Second-Row Seating

Second-Row Seating

Backseatcomparo

Crew cabs account for almost 50 percent of the half-ton market, which is why we asked for trucks with four full-size doors.

We moved the driver’s seat all the way back and judged each truck by how much room was left for the second-row passenger’s knees and legs, as well as by seat-bottom angle and back support.

The Toyota Tundra CrewMax had the most room and best seating position and comfort for its backseat passenger. Our thighs were almost level with our knees, and lumbar support was good. There was plenty of legroom.

We liked the Dodge Ram’s new crew cab configuration. It doesn’t disrupt the truck’s proportions like the old MegaCab configuration did, and there’s still plenty of room, though not as much as in the Tundra.

The Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra had identical second rows. They were comfortable, but a little on the small side. Entering the rear seat was a bit difficult because the door openings were on the small side.

The Ford F-150 was comparable to the Dodge Ram and GM trucks in comfort even though its second row was large in size, nearly as big as the Tundra. We didn’t like the low height and angle of its seat cushion. The seat was so low our knees were above our hips.

The Titan had the most cramped second row. Our knees almost touched the back of the driver’s seat and the bottom cushion was on the short side. Seat height was a bit below where we wanted it to be, and back support was lacking.

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Comments

ARGH! Make the pictures match up with the truck you're talking about! Or put the truck's name on the picture!

@Hawaii Guy: You're absolutely right. Fixed.

This article is refreshingly comprehensive of the important features of a truck. Long trips or just transporting certain passengers can make the backseat just as important as power and maneuverability.

Wow, the F-150 makes it seem like you are slouching to sit in the back seat.

I owe a 2009 Nissan Titan Crew Cab LE 4x4. I am 6'1" tall and 230lbs and with the diver seat all the way to the back my knees are 7.5 inches away(i have a 34 inseam). I measured and took pics. I looked at every single one of these trucks and driven all of them. My opinion certainly differs then the testers; to the point in which I feel there rankings MAY have been tainted. The only truck that does have more room is the tundra, but was $3500. more.
Some good info here but you really need to see for yourself and drive one.



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