Midsize SUV With Most Cargo Space | SUV Cargo Space Comparison

Today’s SUVs offer some of the most capable performance of any vehicle. They also feature ample seating for up to eight passengers and plenty of cargo capacity. Buick and GMC have a strong lineup of capable midsize SUVs, and we want to take the guesswork out of your decision. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you make an informed decision.

Let’s take a closer look at the different SUVs and their respective cargo and passenger room they offer.

What is a Midsize SUV?

You’ve probably heard names bandied about, like crossover, compact, midsize, and full-size, to describe SUVs and their segments. It can get confusing if you don’t understand the basics of SUVs. Crossovers and compact SUVs generally use the same platform as a sedan, usually a small one. This smaller setup gives you better agility and fuel efficiency over larger vehicles.

A midsize SUV vs. a compact SUV will use a larger frame and chassis, perhaps borrowed from a truck or a larger sedan, or designed specifically for the SUV in question. Midsize platforms give you more passenger space, more cargo volume, and more power. The tradeoff comes in increased vehicle weight which impacts fuel efficiency and, in some cases, handling. Midsize SUVs can have two or three rows of seats to fit five to seven passengers.

Full-size SUVs have the largest framework of any SUV and usually come from a truck within the same brand if not designed as a standalone production vehicle. This larger chassis and frame allow for maximum passenger space and cargo area. A full-size SUV will have three rows that seat seven to nine passengers, depending on the configuration.

The midsize SUV has the greatest appeal over various demographics. A family of five can fit comfortably, or a young adult can hit the road for a weekend getaway with equal satisfaction. You can take the kids to school or pick up friends for a night out in a midsize SUV.

Buick Enclave Cargo Space

The Buick Enclave offers three rows of seating for up to seven passengers, making it one of Buick’s largest midsize SUVs. Buick built the Enclave to please families, and the interior features many premium amenities like leather upholstery and infotainment systems. Second-row seats have smart slide technology for easy access to the 60/40 split-folding third row. Behind the third row, you have 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space. The third row power-folds into the floor, opening up 58 cubic feet behind the second row. Stowing the second-row seats creates a cavernous 97.6 cubic feet of space.

You can choose between the Preferred, Essence, Premium, and Avenir trims in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Every Enclave uses a 3.6-liter V-6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque and can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Buick Envision Cargo Space

This midsize SUV seats five passengers in two rows. Like the Enclave, the Buick Envision offers some tremendous interior amenities to make the ride enjoyable, like Amazon Alexa built-in. You also get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support that lets you sync your smart devices for hands-free operation. A massaging driver’s seat and QuietTuning technology elevate your experience.

The 60/40 split/folding rear seat allows for multiple cargo configurations. Behind the second row, you have 25.2 cubic feet of cargo space. With the back seat folded, you open up 52.7 cubic feet of cargo area. A 2-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder mated to a nine-speed automatic propels the Envision. This powertrain gives you 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It doesn’t offer the same power as the Enclave, towing only 1,500 pounds, but makes up for that with improved efficiency. The 2022 Buick Envision comes in three configurations, the Preferred, Essence & Avenir.

Cargo Space of Buick Encore GX

While technically a crossover SUV, the Buick Encore GX seats up to five passengers in premium comfort. It also has plenty of cargo space, which places it in the midsize SUV discussion. Behind the 60/40 split-folding rear seat, you have plenty of room to store your full-size suitcases and carry-on bags. The back seat folds to open up 50.2 cubic feet of cargo space. The front passenger seat also folds flat, giving you the ability to load longer items.

You have two turbocharged engines to choose from to power the Encore GX. Combined with the smaller platform, you get an incredibly nimble SUV that delivers maximum fuel economy. The sacrifice with the Encore GX comes with the lack of towing ability.

GMC Terrain Cargo Space

This midsize SUV delivers the perfect blend of power and efficiency while offering comfortable seating for up to five passengers and enough cargo space for a family camping trip. Behind the 60/40 split/folding rear seat, you have 29.6 cubic feet of cargo area. Folding the second row opens up 63.3 cubic feet of space.

The 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers plenty of power. The GMC Terrain has premium interior options, including leather upholstery and heated seats, to make your ride more comfortable. GMC’s traction select system lets you tailor your steering, throttle, and suspension to the driving conditions.

GMC Acadia Cargo Space

The GMC Acadia offers the most cargo and passenger space of GMC midsize SUVs. You can seat seven people in three rows and still have plenty of room for gear. Behind the 60/40 split/folding rear seat, you have 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Folding the third row flat opens up 41.7 cubic feet. You get 79 cubic feet when you fold the second and third-row seats.

You have three engine options in the Acadia lineup, ranging from a 2-liter turbo up to a 3.6-liter V-6. The 2-liter engine can tow up to 1,500 pounds while the V-6 can handle up to 4,000 pounds, making this a great option for families with a boat or camper.

At #1 Cochran Buick-GMC Youngstown, we know what drivers want in a midsize SUV. That’s why we have an expansive inventory of midsize SUVs from both Buick and GMC. We invite you to browse our inventory online or visit our showroom. One of our professional salespeople will show you the different models and let you take your favorite for a test drive.