diverse range of tastes and budgets.
Its smaller size also makes it easier to park than midsize SUVs, but its well-designed interior still offers plenty of passenger and cargo space. The cabin of the CR-V features supportive front seats that let the driver and front passenger get comfortable, with plenty of headroom to look around in all directions and feel like you have room to breathe while on the road. The luggage space in the back is plentiful for its class, so you can fit a good amount of cargo even if all the seats are occupied.
4. Subaru Outback
Need something that can handle uneven rural roads or even off-road action? The iconic Subaru Outback is a good choice. All-wheel drive comes standard across all trim levels, so you can get improved traction on loose surfaces and rainy days. Roof racks and a solid towing capacity give you storage options that leave plenty of room in the interior and allow you to transport kayaks and Christmas trees without too much trouble. The Outback has always been a practical option at heart, and while it has changed a lot over the years, it’s still a popular choice for families who want a capable and spacious vehicle.
Thanks to its station wagon roots, this SUV has a design that focuses on length rather than height, providing plenty of leg room for those in the front and back. The cargo area also has a large footprint, so you can get all of your camping equipment loaded up for your next outdoor adventure. Newer models have a lifted suspension that gives you the high seating position you’d expect from an SUV, as well as plenty of ground clearance for rolling right over obstacles, both on the trail and on the road.
5. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
One benefit of shopping for a used vehicle is that you can open your options up to include luxury models that would be out of your budget if you were shopping for a new car. Plenty of well-known luxury brands have been offering SUVs in a variety of sizes for years now, including Mercedes-Benz, which has an extensive lineup of crossovers and SUVs. The GLE-class is a midsize option that has a classy aesthetic both inside and out. It is available with plenty of creature comforts, like heated and ventilated seats that work with the climate control system to get your temperature just right on days that are too hot or cold. Powertrain options run the gamut from efficient to powerful, so you can choose an engine and drivetrain that works for your needs.
The GLE-class is available with an optional third row, but it’s pretty tight for anyone other than small children. With the two-row layout, everyone inside gets plenty of room to relax, and the space behind the second row can be fully dedicated to storage, giving you the cargo volume you need to tackle errands and pack for vacations without worrying about running low on space. As a luxury vehicle, this SUV also enhances the interior with premium materials that make the space look upscale and a dashboard layout designed to enhance the spacious cabin’s airy feel.
If you’ve been thinking about moving over to a midsize SUV but have worried about sacrificing space for seating, be comforted; there are plenty of options available for you.
