If you need a spacious, family-friendly SUV, the Ford Explorer with third-row seating is a great option. With room for seven passengers, flexible cargo space, and modern features, it can handle everything, including school drop-offs and road trips. Whether you’re looking for a Ford Explorer with a third row for sale or want to know more about its comfort and practicality, our team at John Kennedy Ford Feasterville can tell you everything you need to know.
An Overview of the Ford Explorer
The 2025 Ford Explorer SUV continues to be an excellent choice for families. With a modern design, updated technology, and reliable performance, this Ford three-row SUV remains a go-to option if you need extra seating. The Explorer offers a choice of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a twin-turbo V-6, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Ford Explorer’s Seating Capacity
The Ford Explorer third-row seating configuration provides enough space for large families or those who frequently travel with extra passengers. Depending on the trim level, you can choose between a second-row bench seat for seven occupants or captain’s chairs for a six-passenger layout. Either way, the third row adds versatility and convenience to your drives.
The 2025 Ford Explorer Trims
The 2025 Ford Explorer offers different trim levels to match your needs. All have three rows, with trim-specific options for seating arrangements and luxury upgrades. Whether you want something practical, sporty, or luxurious, there’s an Explorer for you.
The Active
The entry-level Active trim gets the range off to a promising start. Its attractions include:
- A starting MSRP of $39,855
- A 300-horsepower 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine
- Rear-wheel drive (or optional intelligent four-wheel drive)
- Six selectable drive modes
- A 5,000-pound towing capacity
- A 13.2-inch touch screen with Ford Digital Experience
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- First-row heated seats
- Three-row seating for seven passengers
The ST-Line
If you require more luxury and technology, the Ford Explorer ST-Line, starting at an MSRP of $44,615, provides it with:
- Black exterior accents and exclusive ST-Line badging
- 20-inch ebony machined-painted aluminum wheels
- Second-row heated seats
- A Bang & Olufsen sound system with 10 speakers
- A 360-degree camera
- Remote start
- Available BlueCruise hands-free driving
The Platinum
Starting at a $52,250 MSRP, the 2025 Explorer Platinum offers:
- Satin chrome exterior accents
- Adaptive headlamps
- 20-inch luster nickel-painted aluminum wheels
- Leather seating with tri-diamond micro-perforated inserts
- A twin-panel sunroof
- A power-folding third row
The ST
The top-of-the-range ST delivers the ultimate in performance and luxury. For a starting MSRP of $54,260, you get:
- Second-row captain’s seats with E-Z Entry (reduces the seating capacity to six)
- A 400-horsepower 3.0L EcoBoost V-6 engine
- Sport-tuned suspension and performance brakes
- Quad chrome exhaust tips
- 21-inch magnetite-painted aluminum wheels
- Heated and ventilated front seats with Active Motion massage
- A wireless charging pad
- PowerFold third-row seats
Notable Previous Models With Third-Row Seating
If you’re considering a used Ford Explorer with third-row seating, earlier models also provide great options.
The 2017 Ford Explorer
The 2017 Explorer features power-folding third-row seats, simplifying passenger and cargo space adjustments. Ford improved the LATCH system for child seats for this model year, making it easier to secure car seats properly. The third row isn’t the roomiest for adults, but it’s still a valuable option for families needing extra seats.
The 2018 Ford Explorer
The 2018 Ford Explorer has a third-row bench seat that folds down in a 50/50 split. For more flexibility, you could swap the standard seven-seat setup for a six-seat layout by choosing second-row captain’s chairs. The power-folding third-row seats make it easy to free up cargo space with the push of a button.
The 2020 Ford Explorer
In 2020, Ford made the Explorer’s third row easier to access and slightly more spacious. The standard setup, with a second-row bench, accommodates seven passengers, while optional captain’s chairs bring the capacity down to six. Although adults can squeeze into the third row for short trips, it’s more comfortable for kids.
The Advantages of Third-Row Seating in the Ford Explorer
Having third-row seating in an SUV makes a big difference in your daily life. Many factors make the Ford Explorer stand out.
Comfort and Space
The Ford Explorer’s third-row legroom offers enough room for kids and even some adults. The dimensions are:
- Headroom: 38.9 inches
- Legroom: 32.2 inches
- Shoulder room: 54.6 inches
- Hip room: 40.9 inches
These figures, the seating materials, and the design ensure a comfortable ride for all your third-row passengers.
Flexibility and Convenience
The third row folds down easily when you need more cargo space. The ST trim’s PowerFold function lets you create extra storage with the push of a button. Whether you need room for seven passengers, are loading up for a trip, or are making room for groceries, the Explorer’s flexible seating makes life easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ford Explorer’s Third Row
Is It Easy To Access the Third Row?
The Explorer makes third-row access simple. The second-row seats have an E-Z Entry function that moves them forward with a single button press, allowing you to get in and out without effort.
Which Safety Features Do the Third-Row Seats Include?
The third row has LATCH connectors for child seats, making it a safe option for families. The Safety Canopy system provides extra protection in side-impact crashes or rollovers by deploying airbags along the side windows.
Is the Third Row Suitable for Adults or Just Children?
While the third row is comfortable for kids, it can accommodate adults for shorter trips. Taller passengers may find the legroom a bit limited, but it’s still a functional space for extra seating.
Check Out the Ford Explorer’s Third-Row Seating Today
If you’re interested in a new or used Ford Explorer with seven seats or require a Ford service, look no further than our John Kennedy Ford Feasterville dealership. Our range of models is extensive, and our team can help you find the right one for your needs. Visit us in Feasterville, Pennsylvania, today, or contact us to schedule a test-drive.

