Cargo space often determines which SUV families choose for their daily lives. Whether you're hauling sports equipment, moving furniture, or packing for extended vacations, having enough room makes all the difference. The 2025 SUV lineup brings impressive cargo capacity improvements across multiple segments, with manufacturers recognizing that buyers want maximum utility without sacrificing comfort or style. From three-row family haulers to compact SUVs that punch above their weight, this year's models offer smart storage solutions that adapt to different needs.

Modern SUVs achieve impressive cargo capacity through clever design and engineering. Manufacturers use flat load floors, low liftover heights, and wide openings to make loading easier and maximize usable space. Many 2025 models also feature power-folding seats, adjustable cargo floors, and underfloor storage compartments that help organize gear efficiently. The best cargo-friendly SUVs balance interior passenger space with storage capacity, ensuring you don't have to choose between comfort and utility.

Large Three-Row SUVs

Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban

The Chevrolet Suburban leads the cargo space race with an enormous 144.7 cubic feet of storage behind the first row. Even with all three rows in use, the Suburban provides 41.5 cubic feet, enough for several large suitcases or sports bags. The Tahoe offers slightly less space at 122.9 cubic feet maximum, but still delivers impressive capacity for most families.

Both vehicles feature power-folding second and third-row seats that create a flat loading surface. The wide rear opening and low load floor make it easy to slide heavy items inside. Underfloor storage compartments keep valuable items secure and out of sight.

Ford Expedition and Expedition Max

The standard Expedition provides 104.6 cubic feet of cargo space, and the extended Expedition Max increases this to 121.5 cubic feet. Behind the third row, the Max offers 36.0 cubic feet compared to 19.3 cubic feet in the standard version, making it much more practical for families who need both passenger and cargo capacity.

Ford's hands-free power liftgate makes loading easier, and the cargo management system includes adjustable rails and tie-downs to secure items during transport. The second-row seats fold completely flat, creating an impressive loading area for large items.

GMC Yukon XL

The Yukon XL matches the Suburban's cargo capacity at 144.7 cubic feet maximum. The power-fold third row creates a flat loading surface, and the available cargo management system includes a partition net and adjustable tie-downs. The hands-free power liftgate opens with a simple foot motion under the rear bumper.

Mid-Size Three-Row Options

Honda Pilot

The redesigned Pilot offers 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats folded, representing a significant improvement over the previous generation. With all seats in place, the Pilot provides 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, enough for groceries and daily essentials.

The Pilot's cargo area features a dual-level floor that creates additional storage underneath. The second and third rows fold flat to accommodate larger items like furniture or appliances.

Toyota Grand Highlander

Toyota's largest SUV provides 84.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo space and 21.4 cubic feet behind the third row. The Grand Highlander's cargo area includes underfloor storage and multiple tie-down points for securing loads.

The power liftgate includes height adjustment, making it easier to use in garages with low ceilings. The second-row seats slide forward to improve third-row access without folding completely.

Two-Row SUVs with Impressive Space

Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

Despite its coupe-like roofline, the Atlas Cross Sport delivers 77.8 cubic feet of cargo space. The rear seats fold nearly flat, creating a long loading area perfect for camping gear or home improvement supplies.

The cargo area features multiple 12-volt outlets and tie-down points. The hands-free power liftgate makes loading convenient, and the cargo cover can be removed for taller items.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The three-row Grand Cherokee L provides 84.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The third row folds flat into the floor, creating a spacious two-row configuration when needed. Behind the third row, the vehicle offers 17.2 cubic feet of space.

Compact SUVs That Surprise

Subaru Forester

The Forester delivers 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space, impressive for its compact size. The rear seats fold completely flat, and the wide rear opening makes loading bulky items easier than in many larger SUVs.

Subaru designed the cargo area with a low liftover height, making it easier to load heavy items. Multiple tie-down points and 12-volt outlets add functionality for different cargo types.

Honda CR-V

The CR-V offers 75.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. The rear seats fold with a 60/40 split, allowing you to carry both passengers and long items simultaneously. The cargo floor sits relatively low, improving loading convenience.

Features That Enhance Cargo Utility

Power-Folding Seats

Many 2025 SUVs include power-folding rear seats that can be operated from the cargo area or front cabin. These systems create flat loading surfaces quickly and eliminate the physical effort required to fold heavy seats manually.

Adjustable Cargo Floors

Some models feature cargo floors that adjust to different heights, creating level loading surfaces or additional storage compartments underneath. This flexibility helps organize different types of cargo efficiently.

Hands-Free Power Liftgates

Hands-free liftgate operation has become common across many segments. These systems detect foot motion under the rear bumper and open the liftgate automatically, helpful when carrying packages or groceries.