Captains Chairs, a sought-after feature in SUVs, offer enhanced comfort and a touch of luxury, particularly for second-row passengers. However, choosing this configuration involves considering various factors beyond just plush seating. This discussion delves into the nuances of captains chairs in SUVs, drawing upon real-world observations regarding vehicle size, entertainment systems, and practical concerns like car seat installation and third-row access.
When considering SUVs with captains chairs, the sheer size of the vehicle becomes immediately apparent. American SUVs like the Yukon, Suburban, and Escalade, while offering impressive space, especially in extended wheelbase versions equipped with captains chairs, can feel cumbersome to drive. Their truck-like origins translate to a driving experience that differs significantly from more car-like SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GL/GLS or BMW X7. The Navigator, while also a large SUV, notably maximizes third-row space even in its standard wheelbase configuration, showcasing efficient packaging among American contenders and boasting an appealing interior. Despite these advantages, even standard wheelbase Navigators remain substantial vehicles with a distinct driving feel compared to their European counterparts.
Another aspect to consider with captains chairs, especially in family vehicles, is in-seat entertainment. While integrated systems appear neater than plug-in accessories, they present a daily risk of damage. These built-in screens, though less protruding than add-on devices, are still vulnerable to accidental bumps or rough handling, potentially even during routine car washes where detailing staff might not exercise sufficient caution around them.
The configuration of captains chairs significantly impacts third-row access, particularly when car seats are involved. Regardless of whether car seats are installed using LATCH and tethers, seatbelts without tethers, or a combination of both, captains chairs inherently restrict passage to the third row. This is in contrast to bench seat installations where certain methods (like LATCH and tether only) can maintain third-row access because the tether hook is located on the seat itself. The seatbelt installation method, common for both bench and captains chairs, further complicates access because the seatbelt originates from the C-pillar of the vehicle. Once a car seat is tightly secured with a seatbelt from this fixed point, it effectively blocks movement and hinders third-row entry.
A point of curiosity revolves around demonstrations showing seemingly easy car seat movement even with captains chairs. The exact method to achieve this maneuverability remains unclear. Expert opinions suggest that replicating such movement with typical car seat installations in captains chairs proves challenging. Despite the multitude of adjustable settings and features in modern SUVs, achieving the demonstrated flexibility may be more complex than initially perceived. It’s worth noting that potential future designs, such as in upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLS models, might explore seatbelt integration directly into the captains chairs themselves, rather than the C-pillar. While precedents exist for seat-integrated belts in Mercedes-Benz vehicles dating back to the 1990s, the R-Class captains chairs still utilized pillar-mounted belts, suggesting design complexities and safety considerations likely favor the C-pillar approach for now.
In conclusion, captains chairs offer a comfortable and spacious second row in SUVs, but necessitate careful consideration of vehicle size, potential entertainment system vulnerabilities, and, crucially, the implications for third-row accessibility, especially for families using car seats. Understanding these trade-offs ensures informed decision-making when selecting an SUV configuration that best balances comfort with practical needs.
