The Ultimate Family SUV Showdown: Uncovering 2025’s Top Contenders for Legroom and Interior Space

“packing the family suv 1” by stevendamron is licensed under CC BY 2.0

When navigating the highly competitive landscape of the family SUV market, the conversation often gravitates towards power figures, towing capacities, or advanced infotainment systems. However, for a significant segment of buyers – particularly families, daily commuters, and avid road-trippers – one metric consistently rises to the top in terms of real-world usability and satisfaction: legroom. The ability to stretch out, relax, and enjoy the journey, whether it’s a cross-country adventure or the daily school run, profoundly impacts the overall vehicle experience, transforming a mere mode of transport into a comfortable mobile sanctuary.

In an era where SUVs have largely supplanted traditional sedans as the go-to family vehicle, the expectation for generous interior space has never been higher. Yet, a large exterior footprint doesn’t automatically equate to superior passenger comfort. Many seemingly substantial SUVs can surprise prospective owners with surprisingly cramped rear quarters or front seats that fail to accommodate taller drivers comfortably. This disparity underscores the critical importance of scrutinizing actual legroom figures and understanding how intelligent cabin design translates into tangible comfort for all occupants.

This authoritative guide delves deep into the heart of the family SUV space war, offering expert analysis on models that truly prioritize passenger comfort. We’ll meticulously compare key contenders based on their front and rear legroom measurements, exploring not just the numbers, but the practical implications for real-world driving. Our focus today is on the vehicles that set the benchmark for spaciousness, ensuring that every journey is a pleasant one, free from the discomfort of confined quarters.

1. **Hyundai Palisade — Class-Leading Comfort With Room to Spare**The Hyundai Palisade has swiftly established itself in the midsize SUV market, earning acclaim for its sophisticated design, thoughtful features, and, crucially, abundant legroom. It boasts an impressive 44.1 inches of front legroom and a generous 42.4 inches in the second row. These figures often rival or surpass those found in many larger, full-size SUVs, positioning the Palisade as a prime contender for families prioritizing expansive passenger comfort.

What truly sets the Palisade apart is Hyundai’s meticulous space utilization. The design team has optimized seat positioning, floor height, and console arrangement to create an inherently open and airy cabin. Second-row passengers, in particular, are treated to exceptional stretch-out room, whether in the standard bench or available captain’s chairs, ensuring minimal fatigue on long journeys. The third row also defies expectations, offering a practical 31.4 inches of legroom—sufficient for adults on shorter trips, a notable achievement in this segment. Access to these rear seats is further simplified by power-folding second-row seats and wide door openings.

Beyond its exemplary dimensions, the Palisade’s interior experience is enriched by quality materials and plush seat cushioning, especially in higher trims. Soft-touch surfaces, ambient lighting, and available heated/ventilated seats in both first and second rows reinforce its comfort-focused reputation. Coupled with a remarkably quiet ride and smooth suspension, the Palisade delivers an exceptional balance of size, functionality, and passenger comfort, making it a clear frontrunner for relaxed travel.

Car Model Information: 2024 Hyundai PALISADE Calligraphy
Name: Hyundai Palisade
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Production: 2018–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Related: Kia Telluride
Predecessor: Hyundai Santa Fe#Maxcruz
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Chassis: Unibody
Caption: Second-generation Palisade
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with bare URLs for citations, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Hyundai Palisade (Korean: 현대 팰리세이드) is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Hyundai Motor Company since late 2018, replacing the Maxcruz (also known as Santa Fe XL outside of South Korea) as the flagship SUV under the Hyundai brand. The term palisade means a fence of defensive stakes or a series of coastal cliffs — the latter recalling the neighborhood of Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles or the nearly forty mile Hudson River palisade, running north from opposite Manhattan.

Get more information about: Hyundai Palisade

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Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

2. **Volkswagen Atlas — Boxy Dimensions, Exceptional Legroom**The Volkswagen Atlas boldly embraces its substantial proportions, and this unapologetic commitment to size is precisely why it shines so brightly in the realm of legroom. Eschewing overly sleek, compromising curves, the Atlas’s straight-edged, squared-off design is a deliberate strategy to maximize interior volume. The result is one of the most capacious cabins available in the midsize three-row SUV segment, a testament to intelligent design prioritizing occupant comfort above all else.

Drivers and front passengers benefit from a generous 41.7 inches of front legroom, while the second row truly distinguishes itself with a remarkable 37.6 inches of legroom. This makes it an outstanding choice for families with growing children or adults who frequently occupy the middle row. A key strength of the Atlas lies in its rare ability to comfortably accommodate adults across all three rows, with the third row boasting 33.7 inches of legroom—a figure that often surpasses many direct competitors and is genuinely sufficient for adults on shorter trips.

Further enhancing its practicality, the Atlas features wide-opening rear doors, which significantly simplify entry and exit, invaluable for child seats or elderly passengers. The expansive windows and elevated roofline contribute to an open, airy cabin ambiance, amplifying the sense of spaciousness. Up front, seating is generously proportioned, offering abundant headroom and legroom for tall drivers, while the second row’s flat floor maximizes usability for the center seat. The Atlas proves to be a versatile, roomy, and practical choice for maximizing legroom across every row.

3. **Kia Telluride — Stylish Design With Generous Passenger Space**The Kia Telluride has garnered widespread critical acclaim, striking a masterful balance between sophisticated styling, an impressive array of high-end features, and, crucially, exceptional interior space. It stands as one of the most visually attractive midsize SUVs on the market and also one of the most capacious, providing an identical and highly commendable 44.1 inches of front legroom and 42.4 inches in the second row, matching its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Palisade.

What truly elevates the Telluride in terms of legroom is its meticulously crafted cabin design, which instinctively prioritizes comfort and easy accessibility for passengers in all three rows. Up front, tall drivers and co-pilots will appreciate the expansive seats and extensive adjustability. Moving to the second row, whether equipped with captain’s chairs or a spacious bench, passengers are treated to an abundance of stretch-out space, enough to comfortably cross their legs on extended journeys. The third row provides a genuinely usable 31.4 inches of legroom—sufficient for teenagers or smaller adults to ride in reasonable comfort.

Interior comfort is further bolstered by high-quality materials and astute attention to detail; even base models exude an upscale refinement. Upper trims introduce luxuries such as ventilated seats, premium Nappa leather, and dual sunroofs. Another significant triumph for the Telluride is its remarkably quiet cabin dynamics, effectively suppressing road and engine noise. For discerning buyers who require an SUV capable of comfortably transporting adults or rapidly growing teenagers without sacrificing cargo or third-row utility, the Kia Telluride stands out as an elegant, highly capable, and exceptionally spacious choice.

Car Model Information: 2021 Kia Telluride SX
Name: Kia Telluride
Caption: 2022 Kia Telluride EX (US)
Manufacturer: Kia
Production: February 2019 – present
ModelYears: 2020–present (North America)
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Related: Hyundai Palisade
Predecessor: Kia Mohave
Sp: us
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 2019, Commons category link from Wikidata, Crossover sport utility vehicles
Summary: The Kia Telluride is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating manufactured and marketed by Kia since 2019. Positioned above the smaller Sorento, the Telluride was previewed as a concept car in 2016, with the production model debuting in early 2019 as a 2020 model. It shares components and specifications with its sister model, the Hyundai Palisade, including its engine, transmission, and wheelbase. Named after the town of Telluride, Colorado, the Telluride is the largest vehicle Kia has manufactured in the United States.

Get more information about: Kia Telluride

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Brand: Kia Model: Telluride
Price: $27,990 Mileage: 94,312 mi.

4. **Chevrolet Traverse — Understated Looks, Overachieving Space**The Chevrolet Traverse might not always be the first vehicle that springs to mind for style or flash within the SUV market, often presenting a more understated aesthetic. However, when the conversation shifts to the critical metrics of legroom and sheer interior volume, the Traverse reveals itself to be an undeniable hidden gem. It is purposefully engineered for buyers whose paramount concern is passenger comfort, especially for larger families or those who frequently embark on extensive, long-distance journeys.

The numbers speak for themselves: a cavernous 41 inches of front legroom, a generous 38.4 inches in the second row, and an industry-leading 33.5 inches in the third row. These dimensions underscore the Traverse’s design philosophy, prioritizing human comfort above all else. While many three-row SUVs inevitably compromise on rear passenger space in favor of increased cargo room or a sculpted exterior, the Traverse expertly navigates this balancing act. Its extended wheelbase and thoughtfully boxy proportions translate directly into an enormous, genuinely family-friendly cabin, setting it apart from many competitors.

A key differentiator for the Traverse is its third-row usability. Unlike many segment rivals, the Traverse comfortably accommodates adults without them having to endure uncomfortable hunching or knee-folding postures. The second-row seating is equally impressive, offering ample hip and legroom, further enhanced by a flat floor design that makes the middle seat far more comfortable. Rear seat occupants also benefit from wide door openings and GM’s innovative Smart Slide system, which makes entry and exit remarkably easy. The Traverse delivers an overarching sense of openness and effortless movement, making it a highly compelling choice for practical-minded buyers prioritizing tangible interior space.

Car Model Information: 2021 Chevrolet Traverse Premier
Name: Chevrolet Traverse
Caption: Second generation facelift model
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: 2008–present
ModelYears: 2009–present
Class: Full-size crossover SUV
Layout: ubl
Predecessor: Chevrolet TrailBlazer
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Chevrolet Traverse is a full-size crossover SUV with three-row seating built by General Motors produced since the 2009 model year. It is built on the same platform as the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave, known as the Lambda platform for the first generation, and the C1XX for the second generation. It also shares the C1XX platform with the Cadillac XT6. It is the successor to the TrailBlazer body-on-frame SUV and the Uplander minivan. The second-generation model debuted in showrooms in the middle of 2017. Starting with the 2019 model year, the Traverse was slotted above the new mid-size Chevrolet Blazer as part of Chevrolet’s plans to expand its SUV lineup. The Traverse name was originally used for a concept car at the 2003 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, but that concept gave way when the Equinox launched for the 2005 model year.

Get more information about: Chevrolet Traverse

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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Traverse
Price: $29,995 Mileage: 84,738 mi.

5. **Toyota Grand Highlander — Big Space, Bigger Comfort**The Toyota Grand Highlander emerged as a direct response to a prevalent criticism leveled against its sibling, the regular Highlander: a perceived lack of adequate third-row and overall passenger space. Engineered from the ground up with an extended wheelbase and a comprehensively re-imagined interior, the Grand Highlander delivers a substantial boost in legroom across all three rows. This deliberate enhancement immediately positions it as one of the most spacious midsize SUVs available on the market today.

The legroom figures for the Grand Highlander are truly impressive and speak volumes about its commitment to passenger comfort: 44.3 inches of front legroom, a remarkable 39.5 inches in the second row, and a generous 33.5 inches in the third row. These measurements not only rival but in many cases, outright surpass those offered by many traditional full-size competitors. It’s clear that Toyota aimed to create a vehicle that could comfortably carry a full complement of passengers without compromise.

The Grand Highlander’s most celebrated feature is undeniably its adult-friendly third row. Unlike the standard Highlander, where the rearmost seats are generally best reserved for younger occupants, this upgraded iteration confidently accommodates adults in comfort, even during longer drives. Taller passengers will particularly appreciate the intelligent seat height and expansive legroom, which effectively banish the all-too-common “knees-to-chest” posture. The second row mirrors this generosity, offering an abundance of space ideal for multiple car seats or growing teenagers. Ultimately, the Grand Highlander seamlessly fuses Toyota’s legendary reliability with genuinely unexpected levels of interior spaciousness, making it a preeminent option for maximum legroom without venturing into the full-size SUV category.

While many buyers rightly assume that an SUV implies generous interior space, this is often not the case, particularly concerning legroom. Some SUVs, in their pursuit of striking styling, compact dimensions for urban navigation, or even maximizing cargo capacity, inadvertently compromise passenger comfort. For individuals with longer legs, growing families, or anyone who frequently transports adults in the rear seats, insufficient legroom can swiftly transform an otherwise appealing vehicle into a source of daily frustration and discomfort.

Today’s diverse SUV market features everything from nimble subcompact crossovers to vast three-row behemoths. Yet, it’s a common misconception that all outwardly large SUVs inherently offer expansive passenger quarters. In reality, some models that appear substantial on the outside can be surprisingly cramped within. Subcompact and compact SUVs, in particular, often present rear legroom figures comparable to smaller sedans, and even certain midsize SUVs fail to leverage their cabin layouts with optimal efficiency. This limitation in rear seating can lead to passenger complaints, uncomfortable road trips, and considerable challenges when attempting to install child seats or accommodate adult passengers in the back.

This segment of our comprehensive guide shines a light on five SUVs that, despite their potential strengths in other areas like fuel economy, technological integration, or attractive pricing, fall short when it comes to passenger legroom. We will meticulously examine both front and rear legroom measurements, as restricted space in either row can lead to prolonged dissatisfaction for owners. If your purchasing considerations lean towards a smaller SUV for urban driving or budget-conscious reasons, understanding these compromises in passenger space is absolutely vital. These five SUVs may integrate seamlessly into your garage, align with your budget, and complement your lifestyle, but they might not provide the expansive legroom that some drivers and passengers require.

Let’s delve into the models that, while excelling in certain aspects, demand careful consideration for their more constrained passenger quarters.

Car Model Information: 2020 Hyundai PALISADE SEL
Name: Toyota Grand Highlander
Caption: 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Limited (US)
Manufacturer: Toyota
ModelCode: AS10
Production: August 2023 – present
ModelYears: 2024–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Platform: Toyota TNGA-K platform
Chassis: Unibody
Related: unbulleted list
Engine: unbulleted list
Powerout: unbulleted list
Transmission: unbulleted list
Drivetrain: Hybrid vehicle drivetrain#Power-split or series-parallel hybrid
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 2023, Commons category link from Wikidata
Summary: The Toyota Grand Highlander is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating produced by Toyota since 2023. The Grand Highlander was introduced for the North American market on February 8, 2023. While sharing the nameplate and the GA-K platform with the regular Highlander, the Grand Highlander is longer, taller, and wider, and features entirely different exterior and interior styling. In the North American market, the Grand Highlander is positioned between the smaller Highlander and the larger Tundra-based Sequoia. It is available in five grade levels: XLE, Limited, and Platinum since 2023, Nightshade since 2024, and LE starting in 2025. The Lexus equivalent is known as the Lexus TX, and is also exclusive to North America.

Get more information about: Toyota Grand Highlander

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Brand: Toyota Model: Grand Highlander
Price: $22,884 Mileage: 82,599 mi.

6. **Toyota C-HR — Edgy Design, Tight Dimensions**The Toyota C-HR confidently makes a statement with its distinctive coupe-like styling, sharp lines, and an assertively sporty stance, successfully capturing attention in the subcompact SUV segment. Its design undoubtedly boasts visual flair, and its compact dimensions make it a highly maneuverable option for navigating congested urban environments. However, this commitment to bold aesthetics and city-friendly size comes with a significant trade-off in one of the most critical areas for passenger comfort: legroom.

With just 43.5 inches of front legroom and a notably constrained 31.7 inches in the rear, the C-HR unfortunately ranks among the SUVs offering the least usable passenger space. This is a particularly pertinent consideration for taller drivers or families who anticipate transporting growing children. The C-HR’s design priorities were clearly skewed towards style from its inception, a focus that is distinctly evident in its dramatically sloped roofline and overall compact cabin architecture. This design ethos, while visually appealing, inherently restricts interior volume.

The impact on rear seat legroom is especially pronounced and limiting, rendering it uncomfortable for the majority of adults on anything beyond very short trips. Even teenagers and taller children may find themselves feeling quite squeezed, particularly if they are seated behind a taller driver or front passenger. This significant compromise means that while the C-HR is a standout in terms of urban agility and distinctive looks, it requires prospective buyers to accept considerable limitations in passenger stretch-out space, making it less ideal for those prioritizing interior roominess for all occupants.

Car Model Information: 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE Premium
Name: Toyota C-HR
Caption: Toyota C-HR 1.8 Hybrid (ZYX20, Europe)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: FAW Toyota
Production: 2016–present
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Platform: Toyota TNGA-C platform
Layout: unbulleted list
Categories: 2020s cars, ASEAN NCAP small off-road, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Toyota C-HR (Japanese: トヨタ C-HR, Hepburn: Toyota Shīeichiāru) is a subcompact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Japanese automaker Toyota since 2016. Since 2020, it is positioned between the Yaris Cross and Corolla Cross in Toyota’s crossover SUV range. The first-generation C-HR was available in many regions, including Japan, China, North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and Australasia, and was produced in four countries. Since the release of the second-generation C-HR in 2023, availability of the C-HR has been limited to Europe and Australia, with production centralised in Turkey. The Corolla Cross, released in 2020, has largely taken over the model’s positioning outside Europe.

Get more information about: Toyota C-HR

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Brand: Toyota Model: C-HR
Price: $16,710 Mileage: 69,840 mi.

7. **Mazda CX-30 — Premium Feel, But Rear Space Is a Pinch**The Mazda CX-30 presents itself as a compelling entry in the subcompact SUV category, consistently impressing with its upscale interior ambiance, premium material quality, and a driving experience that often feels more refined and engaging than its price point suggests. It successfully blends sophistication with a sporty demeanor, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking a touch of luxury and dynamic handling in a smaller package. However, despite its many virtues, the CX-30’s compact footprint inevitably imposes limitations on interior volume, specifically impacting passenger legroom.

Measuring in with 41.7 inches of front legroom, which is generally adequate for most drivers, the second row presents a more restrictive environment. With just 36.3 inches of rear legroom, the CX-30 falls notably short when compared to more spacious rivals in its class. This limitation means that while the front occupants enjoy reasonable comfort, passengers in the rear, particularly adults or taller adolescents, will likely find themselves with a noticeable lack of space to stretch out, leading to a ‘pinched’ feeling on longer journeys.

This compromise in rear passenger space is a direct consequence of the CX-30’s sleek design and compact exterior dimensions, which, while contributing to its agile handling and attractive silhouette, don’t prioritize expansive interior volume. For buyers who frequently transport multiple adults or growing children, the CX-30’s rear legroom will be a significant consideration. While its premium feel and engaging drive remain undeniable draws, the practical reality of its restricted rear passenger comfort means it is better suited for individuals or couples who only occasionally carry rear passengers, or for those whose rear occupants are typically smaller children.

Car Model Information: 2022 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo
Name: Mazda CX-30
Manufacturer: Mazda
ModelCode: DM
Production: 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Assembly: Hiroshima,Nanjing,Kulim, Kedah,Salamanca, Guanajuato,Rayong,Vladivostok
Designer: Ryo Yanagisawa
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Platform: Skyactiv#Small Product Group
Related: Mazda3#BP,Mazda CX-50,Mazda MX-30
Engine: Petrol engine,Skyactiv#2.0 L,Skyactiv#2.5 L,Skyactiv#2.5_L_Turbo,Skyactiv#Skyactiv-X,Hybrid electric vehicle,Skyactiv#Skyactiv-Hybrid,Diesel engine,Skyactiv#1.8 L
Motor: 6.5 PS 24-volt e-motor (e-Skyactiv-X),217 hp e-motor (CX-30 EV e-Skyactiv – China)
Battery: lithium ion
Transmission: Skyactiv#Skyactiv-MT,Skyactiv#Skyactiv-Drive
Drivetrain: Mild Hybrid
Wheelbase: 2655 mm
Abbr: on (CX-30 EV e-Skyactiv – China)
Length: 4395 mm
Width: 1795 mm
Height: 1540 mm
Weight: convert
Predecessor: Mazda CX-3
Categories: 2020s cars, ANCAP small off-road, All-wheel-drive vehicles, Articles with short description, CS1 Chinese-language sources (zh)
Summary: The Mazda CX-30 is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by Mazda. Based on the fourth-generation Mazda3, it debuted at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, to slot in between the CX-3 and the CX-5. It went on sale in Japan on 24 October 2019, with global units being produced at Mazda’s Hiroshima factory, North and South American units built in Salamanca, Guanajuato, Mexico, Thailand and initial Australian units made at the AutoAlliance Thailand plant in Rayong, and China-market units produced in Nanjing by Changan Mazda.

Get more information about: Mazda CX-30

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Brand: Mazda Model: CX-30
Price: $23,325 Mileage: 33,042 mi.

8. **Subaru Crosstrek — Rugged Personality, But Cramped Inside**The Subaru Crosstrek has carved out a distinct niche for itself with its robust, adventurous personality, standard all-wheel drive, and impressive off-road capabilities that set it apart from many competitors in the compact SUV segment. It appeals strongly to those with an active lifestyle, offering a reliable and versatile companion for outdoor excursions and navigating various weather conditions. Yet, for all its rugged charm and practicality, the Crosstrek’s interior dimensions reveal a less generous story when it comes to passenger legroom, particularly for those in the rear seats.

While the front occupants are afforded a respectable 42.9 inches of legroom, providing ample space for drivers and co-pilots, the second row is considerably more confined. With only 36.5 inches of rear legroom, the Crosstrek offers noticeably less space than many of its direct rivals. This figure can be particularly challenging for adult passengers, especially on extended trips, where stretching out becomes a luxury the Crosstrek simply cannot provide. The compact nature of its cabin, a trade-off for its nimble exterior and trail-friendly dimensions, means that rear passengers will experience a definite lack of personal space.

The rear seating area, while functional for shorter journeys or smaller occupants, struggles to comfortably accommodate taller adults or even rapidly growing teenagers. The design, while emphasizing utility and a compact footprint for maneuverability, does not prioritize maximizing interior passenger volume. Therefore, while the Crosstrek stands out for its go-anywhere spirit and dependable all-weather performance, buyers who frequently transport adult passengers in the second row, or those with a need for ample stretch-out room, might find its interior surprisingly cramped for their requirements. It’s a capable vehicle, but one that asks for a compromise on rear passenger comfort.

Car Model Information: 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek 2.0i Premium
Name: Subaru Crosstrek
Manufacturer: Subaru
Aka: Subaru XV (global markets, 2012–2022),Subaru XV Crosstrek (United States and Canada, 2013–2015)
Production: 2012–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: ubl
Related: Subaru Impreza
Predecessor: Subaru Outback Sport
ModelYears: 2013–present
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing Japanese-language text
Summary: The Subaru Crosstrek (Japanese: スバル・クロストレック, Hepburn: Subaru Kurosutorekku; also known as the Subaru XV globally for the first two generations) is a compact crossover SUV produced by Subaru since 2012. It is a successor to the Outback Sport in the United States and Canada, and the Impreza XV globally. Like the Outback Sport, the Crosstrek is a lifted Impreza hatchback with minor differences, though with a more substantial lift than the Outback Sport. Initially, the vehicle was marketed as the XV globally, and as the XV Crosstrek in the United States and Canada. In 2015, Subaru dropped the XV moniker in the United States and Canada, marketing it simply as the Crosstrek for the 2016 model year and onward. In 2022, Subaru introduced the third-generation model, using the Crosstrek nameplate globally for the first time. All generations of the Crosstrek are raised versions of the Subaru Impreza hatchback.

Get more information about: Subaru Crosstrek

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Brand: Subaru Model: Crosstrek
Price: $14,495 Mileage: 99,508 mi.

“2017 Hyundai Kona Active” by TuRbO_J is licensed under CC BY 2.0

9. **Hyundai Kona — Big on Features, Small on Space**The Hyundai Kona has made a significant impact in the subcompact SUV market, largely thanks to its distinctive styling, a surprisingly comprehensive suite of technology and safety features, and its spirited driving dynamics. It positions itself as a vibrant and well-equipped option for urban dwellers and those seeking a modern, feature-rich small SUV. However, beneath its appealing exterior and tech-forward interior, the Kona adheres to the subcompact ethos, which, while beneficial for maneuverability and parking, inherently limits the generosity of its passenger space, particularly in the legroom department.

The Kona provides 41.5 inches of front legroom, which is generally sufficient for most drivers and front passengers to find a comfortable position. The real constraint becomes apparent when considering the second row, where it offers a rather modest 35.2 inches of legroom. This measurement places the Kona firmly among SUVs with less rear passenger space, meaning that adults or taller teenagers will likely find their knees quite close to the front seatbacks, especially if the front occupants are also tall and have their seats pushed back.

This limited rear legroom is a direct consequence of the Kona’s overall compact dimensions and its focus on being an agile, city-friendly vehicle. While it excels in offering a wealth of features typically found in larger, more expensive vehicles, it simply cannot defy the laws of physics when it comes to interior volume. For buyers prioritizing a high level of technology, engaging performance, and a stylish exterior in a small package, the Kona is a strong contender. However, for those who frequently need to carry adult rear passengers or who value ample stretch-out room for all occupants, the Hyundai Kona’s constrained rear legroom will be a key factor to consider, indicating that passenger comfort takes a backseat to its other appealing attributes.

Car Model Information: 2024 Hyundai KONA EV SEL
Name: Hyundai Kona
Caption: Hyundai Kona N Line (SX2)
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Aka: Hyundai Kauai (Portugal)
Production: 2017–present
ModelYears: 2018–present
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: ubl
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles containing Chinese-language text
Summary: The Hyundai Kona (Korean: 현대 코나) is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai. The first-generation Kona debuted in June 2017 and the production version was revealed later that year. It is positioned between the Venue or Bayon and the Tucson in Hyundai crossover SUV line-up. The battery electric version called the Kona Electric (or Kona EV) was first launched in South Korea during the first half of 2018 and rolled out gradually worldwide afterwards.

Get more information about: Hyundai Kona

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Brand: Hyundai Model: Kona
Price: $25,444 Mileage: 10,912 mi.

10. **Jeep Renegade — Off-Road Image, On-Road Space Constraints**The Jeep Renegade presents an undeniably unique proposition in the subcompact SUV segment, leveraging the iconic Jeep brand heritage with a distinctively rugged aesthetic and genuine, albeit scaled-down, off-road capability. Its boxy, utilitarian design and playful character appeal to adventurers and those seeking a vehicle that stands out from the mainstream. Despite its adventurous spirit and rugged appearance, the Renegade’s compact dimensions and design choices result in some noticeable compromises when it comes to interior passenger space, particularly in terms of legroom.

Front occupants in the Renegade are provided with 41.1 inches of legroom, which is generally adequate, allowing most drivers and co-pilots to find a comfortable driving position. However, it’s the second row where the Renegade’s space constraints become more apparent. Offering only 35.1 inches of rear legroom, the Renegade is one of the more restrictive options in its class for back-seat passengers. This limited space means that adult passengers in the rear will likely feel quite confined, especially during longer journeys, with little room to adjust their posture or stretch their legs.

The Renegade’s design, while effective in conveying its off-road persona and maintaining a compact footprint for urban agility, does not prioritize maximizing passenger legroom. The tall, upright seating position in the rear can offer decent headroom, but the limited fore-aft space remains a challenge for taller individuals. Therefore, while the Jeep Renegade is an excellent choice for those seeking a characterful, capable, and distinctive subcompact SUV with an emphasis on adventure, buyers who frequently transport adult passengers in the second row should be aware of its inherent on-road space constraints. Its charm and capability are evident, but it demands an understanding of its limitations in passenger comfort for all but the shortest trips or smallest occupants.

Navigating the intricate world of family SUVs invariably involves a series of critical trade-offs. As we’ve thoroughly explored, some models are engineered with a singular focus on providing expansive, uncompromised legroom, elevating passenger comfort to a paramount concern. These vehicles are meticulously designed to ensure that every journey, whether a quick errand or an epic road trip, remains a comfortable and relaxing experience for all occupants, from the driver to the often-overlooked third-row passengers. They stand as a testament to intelligent design that directly translates into tangible, real-world comfort, proving that spaciousness is not merely a luxury but a fundamental element of a satisfying automotive experience.

Car Model Information: 2021 Jeep Renegade Latitude
Name: Jeep Renegade
Manufacturer: Jeep
Production: 2014–present
ModelYears: 2015–2023 (US & Canada),2015–present (Mexico)
Assembly: ubl
Designer: Jeremy Glover and Ian Hedge
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Platform: GM Fiat Small platform
Related: Fiat 500X,Fiat 500L,Fiat Tipo (2015),Fiat Toro
Engine: ubl
Motor: 45 kW
Abbr: on
Transmission: Fiat Powertrain Technologies,Fiat Powertrain Technologies,Fiat Powertrain Technologies,Fiat Powertrain Technologies,Aisin,Fiat Powertrain Technologies,ZF Friedrichshafen
Battery: lithium-ion battery
Drivetrain: PHEV
Wheelbase: 101.2 in
Length: 166.6 in
Width: 71.1 in
Height: 66.5 in
Weight: convert
Sp: us
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Summary: The Jeep Renegade is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by Stellantis under their Jeep marque. It was first shown to the public in March 2014 at the Geneva Motor Show and production started in late August of that year. The Renegade was the smallest vehicle currently marketed by Jeep, until the arrival of the Avenger. It slots between the Avenger and the Compass. It is based on the FCA Small Wide 4×4 platform, which is also shared with other FCA models, including those from Fiat and Alfa Romeo brands. The Renegade comes as standard with front-wheel drive, with optional four-wheel drive systems Active Drive I and Active Drive Low, both of which are paired with Jeep’s Selec-Terrain System.

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