SUVs have become synonymous with versatility, and fold-flat seats exemplify this feature. These adaptable seating arrangements allow owners to expand cargo space quickly and easily, making SUVs the ultimate tools for everyday utility and weekend adventures.
Whether transporting furniture, sports gear, or camping equipment, fold-flat seats provide the flexibility to transition from family haulers to cargo carriers seamlessly. Models from premium brands like Genesis, Volvo, and Lexus all offer this functionality, with some even allowing front passenger seat folding for additional room.
This article explores top-rated SUVs with fold-flat seating, based on performance, cargo capacity, comfort, and overall value.
1. Volvo XC60: Scandinavian Practicality Meets Premium Finish
The 2025 Volvo XC60 exemplifies Swedish design—stylish, sophisticated, and supremely functional. With a starting price of $47,050, this five-seater features a hybridized 2.0-liter engine for improved fuel economy.
The XC60’s second-row seats fold manually via a lever, expanding cargo space to 63.3 cubic feet. Though the seats aren’t power-operated, power-folding rear head restraints ease the transition.
Inside, the cabin is spacious and refined, making it an ideal choice for urban families or professionals. The XC60 encourages a calm, composed driving style, offering comfort and efficiency while still delivering on the premium promise expected of Volvo vehicles.
2. Lexus NX Hybrid: Efficiency with Family-Friendly Features
The 2025 Lexus NX Hybrid strikes a balance between sustainability and convenience. With an 8.8 BuzzScore and starting just above $45,000, it offers value through a hybrid drivetrain, plush cabin, and intuitive tech.
Standout features include power-folding rear seats and a 60/40 split-bench, enabling a flexible switch between passenger and cargo configurations.
This functionality makes the NX Hybrid a strong option for those seeking a compact SUV that doesn’t compromise on luxury or practicality. Families will appreciate the quick and painless seat conversion for school runs, grocery hauls, or spontaneous road trips.
3. Lexus RX: Midsize Muscle with Fold-Flat Functionality
A step up in size, the 2025 Lexus RX builds on the NX’s strengths by offering more power and space. Powered by a 275-horsepower turbocharged engine, it provides 29.6 cubic feet of storage behind the second row and up to 46.2 when folded flat.
The RX features power-folding 40/20/40 rear seats, accessible via the touchscreen or trunk buttons, making it simple to customize interior space. With plush materials, a quiet cabin, and a smooth ride, the RX is ideal for families needing upscale functionality without stepping into full-size SUV territory.
4. Volvo XC40: Compact Versatility in a Premium Package
The 2025 Volvo XC40 delivers excellent value at a base price of $40,650. Despite its compact footprint, it offers standout practicality with fold-flat seats that create generous cargo room, beating competitors like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA when configured for storage.
The XC40 shines with a high-quality cabin, efficient powertrain, and strong safety features. Its cargo space makes it ideal for urban drivers who need space for gear or shopping without upsizing to a midsize SUV. It’s a nimble yet luxurious vehicle, perfect for young professionals or smaller families.
5. Acura MDX: Family-Focused and Feature-Rich
The Acura MDX remains a top pick for those needing seating flexibility and premium amenities. The 2025 model’s standout feature is its configurable second row, where the middle seat can be folded or removed, converting it into two captain’s chairs. Both the second and third rows fold flat, opening up 95 cubic feet of cargo space.
The MDX also benefits from a smooth ride courtesy of adaptive air suspension and is powered by a strong 3.5L V6 engine. Offering both front- and all-wheel drive, it blends utility, luxury, and performance for growing families.
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6. Chevrolet Blazer: Budget-Friendly with Practical Features
Priced at $35,400, the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer is a budget-conscious SUV with style and practicality. Though not the most spacious in the segment, it provides ample room for passengers and cargo alike.
With the rear seats folded, cargo capacity expands to 64.2 cubic feet—plenty for most daily needs. It lacks some high-end features of its rivals but makes up for it with solid performance, intuitive tech, and appealing design.
It’s a smart choice for buyers seeking versatility without breaking the bank, and its flat load floor makes hauling large items relatively simple.
7. Mazda CX-50: Driver-Focused and Ready for Adventure
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 is the most affordable SUV on this list, starting at $30,300. Mazda combines value with refined styling and engaging driving dynamics. The rear 60/40 split seats can be folded remotely, and a power liftgate makes loading cargo more convenient.
While it doesn’t offer the largest cargo space in its class, the thoughtful design and easy access make it a practical choice for daily use. Higher trims include a 256-horsepower turbocharged engine, appealing to drivers who want both power and versatility. The CX-50 delivers strong performance and thoughtful features in a compact, well-designed package.
8. Genesis GV80: Luxury and Space in Equal Measure
As Genesis’s flagship SUV, the 2025 GV80 delivers on both luxury and practicality. Starting at $58,700, it provides up to 84 cubic feet of cargo space when rear seats are folded, making it ideal for long hauls or large loads.
With up to 375 horsepower on tap and a well-appointed interior, it competes favorably with far more expensive European rivals.
The GV80’s fold-flat seating, premium materials, and ample tech features create an environment of sophisticated utility. It’s perfect for discerning buyers wanting space, comfort, and performance in a singular package.
9. Genesis GV70: Compact Luxury with a Practical Core
The Genesis GV70 is the GV80’s smaller counterpart, but retains the same level of refinement. Priced at $45,700, the 2025 GV70 features a choice of a powerful 2.5L or 3.5L engine and comes with a powered liftgate.
Its rear seats must be manually folded, but doing so reveals ample cargo space for its segment. Unlike its sedan sibling, the GV70 has enough rear-seat room for taller passengers and remains a favorite for those who want luxury in a more manageable size. It offers strong value for money without sacrificing elegance or usability.
10. Volvo XC90: Spacious, Safe, and Efficient
The 2025 Volvo XC90 continues to impress as one of the most complete three-row SUVs available. Starting at $58,450, it combines space, safety, and hybrid efficiency. Offering up to 85.7 cubic feet of cargo space with all rear seats folded flat, it stands out for sheer volume.
It even includes a fold-flat front passenger seat for awkwardly shaped cargo. With optional captain’s chairs and high-quality materials throughout, the XC90 feels both luxurious and functional. Volvo’s emphasis on sustainability and comfort makes this a leading pick for environmentally-conscious families needing space and flexibility.
From compact crossovers to full-size luxury SUVs, fold-flat seats have become a hallmark of modern utility vehicles. This essential feature transforms everyday SUVs into multi-purpose machines, making life easier whether you’re hauling groceries, moving house, or heading on a road trip.
Each SUV highlighted here offers a unique blend of performance, design, and flexibility, giving buyers a wide range of options based on budget and lifestyle.
Whether it’s the high-end Genesis GV80 or the economical Mazda CX-50, fold-flat seating remains a key differentiator in an increasingly competitive segment, where versatility is more valuable than ever.
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