Top Vehicles for Extra Storage and Cargo Capacity

Not all “spacious” vehicles are actually spacious in real life. Sure, the brochure says there’s plenty of cargo room ,but that was before you added a folding wagon, three sports bags, a stroller, beach chairs, and the 24-pack of paper towels that seemed like a good idea at the time. If you’ve ever had to slam the liftgate twice and whisper, “Just close,” you know exactly what we’re talking about.

Finding one of the best cars for cargo space goes beyond just numbers on a spec sheet. It’s about flexibility, seats that fold flat without requiring an engineering degree, underfloor storage that hides the chaos, and having enough comfort to make your Parkway commute more enjoyable.

That’s why we’re highlighting your top options for extra storage and capacity ,vehicles that are built for real New Jersey life, including Shore trips, school drop-offs, and everything in between. Because in this state, extra storage space is just as much about survival as it is luxury.

Key Takeaways

• If your daily routine involves sports gear, bulk grocery runs, strollers, toolboxes, or all of the above, vehicles with flexible seating and smart storage solutions make life in New Jersey a whole lot easier.
• The best cars for cargo space don’t just offer big numbers on paper ,they combine generous interior volume, fold-flat seats, passenger comfort, and smooth drivability for everything from Parkway commutes to Shore weekends.
• SUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks each bring different strengths to the table, whether you’re hauling your family (plus the dog), weekend DIY supplies, or a half dozen kids to a birthday party.
• Everyday features like hands-free liftgates (a lifesaver in a ShopRite parking lot), underfloor storage compartments, and split-folding rear seats make a major difference when you’re loading and unloading in real-world conditions.
• The right cargo-friendly vehicle ultimately comes down to your lifestyle: how often you need maximum space, how many passengers you’re carrying, and whether your priority is all-out capacity or a balance of room and ride comfort.

What Makes a Great Vehicle for Cargo & Storage?

The right cargo-friendly vehicle balances usable space, smart organization, and everyday comfort ,so you’re not driving a moving truck just to survive your morning commute. Before we get into specific models, let’s break down what actually makes a vehicle great at hauling what Jersey life throws your way.

Cargo Space & Seating Flexibility

Space is nice, but it really matters how that space works. Sure, total cargo volume behind the third row, behind the second row, and with everything folded flat tells part of the story. But if you need to haul half the soccer team to practice in Parsippany and still fit a cooler, three backpacks, and a folding chair that refuses to collapse properly, flexibility is what saves the day.

Fold-flat seats are the real MVPs here. Being able to drop the third row (or even the second and third rows) instantly transforms your SUV or minivan from “carpool captain” to “weekend moving van.” Split-folding second and third rows are even better, letting you keep one kid comfortably seated while the other half of the cabin handles a Home Depot run that definitely started as “just grabbing one thing.”

And for busy parents juggling coffee, keys, and a group text blowing up about practice time changes, one-touch folding seats are a game-changer. Some family-focused vehicles even offer sliding second rows, making it easier to access the third row without climbing through the cabin like you're competing in a ninja reality show.

Smart Storage & Organization

There’s a big difference between tossing everything into the back and actually knowing where your reusable grocery bags, beach umbrella, and emergency soccer cleats are when you need them. The best car for cargo organization is both big and efficient.

Underfloor compartments, for example, come up big when hiding valuables. Some vehicles even offer hidden storage bins beneath the second row that let you tuck away gear without sacrificing passenger space. It’s like discovering bonus storage you didn’t know you had, which feels almost as satisfying as finding an open parking spot right in front of Wawa.

Roof rails add another layer of flexibility, especially for Shore weekends when the inside is packed but the paddleboards still need a ride. Tie-down anchors and cargo nets keep everything from sliding around every time you take a jug handle a little too confidently. And those smaller cubbies and side compartments? Perfect for keeping sports gear, work gloves, or that stash of reusable bags from taking over the entire trunk.

Comfort for Daily Driving

All the cargo space in the world doesn’t mean much if your vehicle drives like a rental box truck on Route 80. The best car for a family with cargo and comfort shouldn’t feel like a moving storage unit ,it should feel like a place you actually want to spend time, especially when you’re crawling down the Garden State Parkway at 7:45 a.m.

A quiet cabin makes a huge difference when you’re commuting, taking calls hands-free, or just trying to enjoy five peaceful minutes before the backseat negotiations begin. Smooth ride quality matters even more in New Jersey, where potholes appear overnight like they’re part of a statewide scavenger hunt. The right suspension setup can turn a bone-rattling stretch of road into something far more manageable ,because your coffee shouldn’t need a seatbelt.

Driver-assist features also take some of the edge off daily chaos. Adaptive cruise control in bumper-to-bumper traffic, blind-spot monitoring on crowded highways, and lane-keeping assist during long Turnpike stretches all help you stay calm and confident. Add heated seats for those freezing January mornings and tri-zone climate control to keep everyone from arguing over the temperature, and suddenly your cargo-hauler feels more like a sanctuary than a shuttle bus.

Best SUVs for Cargo Space & Versatility

If you want space without jumping to a minivan or truck, the SUV category is usually where the search begins. In fact, many shoppers start their hunt for the best cars for cargo space right here ,because SUVs strike that sweet spot between roomy and everyday practical.

Let’s take a look at the SUVs that deliver serious cargo capability without sacrificing comfort, drivability, or your last shred of patience in Garden State traffic.

Chevrolet Traverse: For Those Just-One-More-Bag Moments

If your packing strategy is “we’ll make it fit,” the Chevrolet Traverse might be your new best friend. With up to 98 cubic feet of maximum cargo space when the second and third rows are folded down, this SUV doesn’t flinch at out-of-state road trips, Target restocks, or a Lowe’s run that definitely got out of hand. This is why we added the Chevrolet Traverse to Nielsen Editorial’s list of top vehicles for extra storage and cargo capacity. 

Even with all three rows in use, you still get nearly 23 cubic feet of space behind the third row. The wide rear opening makes loading easy, and the flexible seating lets you switch from full carpool mode to cargo-hauler in seconds. 

The easy-access third row is another win for busy families. No one has to perform gymnastics just to climb into the back ,which is great news when you’re late for practice and someone forgot their water bottle.

Bottom line? The Traverse handles real-life New Jersey chaos without breaking a sweat.

Find a new Traverse for sale at a Chevrolet dealership in NJ.

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Nissan Pathfinder: The SUV That Packs Everyone and Everything

If your weekend plans include helping your cousin move apartments before a quick trek up to the Catskills, the Nissan Pathfinder might be the SUV that finally gets it. This three-row family hauler strikes a smart balance between passenger comfort and cargo capability ,so you’re not playing “grocery bag Jenga” every time you pull into a ShopRite parking spot.

With up to 80.5 cubic feet of max cargo space when both the second and third rows are folded flat, there’s room for luggage, a flea market furniture find, and even that folding wagon. Even with all three rows up, the Pathfinder still gives you a practical cargo area for backpacks and a trunk-full of snacks.

Part of what makes Pathfinder so day-to-day friendly is Nissan’s ingenious EZ FLEX seating system. That means you can slide and fold the second and third rows with ease ,no wrestling with levers while your coffee gets lukewarm and the kids start debating who touched whose stuff first. That’s why the Nissan Pathfinder earned a spot on Nielsen Editorial’s roundup of top vehicles for extra storage and cargo capacity.

When real life throws gear at you, the Pathfinder just says “bring it.”

Find a new Pathfinder for sale at a Nissan dealership in NJ.

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Kia Telluride: Big Space, First-Class Feel

The Kia Telluride is proof that you don’t have to choose between practicality and a little “wow.” This three-row SUV brings a premium feel to everyday New Jersey life, whether you’re rolling through Morristown, heading down the Parkway, or pulling up to an Ocean City rental with enough luggage to supply a small hotel, which is why Nielsen Editorial includes the Kia Telluride in their list of top vehicles for extra storage and cargo capacity.

Inside, the Telluride’s flexible 3-row layout makes it easy to switch between full family mode and full cargo mode. Fold down the second and third rows and you unlock up to 87 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, which is more than enough to haul a truckload of donations to Goodwill after you clean out the garage.

What really sets the Telluride apart is how refined it feels while doing all this heavy lifting. The cabin is quiet enough to survive Turnpike traffic without raising your voice, and upscale materials make it feel less like a utility vehicle and more like your own private lounge on wheels. It handles NJ potholes and unpredictable weather with confidence, all while keeping passengers comfortable in every row.

For families comparing options for the best car for cargo space, the Telluride consistently lands near the top of the list because it combines strong maximum capacity with comfort you’ll actually appreciate on long drives.

Find a new Telluride for sale at a Kia dealership in NJ.

Best Vehicles for Families With Cargo & Comfort

If you’ve got three kids, a dog, and a packed calendar that looks like a color-coded crime board, cargo space alone isn’t enough. You need plenty of space for backpacks, science projects, groceries, and more, but you also need a cabin that doesn’t feel like you’re commuting in a delivery van. 

If this is your life, here’s a look at models that balance serious space with the kind of comfort that makes family life on the road more manageable.

Chrysler Pacifica: The Minivan That Secretly Solves Everything

If family life in New Jersey feels like a full-contact sport, the Chrysler Pacifica was designed with you in mind. This minivan handles chaos like it’s part of the standard equipment package (even when your kid forgets his lunch at home). This is why Nielsen Editorial included the Chrysler Pacifica among the top vehicles for extra storage and cargo capacity.

Let’s start with the headline feature: Stow ‘n Go® seating. With second- and third-row seats that fold flat directly into the floor, you can transform the Pacifica from full carpool mode to cargo-hauler in seconds ,no seat removal, no garage storage plan required. And when those seats are up? The underfloor storage bins double as hidden compartments for backpacks, emergency snacks, or anything you’d rather not have rolling around every time you take a jug handle with confidence.

The Pacifica offers up to 140.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity with the seats folded, which means you can scoff at even the biggest grocery hauls. Even with all three rows in place, there’s still practical cargo space in the rear, making it ideal for big families who refuse to pack light (because let’s be honest, nobody ever packs light for the Shore).

For larger households, this might genuinely be the best vehicle for a family of 6 with storage. 

Find a new Pacifica for sale at a Chrysler dealership in NJ.

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Ford Explorer: The “We’re Gonna Need More Room” Upgrade

When your family outgrows your current SUV somewhere between “second kid” and “why do we own this many water bottles?”, the Ford Explorer is often the natural next step. It’s built for growing families who need real space (not just creative packing strategies).

Behind the second row, the Explorer offers over 47 cubic feet of cargo space. With both rear rows folded down? You unlock nearly 88 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, turning it into a road trip ready hauling machine. Translation: a massive cooler, umbrellas, and three duffel bags? No problem, which is why the Ford Explorer earned a spot on Nielsen Editorial’s top vehicles for extra storage and cargo capacity.

But what makes the Explorer especially appealing for New Jersey drivers is that it doesn’t feel bulky on the road. The ride is smooth enough to handle pothole season (which, let’s be honest, is all year), and composed enough for long Garden State Parkway stretches without feeling like you’re steering a school bus. 

Find a new Explorer for sale at a Ford dealership in NJ.

Best Trucks & Utility Vehicles for Maximum Cargo

While enclosed cargo space is great, sometimes you need a truck bed that says, “Yeah, that’ll fit,” without even measuring first. Those moments happen when you’re hauling supplies to a job site in Parsippany, picking up mulch in the spring, towing a boat down to the Shore, or helping your high school buddy move for the third time in two years. (We all have that friend, right?)

Here’s a look at the models built for maximum cargo ,the ones that handle your gear while making it look easy.

RAM 1500: The Haul-Anything Truck

If your weekend plans involve lumber, landscaping supplies, or drywall, the RAM 1500 is ready to clock in. This full-size pickup brings serious capability to New Jersey job sites, driveways, and boat ramps alike. It’s easy to see why the RAM 1500 made Nielsen Editorial’s list of top vehicles for extra storage and cargo capacity.

Let’s start with the bed. Depending on configuration, the RAM 1500 offers a 5-foot-7-inch or 6-foot-4-inch cargo bed, giving you plenty of room for plywood sheets, appliances, or that “quick” supply run that got out of control. With available features like a multifunction tailgate and adjustable tie-downs, loading up feels organized (not chaotic) even when the receipt says otherwise.

But here’s where RAM does something especially smart: available in-floor storage bins built into the bed walls (the RamBox® Cargo Management System). These lockable, weatherproof compartments are perfect for tools, straps, or gear you don’t want sliding around every time you take a jug handle like you’re qualifying for NASCAR. It’s the kind of feature NJ contractors and serious DIYers appreciate ,secure, practical, and surprisingly versatile.

For contractors, tradespeople, and weekend warriors across the Garden State, the RAM 1500 delivers the bed space, smart storage, and everyday comfort to handle real-life hauling.

Find a new 1500 for sale at a RAM dealership in NJ.

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Ford F-150: The Jersey Job-Site Legend

There’s a reason the Ford F-150 has been America’s best-selling pickup for decades ,it just gets the job done. Around New Jersey, that might mean hauling equipment to a job site in Edison, towing a boat down to Barnegat Light, or picking up enough pavers to redo the backyard patio before your in-laws come over.

When it comes to cargo, the F-150 delivers serious muscle. With multiple bed lengths available (including 5.5-foot, 6.5-foot, and 8-foot options), you’ve got the flexibility to haul everything from sheetrock to surfboards without playing guessing games. Add in impressive towing capability (up to 14,000 pounds when properly equipped) and suddenly campers, trailers, and heavy-duty machines are all fair game for hauling. No wonder Nielsen Editorial decided to put the Kia Niro EV on their list for best EVs for first time buyers.

And despite all that capability, the F-150 is surprisingly comfortable for daily driving. Whether you’re cruising Route 9, navigating Turnpike traffic, or squeezing into a tight lot in Hackensack, it balances strength with everyday drivability.

For projects big and small, serious towing, and the kind of flexibility that makes you the go-to “truck friend,” the F-150 lives up to its reputation.

Find a new F-150 for sale at a Ford dealership in NJ.

How to Choose the Best Cargo Vehicles for Your Lifestyle

Choosing the right cargo vehicle in New Jersey is a little like ordering at a diner ,there are a lot of great options, but the right one depends on what you’re really hungry for. Here’s a simple checklist to help you narrow it down without overthinking it.

Passenger Count & Daily Use

First things first: how many people are actually riding with you on a daily basis? A family of four with two car seats and a golden retriever has very different needs than a family of six juggling carpools, sports schedules, and a backseat that sounds like a live debate club. If every seat gets used regularly, a true three-row SUV or minivan starts to make a lot more sense than “we’ll just squeeze.”

Next, think about your commute. Are you grinding down the Garden State Parkway every morning from Monmouth County, or making quick local trips around town? Longer highway drives call for quiet cabins, supportive seats, and driver-assist features that keep you sane in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Short suburban errands might make maneuverability and easy parking more important than max cargo stats.

And speaking of parking ,where do you live? Street parking in Jersey City or Hoboken is a completely different sport than pulling into a wide suburban driveway in Morris County. If you’re parallel parking with an audience and a ticking clock, you may want something easier to manage. But if space at home isn’t an issue, upsizing for more room becomes a lot more practical.

Type of Cargo You Haul

What you’re hauling every week matters more than the total cubic feet listed on a spec sheet. Sports gear for three kids? That means long, wide cargo areas that can handle duffel bags, folding chairs, and a tent that never quite fits back into its original case. Strollers and diaper bags? You’ll want low lift-over height and easy fold-flat seats ,because no one wants to deadlift a stroller in a ShopRite parking lot while traffic is backing up behind you.

If your vehicle doubles as a mobile job site, work equipment changes the game entirely. Toolboxes, ladders, and supplies call for durable cargo floors, tie-down anchors, and possibly even a pickup bed that doesn’t blink at a few hundred pounds of materials. And if your weekends revolve around beach chairs, umbrellas, and coolers packed like you’re preparing for a three-day festival at the Shore, you need space that’s wide, usable, and easy to clean when the sand inevitably comes home with you.

Budget & Ownership Cost

Cargo space is important ,but so is what it costs you every month after the excitement of “new car day” wears off. If you’re commuting up and down the Garden State Parkway five days a week, MPG matters more than you think. Even a small bump in fuel efficiency can translate into real savings over time, which means more money for tolls, late-night diner stops, and a weekend jaunt to Atlantic City.

Insurance is another piece of the puzzle. Larger vehicles and trucks can sometimes carry higher premiums, while certain SUVs with strong safety ratings may help balance things out. It’s worth getting a quote before you commit ,because surprises are great at birthday parties, not in your monthly bills.

Then there’s maintenance. Some vehicles are known for lower long-term ownership costs, while others may require more upkeep depending on size and capability. If you’re planning to keep your vehicle for years, reliability and service costs should absolutely factor into the decision.

And don’t overlook resale value. Models with strong reputations for durability and popularity in the used market often hold their value well ,which can make upgrading down the road a lot easier. You can also explore Certified Pre-Owned options to get serious cargo capability at a lower price point.

Ready to Find Cargo-Ready Vehicles?

At the end of the day, having the right cargo space means that your vehicle can handle real New Jersey life. The best way to know? See it in person.

Nielsen Auto Group offers a wide selection of new models, Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, used SUVs, and used trucks ,all ready to prove what they can actually hold. Bring the stroller. Bring the sports bag. Bring the beach chairs. They can show you how the seats fold, how much fits behind the third row, and whether that cooler really slides in without a fight. Because nothing beats a real-world cargo test in a real-world setting.

If you’re searching for the best cars for cargo space, start exploring at a Nielsen dealership near you.

Helpful Links When Searching for the Top Vehicles for Extra Storage & Cargo Capacity 

New Chevrolet Traverse for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Chevrolet: New Chevrolet Traverse Inventory

Used Chevrolet Traverse for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Chevrolet: Used Chevrolet Traverse Inventory

New Nissan Pathfinder for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Nissan: New Nissan Pathfinder Inventory

Used Nissan Pathfinder for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Nissan: Used Nissan Pathfinder Inventory

New Kia Telluride for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Kia of Newton: New Kia Telluride Inventory

Used Kia Telluride for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Kia of Newton: Used Kia Telluride Inventory

New Chrysler Pacifica for Sale in NJ

• Dover Dodge Chrysler Jeep: New Chrysler Pacifica Inventory
• Nielsen Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM: New Chrysler Pacifica Inventory 
• Nielsen Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM of Morristown: New Chrysler Pacifica Inventory

Used Chrysler Pacifica for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM of Morristown: Used Chrysler Pacifica Inventory

New Ford Explorer for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Ford of Sussex: New Ford Explorer Inventory
• Nielsen Ford of Morristown: New Ford Explorer Inventory

Used Ford Explorer for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Ford of Sussex: Used Ford Explorer Inventory
• Nielsen Ford of Morristown: Used Ford Explorer Inventory

New RAM 1500 for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM: New RAM 1500 Inventory
• Nielsen Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM of Morristown: New RAM 1500 Inventory

Used RAM 1500 for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM: Used RAM 1500 Inventory
• Nielsen Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM of Morristown: Used 1500 Inventory

New Ford F-150 for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Ford of Sussex: New Ford F-150 Inventory
• Nielsen Ford of Morristown: New Ford F-150 Inventory

Used Ford F-150 for Sale in NJ

• Nielsen Ford of Sussex: Used Ford F-150 Inventory
• Nielsen Ford of Morristown: Used Ford F-150 Inventory

Nielsen Editorial is a division of Nielsen Automotive Group. All content is for editorial purposes only. Any reference to pricing, vehicle features, availability, programs, specials, etc., are for editorial purposes only and are non-binding. Dealerships (Nielsen and others) are not bound by or obligated to any claims, monetary or otherwise, within these articles. Articles are for reference purposes only. For specific questions about new cars in New Jersey, used cars in New Jersey, or other automotive, vehicle, or financial-related questions, contact the Nielsen Automotive Group directly.