The Ford Explorer and the Ford Expedition both have a third row, so the whole crew can ride together. The Explorer seats up to seven, and the Expedition seats up to eight on most trims. Ford’s other SUVs, including the Bronco Sport and Bronco, seat five. Here is how the two three-row options compare for life in Northeast Ohio.
| SUV | Seating | Size | Engine highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Explorer | Up to 7 | Midsize, about 198.7 inches long | 2.3L EcoBoost (300 hp), ST with 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (400 hp) |
| Expedition | Up to 8 (7 on the King Ranch) | Full-size, about 209.9 inches long | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp), 440 hp on the Tremor |
Seating varies by trim and configuration, so our team can confirm the layout on any SUV you like.
Explorer: The Everyday Three-Row
The Explorer is the right-sized three-row SUV for many Summit County families. It fits easily into school pickup lines in Norton, grocery store lots in Fairlawn and driveways in Copley and Barberton. Trims run from the Active and ST-Line to the Platinum, the adventure-ready Tremor and the performance-minded ST. If your household includes kids, grandparents or a regular carpool to Friday night football, the Explorer delivers the extra seats in a footprint smaller than a full-size SUV.
Expedition: Room for Everyone
The Expedition is the largest Ford SUV, with a roomy cabin and seating for up to eight on most trims. A 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivers 400 horsepower, and the Tremor lifts that to 440. Ford has also offered a longer MAX version, and our team can tell you whether one is on the lot. It suits families who tow a boat to Lake Erie, haul gear to the Portage Lakes or road trip to Columbus and Pittsburgh with the whole crew.
Choosing Between Seven and Eight Seats
- Choose the Explorer for easier parking around downtown Akron
- Choose the Expedition when six or more people ride regularly
- Choose the Expedition if you tow a boat or camper
- Bring your family to a test drive and climb into the third row together
Winter coats and hockey gear take up room, so bring your child seats and bags to see how the cargo space handles your real routine. Ask about all-wheel and four-wheel drive options for lake-effect snow, and check how the second row folds to open the walkway to the back. Smaller families can compare the Bronco Sport and Bronco in our Bronco vs. Bronco Sport guide.
Shop Three-Row Fords in Barberton
Browse our Explorer inventory and Expedition inventory, then read our Explorer vs. Expedition guide or our SUV size guide. Check new vehicle specials, explore financing or schedule a test drive.
FAQs
Which Ford SUVs have a third row?
The Explorer and the Expedition. The Explorer seats up to seven, and the Expedition seats up to eight on most trims, with seven on the King Ranch.
Does the Ford Bronco have a third row?
The Bronco seats five and is built for off-road adventure. For a third row, compare the Explorer and Expedition on our lot.
Which three-row Ford is better for towing?
The Expedition, thanks to its larger frame and 400-horsepower EcoBoost V6. Towing ratings depend on engine, drivetrain and equipment, so our team can check the numbers for the SUV you choose.
Which one is easier to park in town?
The Explorer. It is about eleven inches shorter than the Expedition, which helps in parking decks and tight driveways.
Is the third row comfortable for adults?
Comfort depends on the passenger and the trip. The best way to judge is to climb into the third row during a test drive.