Can You Fold Back Seats in Intermediate Suv

Yes, most intermediate SUVs allow you to fold back seats for extra cargo room—but the method and flexibility vary. Whether you’re hauling gear, moving furniture, or just need more space, understanding your SUV’s seat-folding options can make a big difference in daily use.

So, you’ve got yourself an intermediate SUV—maybe it’s a Toyota Highlander, a Honda Passport, or a Ford Edge—and you’re wondering: *Can you fold back seats in an intermediate SUV?* The short answer is: **yes, almost always**. But the real story lies in *how* you can fold them, what that means for your cargo space, and whether it actually makes your life easier.

Intermediate SUVs—also known as midsize SUVs—are designed to strike a balance between passenger comfort, fuel efficiency, and utility. They’re bigger than compact crossovers but not as massive as full-size three-row beasts. Because of this sweet spot, they’re incredibly popular among families, weekend adventurers, and anyone who needs a little extra room without sacrificing drivability. And one of the key features that makes them so versatile? The ability to fold down the rear seats.

But here’s the thing: not all foldable seats are created equal. Some SUVs let you fold the entire second row flat with a single pull of a lever. Others require you to remove headrests first or fold sections independently. And if your SUV has a third row (which many intermediate models offer as an option), the folding process becomes even more nuanced. So while the answer to “Can you fold back seats?” is generally “yes,” the real value comes from understanding *what kind* of folding your SUV supports—and how that impacts your daily life.

Whether you’re loading up camping gear, picking up a new piece of furniture, or just trying to fit a week’s worth of groceries without playing Tetris in the trunk, knowing your SUV’s seat-folding capabilities can be a game-changer. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about folding back seats in intermediate SUVs—from standard features to hidden tricks, common pitfalls, and model-specific differences.

Key Takeaways

• Most intermediate SUVs offer foldable rear seats: Nearly all midsize SUVs from brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, and Hyundai include some form of rear seat folding to expand cargo capacity.
• 60/40 or 40/20/40 split configurations are common: These allow partial folding so you can carry both passengers and cargo at the same time.
• Power-folding seats are available in higher trims: Some luxury or premium trims offer one-touch power folding via buttons inside the cabin or trunk.
• Third-row seating affects folding options: Intermediate SUVs with optional third rows may have more complex folding mechanisms and reduced cargo space when all seats are up.
• Check for flat-folding capability: Not all folded seats lie completely flat—some leave a step or gap, which can affect large item storage.
• Always consult your owner’s manual: Folding methods differ by model and year, and improper use could damage seats or mechanisms.
• Aftermarket solutions exist for limited models: If your SUV lacks easy folding, cargo organizers or seat risers can help maximize usable space.

Why Seat Folding Matters in Intermediate SUVs

Let’s start with the “why.” Why does being able to fold back seats matter so much in an intermediate SUV? It all comes down to flexibility.

Unlike sedans or hatchbacks, SUVs are built with utility in mind. They’re meant to adapt—whether you’re shuttling kids to soccer practice, hauling a kayak to the lake, or moving into a new apartment. The rear seats are often the key to that adaptability. When you fold them down, you unlock a surprising amount of cargo space. In many midsize SUVs, folding the rear seats can increase trunk volume from around 30–40 cubic feet to over 70 cubic feet—enough to fit a small mattress, several large suitcases, or even a mini-fridge.

But it’s not just about raw space. It’s about *how* you use that space. A flat, uninterrupted cargo floor makes loading heavy or bulky items much easier. It also reduces the risk of damaging your seats or scratching your interior. And if you’re someone who frequently switches between passenger and cargo mode—say, you drive coworkers to the office most days but take weekend trips with gear—having quick and easy seat folding is a huge convenience.

Another reason seat folding matters? Resale value. SUVs with flexible interiors tend to hold their value better because they appeal to a wider range of buyers. Features like 60/40 split-folding seats or power-folding mechanisms are often highlighted in listings and reviews, signaling that the vehicle is both practical and modern.

The Evolution of SUV Interior Design

It wasn’t always this way. Early SUVs—think boxy Jeeps or full-size truck-based models—often had rigid, non-folding rear seats. Cargo space was limited, and if you needed more room, you had to remove the seats entirely (a tedious and sometimes dangerous process). As consumer demand shifted toward more family-friendly, car-like SUVs in the 1990s and 2000s, automakers began prioritizing interior flexibility.

The rise of the crossover SUV—built on car platforms rather than truck frames—accelerated this trend. These vehicles were designed from the ground up to balance comfort and utility. Foldable rear seats became standard, and manufacturers started experimenting with split configurations, fold-flat designs, and even third-row seating.

Today, seat folding is no longer a luxury—it’s an expectation. And in the intermediate SUV segment, where competition is fierce, brands are constantly innovating to offer better, smarter, and more user-friendly folding systems.

How Rear Seats Fold in Intermediate SUVs

Now that we’ve established why folding seats matter, let’s talk about *how* it actually works. The mechanics can vary widely depending on the make, model, and trim level of your SUV. But most intermediate SUVs fall into a few common categories.

Manual Fold-Down Seats (Lever or Strap)

The most common type of seat folding in intermediate SUVs is manual, activated by a lever or strap. You’ll typically find a release lever on the side of the seatback, near the bottom, or sometimes on the top edge. Pulling it releases the seatback, allowing you to fold it forward.

Many models use a **60/40 split**, meaning the left side (60%) and right side (40%) fold independently. This is useful if you have one passenger in the back but need to carry a long item like a surfboard or a piece of lumber. Some premium models offer a **40/20/40 split**, which adds a small middle section that can fold separately—great for carrying skis or a narrow box while still seating two passengers.

To fold manually:
1. Remove any items from the seat.
2. Pull up on the headrest (some models require this first).
3. Locate the release lever or strap.
4. Pull it while pushing the seatback forward.
5. Ensure the seat locks into place in the folded position.

Tip: Always check your owner’s manual—some seats have safety locks or require a specific sequence to avoid damage.

Power-Folding Seats

If you’re driving a higher-trim intermediate SUV—like a Toyota Highlander Platinum, a Honda Passport Elite, or a Ford Edge ST—you might have **power-folding rear seats**. These use electric motors to fold the seats at the push of a button.

Buttons are usually located:
– Inside the cargo area (near the tailgate)
– On the infotainment screen
– On the key fob (in some luxury models)

Power folding is a game-changer for convenience. Imagine loading groceries with your hands full—just press a button, and the seats fold down automatically. Some systems even allow you to fold individual sections remotely.

However, power folding comes with a few caveats:
– It’s typically only available on top trims.
– It adds cost and complexity (and potential repair expenses).
– In cold weather, motors may respond more slowly.

Still, for families or frequent travelers, the ease of use often outweighs the drawbacks.

Third-Row Seating and Folding Complexity

Here’s where things get tricky. Many intermediate SUVs—such as the Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento, and Mazda CX-9—offer an optional third row. While this adds passenger capacity, it also complicates the folding process.

In these models, you usually have two sets of foldable seats: the second row and the third row. The third row often folds into the floor (a “power-folding” or “stow-and-go” design), while the second row may fold flat or leave a slight step.

When both rows are folded, you get maximum cargo space—but the process can be multi-step. For example, in the Kia Sorento, you might need to:
1. Fold the third-row seats into the floor.
2. Remove headrests from the second row.
3. Fold the second-row seats forward.

Some models even have a “one-touch” system that automates part of this process, but it’s not universal.

Pro tip: If you rarely use the third row, consider keeping it folded down permanently to simplify access to the cargo area.

Which Intermediate SUVs Offer the Best Seat Folding?

Not all intermediate SUVs are created equal when it comes to seat folding. Some make it effortless; others require a bit of finesse. Let’s look at a few standout models.

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a top pick for families, and its seat-folding system reflects that. The second-row seats feature a 60/40 split and fold nearly flat with a simple pull of a lever. Higher trims offer power-folding second-row seats, and the optional third row stows neatly into the floor.

One unique feature? The Highlander’s second-row seats can slide forward to make it easier to access the third row—even when the seats are partially folded. That’s a small detail that makes a big difference in daily use.

Honda Passport

The Honda Passport (a midsize cousin to the Pilot) offers a 60/40 split-folding rear seat with a nearly flat load floor. While it doesn’t have a third row, its cargo space is generous—up to 77.9 cubic feet with the seats down.

What sets the Passport apart is its **one-motion dive-down seat** mechanism. With a single pull of a strap, the entire seatback folds and the seat cushion tumbles forward, creating a flat, low-load floor. It’s intuitive and requires minimal effort.

Ford Edge

The Ford Edge offers a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, with available power-folding on higher trims. The seats fold relatively flat, though there’s a slight step between the cargo floor and the folded seatbacks.

One standout feature is the **Hands-Free Liftgate** combined with power-folding seats. Open the trunk with a foot motion, press the button, and the seats fold automatically—perfect for when your hands are full.

Hyundai Santa Fe

The Santa Fe offers a 60/40 split-folding second row and an optional third row. The third row folds into the floor, and the second row folds with a lever release. Higher trims include power-folding second-row seats.

Hyundai’s **Smart Power Liftgate** can be paired with seat folding for a seamless experience. Plus, the Santa Fe’s interior is designed with soft-touch materials and thoughtful storage, making it a comfortable and practical choice.

Mazda CX-9

The CX-9 is one of the more stylish intermediate SUVs, and its seat-folding system is surprisingly user-friendly. The second-row seats fold with a lever, and the optional third row stows into the floor. The cargo area is well-designed, with a low load floor and plenty of tie-down points.

Mazda also includes **rear seat alerts** to remind you if you’ve left something behind—a small but helpful safety feature.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Even with all these features, folding back seats in an intermediate SUV isn’t always a walk in the park. Here are some common issues and how to solve them.

Seats Don’t Fold Completely Flat

One of the biggest complaints? Folded seats that leave a step or gap. This happens when the seat cushion doesn’t tuck away fully or the seatback doesn’t lie flush with the cargo floor.

Solution: Look for SUVs with **fold-flat** or **tumble-forward** seat designs. Models like the Honda Passport and Toyota Highlander do this well. If your SUV doesn’t, consider using a **cargo mat** or **storage bin** to bridge the gap.

Headrests Get in the Way

Many SUVs require you to remove the headrest before folding the seat. This can be annoying, especially if you’re in a hurry.

Solution: Some newer models (like the Subaru Ascent) have **foldable headrests** that tuck out of the way. If yours doesn’t, keep a small bag in the trunk to store removed headrests.

Release Levers Are Hard to Reach

In some SUVs, the folding lever is tucked behind the seat or under the cargo floor—making it hard to access when the trunk is full.

Solution: Practice locating the lever when the car is empty. Some owners even label the lever with a sticker for quick identification.

Power Folding Malfunctions

Electric seat motors can fail due to cold weather, dirt, or electrical issues. If your power-folding seats stop working, check the fuse first.

Solution: Consult your dealer or a trusted mechanic. In the meantime, most power-folding systems have a manual override—usually a hidden release cable near the seat hinge.

Tips for Maximizing Cargo Space

Folding the seats is just the first step. To truly make the most of your intermediate SUV’s cargo area, try these tips:

– **Use storage bins or organizers:** Stackable bins keep items from sliding around and make unloading easier.
– **Install a cargo barrier:** A mesh or solid barrier prevents items from flying forward in sudden stops.
– **Fold seats strategically:** If you only need a little extra space, fold just one side of a split seat to keep one passenger seat available.
– **Remove unnecessary items:** Clear out the trunk regularly—every pound counts when you’re trying to fit more.
– **Use the under-floor storage:** Many SUVs have hidden compartments under the cargo floor for small items like tools or emergency kits.

Conclusion

So, can you fold back seats in an intermediate SUV? Absolutely—and in most cases, it’s one of the vehicle’s most useful features. Whether you’re using manual levers, power buttons, or a combination of both, the ability to transform your SUV from a people hauler to a cargo carrier is a major advantage.

The key is understanding your specific model’s capabilities. Not all folding systems are equal, and small details—like split configurations, flat-folding design, and third-row options—can make a big difference in real-world use. By choosing an SUV with flexible seating and learning how to use it effectively, you’ll get far more out of your vehicle.

Whether you’re packing for a road trip, moving furniture, or just trying to fit everything in after a big shopping trip, knowing how to fold back your seats turns your intermediate SUV into a true multitasker. So go ahead—fold, load, and enjoy the extra space. Your SUV was built for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you fold back seats in all intermediate SUVs?

Yes, nearly all intermediate SUVs offer some form of rear seat folding, though the method and flexibility vary by model and trim. Always check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Do I need to remove the headrest to fold the seats?

In many SUVs, yes—especially if you want the seat to fold completely flat. Some newer models have foldable or removable headrests to make the process easier.

Are power-folding seats worth the extra cost?

If you frequently fold your seats or have limited mobility, power-folding seats can be a worthwhile upgrade. However, they add complexity and potential repair costs.

Can I fold just one side of the rear seat?

Yes, most intermediate SUVs with 60/40 or 40/20/40 split seats allow you to fold individual sections, so you can carry both passengers and cargo.

What if my folded seats don’t lie flat?

This is common in some models. Use a cargo mat or storage bin to bridge the gap, or consider a roof box for extra space if you frequently carry large items.

Can folding seats damage my SUV’s interior?

Improper folding—like forcing the seat or not securing it—can damage mechanisms or scratch surfaces. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid overloading the folded area.