It wasn’t that long ago when bench seats were just about everywhere — you’d see them in sedans, trucks, SUVs. They were practical, simple, and made riding with family or friends a bit more social. Over time, though, most vehicles moved toward bucket seats, often in the name of modern design or added storage.
But here’s the thing — bench seats never really disappeared. And in 2025, they’re making a noticeable return, especially in larger SUVs and trucks where space and utility still matter a whole lot.
If you’re someone who appreciates a bit more flexibility, or you’ve got a big family to haul around, there are still several models out there with either front or second-row bench seating. And the best part? These aren’t old-school in terms of features. Most of them come loaded with top-tier tech and the kind of safety equipment you’d expect from modern rides.
Let’s check out some of the best cars and trucks offering bench seat options in 2025 — and what makes them stand out.
1. Toyota Tundra
For anyone who needs serious power under the hood but still values cabin flexibility, the Toyota Tundra remains one of the few pickups that offer a front bench seat — something you’ll find in trims like the SR and SR5.
You’re looking at a big, capable truck that doesn’t skimp on comfort. With its twin-turbocharged V6 or available hybrid setup, it’s got the muscle to tow, haul, or cruise without blinking. It also delivers a smoother ride than you might expect from something this rugged.
Inside, it’s clean and tech-forward. The touchscreen is large and intuitive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto baked in. The front bench can seat three up front — handy when you’ve got a full crew or family to take along.
And when it comes to safety? Toyota’s Safety Sense suite is standard. So you get automatic emergency braking, lane departure alerts, and adaptive cruise control without having to climb the trim ladder. Whether you’re using it for job sites, weekend trips, or just everyday life, the Tundra checks a whole lot of boxes.
2. Chevrolet Suburban
The Suburban has been around forever, and for good reason — it does a lot of things really well. And in 2025, it’s still one of the few SUVs where you can opt for a front bench seat in certain configurations.
There’s space for everyone and then some. Third-row access is easy, cargo room is massive, and if you need to tow a trailer or boat, it’s more than up for it. This thing is built for families who don’t want to compromise on size or capability.
The infotainment system is slick and user-friendly, with a responsive touchscreen and voice recognition that actually works. You’ll also find USB ports scattered throughout the cabin — a small but important touch for road trip sanity.
Chevy’s standard safety setup brings the goods: emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keeping — all there from the start. And thanks to its size and stability, the Suburban gives off a strong sense of control even when fully loaded.
3. Kia Telluride
People love the Telluride and not just because it looks great. It’s one of the most well-rounded SUVs on the road, and part of that appeal is the available second-row bench, which makes it perfect for big families or those carpool-heavy days.
The interior feels a lot more upscale than its price tag would suggest. There’s a roomy third row, premium-feeling materials, and a touchscreen setup that’s both beautiful and functional. Wireless phone integration and plenty of cargo flexibility make it easy to live with.
Standard safety features are impressive for this class — you’re getting blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, and front collision avoidance tech right out of the gate. It’s the kind of SUV that doesn’t really have a weak point. And the bench seat? Just one more reason it’s such a smart pick.
4. Acura MDX
For drivers who want a bit of luxury without sacrificing flexibility, the Acura MDX hits a sweet spot. It’s one of the few premium SUVs where you can opt for a second-row bench in select trims, allowing you to fit more people without going full minivan.
Performance-wise, it’s surprisingly athletic for a three-row SUV, thanks to its strong V6 engine and agile handling. Whether you’re navigating city traffic or stretching out on a highway drive, the MDX feels confident and composed.
Step inside, and the upscale vibe is immediately clear — soft-touch materials, ambient lighting, and a center display that’s easy to navigate once you get the hang of Acura’s interface. Wireless charging, advanced navigation, and optional ELS premium sound all add to the experience.
The Acura Watch safety system is included across the board, bringing adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision braking system that can really make a difference. If you want style, performance, and a little extra seat space, the MDX is worth a serious look.
5. Volvo XC90
Volvo’s XC90 stands out not just for its elegant design but also for how well it blends comfort with technology — and yes, it still offers a solid second-row bench for families who need that extra passenger capacity.
The interior is where it really shines. There’s a calm, minimalist layout with high-end materials, and the large vertical touchscreen feels more like a high-end tablet than a car display. It’s intuitive, snappy, and controls nearly everything in the cabin.
Ride quality is smooth and quiet, and safety remains a top focus. Volvo equips the XC90 with Pilot Assist, which helps with semi-autonomous driving, plus adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automatic braking.
If you’re the kind of driver who wants peace of mind and a little Scandinavian flair, the XC90 delivers both — with room for one more in the back thanks to that bench seat.
6. Volkswagen Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas is one of the more underrated family SUVs out there. It’s big, bold, and practical and importantly, it comes standard with a second-row bench seat in multiple trims.
There’s a ton of room to stretch out in all three rows, and even adults can fit comfortably in the back. Cargo space is solid too, especially with the rear seats folded down.
Technology is clean and straightforward — a user-friendly touchscreen, physical volume knobs (a rare luxury these days), and seamless smartphone integration. You won’t spend half your day trying to figure out how to adjust the climate controls.
VW’s IQ Drive system bundles up features like emergency braking, lane keeping, blind spot detection, and adaptive cruise control. Overall, the Atlas is a smart, no-nonsense option for growing families that need flexibility without frills.
7. Kia EV9
If you’ve been looking for an electric SUV that actually feels like it was made for families, the Kia EV9 should be on your radar. It’s one of the first EVs to offer a true second-row bench seat, and it manages to feel futuristic without losing practicality.
Inside, the EV9 is wide open — literally. The flat floor makes for easy movement inside the cabin, and the dashboard is all clean lines and high-res displays. Everything from climate control to navigation feels high-tech without being overwhelming.
Performance is sharp for an EV this size, and you get strong range estimates plus fast charging options. Kia also packed in a full list of safety systems, including highway driving assist, lane follow assist, and automated emergency braking.
If you’ve been waiting for an electric SUV that doesn’t force you to sacrifice space or comfort, this is one of the most exciting options to land in 2025.
8. Chevrolet Silverado
The Silverado has always been a workhorse, and it still offers a front bench seat in many of its lower and mid-range trims. That means you can comfortably seat up to six people, which makes a big difference on job sites or long family hauls.
Engine options range from a turbocharged four-cylinder to a robust V8, depending on how much muscle you need. And no matter which you choose, the ride is surprisingly refined — especially for a truck this tough.
Inside, the Silverado keeps things simple but effective. Controls are easy to reach, and the infotainment system doesn’t take a tech degree to figure out. The foldable center seat also turns into a handy console when not in use.
Safety features like trailer sway control, rearview cameras, and stability assist are all part of the package. It’s built to take a beating but doesn’t forget about comfort — a balance that makes the Silverado an enduring favorite.
9. GMC Sierra
The GMC Sierra shares a platform with the Silverado but adds a touch more refinement in its styling and materials. And yes, it also keeps the front bench seat option alive, especially in work-focused trims.
What stands out with the Sierra is how it walks the line between utility and comfort. You can load it up with serious towing capacity, off-road capabilities, or just enjoy a smooth daily drive — it adapts easily.
Inside, the bench seat is wide and supportive, with foldable configurations for either passengers or storage. The rest of the cabin is designed to feel upscale without losing that rugged truck vibe.
Lane keep assist, forward collision alerts, and traction control systems all come standard on many trims. If you want the heart of a work truck with just a bit more polish, the Sierra might be your perfect middle ground.
10. Ford F 150
The Ford F 150 has been the top-selling truck in America for decades, and part of that staying power comes from how well it balances utility and comfort. Even in 2025, certain trims like XL and XLT still offer the beloved front bench seat configuration. The aluminum body helps keep it light and fuel-efficient for its size, and engine choices range from turbocharged V6s to hybrid powertrains — even an electric version if you want to go that route.
Inside, the F 150 feels spacious and solid. The bench seat allows for a sixth passenger up front, or you can fold the center down to use it as an armrest and storage hub. Infotainment is straightforward, and options like Pro Power Onboard turn your truck into a mobile work station.
As expected, Ford packs it with safety features emergency braking, trailer sway control, blind spot detection all designed to keep you in control, whether you’re commuting or towing.
Why Bench Seats Are Coming Back in 2025
Even with all the talk of innovation and new car designs, bench seats are quietly regaining their popularity and honestly, it’s easy to see why. They’re practical. If you’ve got a large family, or even just the occasional need for an extra seat, a bench layout gives you that flexibility without having to upsize to a van or specialty vehicle.
They’re comfortable. Unlike some sport-style bucket seats that feel confining, benches allow passengers to shift around, stretch out, or just enjoy a more open feel in the cabin.
They’re convenient. Getting in and out of a bench seat especially for older adults, kids, or people with limited mobility is just simpler. And for parents, reaching across to buckle a child or grab something from a car seat is way easier without a bulky center console in the way.
Modern bench seats are also nothing like the flat, unsupportive ones from decades past. These days, they come with high-quality materials, heating, ventilation, and even fold-down armrests that double as storage when the middle seat isn’t in use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bench Seats
Do any SUVs still offer front bench seats?
Most modern SUVs have moved to bucket seating, especially up front. However, large models like the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon still offer second-row bench seats with enough space to mimic the traditional bench layout. Front bench seats are now almost exclusive to pickup trucks.
Which trucks still come with front bench seating in 2025?
Some of the most popular full-size pickups — including the Ford F 150, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra — still offer front bench seating, typically in their lower trims or work-focused variants.
Are any sedans bringing back bench seats?
Currently, no mass-market sedan offers a front bench seat. The last to do so in the U.S. was the 2013 Chevrolet Impala. While there’s growing nostalgia for old-school design, most automakers have shifted to center consoles in sedan interiors for tech and safety integration.
Final Thoughts
Bench seats may seem like a relic of the past, but in reality, they’re making a quiet comeback — especially in vehicles where space and functionality matter most. From rugged trucks to family-first SUVs, there are still plenty of models offering bench seating without compromising on modern features. Whether you’re after maximum seating, easier access, or just a roomier ride, bench seat vehicles deliver real value in 2025.
So if you’re tired of cramped interiors or want a bit of classic flair back in your ride, don’t count the bench seat out just yet. It’s back — and it might be exactly what your next vehicle needs.
