Some Toyota SUVs are way more practical than others
Toyota sells nine different SUVs in America, and the choices expand rapidly once you take into account all the different powertrains and trims. But regardless of the type of SUV you need, you’re likely interested in one for the added versatility it brings over a hatchback or sedan. A lot of that versatility is based upon a well-sized trunk, so if your family has not mastered the art of packing lightly, which Toyota SUV is best for you?
We’ve ranked each model by their available trunk space, from smallest to biggest. We’ve based this ranking on trunk space behind the second row, as this is the fairest means of comparing two- and three-row models.
9. Toyota Corolla Cross: 24 Cubic Feet
Toyota
Toyota
Unsurprisingly, Toyota’s cheapest crossover has the smallest trunk. Behind the second row, you get 24 cubic feet of space, which roughly aligns with other strong competitors in this segment. It’s a lot more space than you’ll get in a Corolla sedan of the same price, making the Corolla Cross a practical alternative for a young family.
Cargo space reduces slightly to 21.5 cu-ft if you go for either all-wheel-drive or hybrid models. We’d recommend the hybrid, as its 196-horsepower output is a lot stronger than the gas model’s 169 hp.
8. Toyota Crown Signia: 25.8 Cubic Feet
Toyota
Toyota
The Toyota Crown Signia is a midsize model, so it’s a whole two segments above the Corolla Cross. Despite its larger size, the trunk isn’t all that huge at 25.8 cu-ft, and it’s one cubic-foot smaller if you get the optional panoramic roof.
The Crown Signia is not as much about maximizing space as some other Toyota crossovers, though. Rather, this should be viewed as a more affordable alternative to Lexus. From its attractive styling to its high-end cabin, it’s a cut above most Toyotas. This is a hybrid-only model with 243 hp, so efficiency is another strong point.
7. Toyota bZ: 27.7 Cubic Feet
Toyota
Toyota
Formerly known as the bZ4X (note that the bZ4X’s trunk is pictured above), Toyota’s only electric crossover (for now) has been renamed the bZ. Another two-row model, it’s got a slightly bigger trunk than the Crown Signia. There’s an optional JBL sound system that reduces cargo capacity to 25.8 cu-ft, matching the Crown Signia.
Toyota made many significant changes to the 2026 bZ besides its name change. AWD models now produce 338 hp, way up on the outgoing model’s 215 hp. Its range is up by 25% and the vehicle looks a little sharper, too.
6. Toyota RAV4: 37.8 Cubic Feet
The all-new, 2026 Toyota RAV4 begins arriving at dealerships this December. It’s similar in size to the outgoing model, which explains why the cargo area is roughly the same, too, at 37.8 cubic feet. That applies to the normal hybrids that arrive first, but the more powerful plug-in hybrids (with 324 hp) will have a slightly smaller trunk, at 33.6 cu-ft. In both cases, that’s a decent amount of space, although the Honda CR-V ultimately has a bigger trunk.
The new RAV4 is now a hybrid-only crossover, much like every Camry model is now a hybrid. The RAV4 impressed us when we drove it, and the new infotainment system works well, too. It’s expected to retain its best-seller status.
5. Toyota Land Cruiser: 46.2 Cubic Feet
Joe Santos/Autoblog
Joe Santos
It’s a big step up in space and versatility from the RAV4 to the Land Cruiser. Although the Land Cruiser is now a smaller mid-size model, it’s not exactly small, so cargo space rises to a generous 46.2 cu-ft, which is enough for all your adventure gear. This is the first proper SUV on the list with a body-on-frame structure, so you can actually take it on off-roading jaunts.
A hybrid engine produces 326 hp combined, a marked departure from the older Land Cruiser’s gas-guzzling V8. As it’s smaller than the older Land Cruiser, it no longer offers a third row, so keep that in mind if you need extra seating capacity.
4. Toyota Highlander: 48.4 Cubic Feet
Toyota
Toyota
The Highlander is Toyota’s long-running three-row crossover. It has a slightly bigger trunk than the Land Cruiser, despite accommodating a third row. Up to eight people can be seated in the Highlander, but those in the third row won’t be especially comfortable, as it’s quite cramped back there. The base model has 265 hp from a 2.4-liter turbo-four, but a 243-hp hybrid is also available.
The Highlander’s main problem is the Grand Highlander. Not only is the latter newer, but it’s somehow cheaper and has a more accommodating third row, too. As we’ll see, it also has a bigger trunk.
3. Toyota 4Runner: 48.4 Cubic Feet
Toyota
Toyota
The 4Runner is a totally different prospect to the Highlander, being a body-on-frame SUV, yet its trunk space behind the second row is exactly the same. We’ve ranked the 4Runner above the Highlander as it has more space when the second row is folded flat too. Trunk space in the 4Runner drops to 44.8 cu-ft if you specify the model with three rows, and goes down further to 42.6 cu-ft for the two-row hybrid.
If the Land Cruiser is too expensive and you need a reliable, capable Toyota off-roader, this is your best bet. Power comes from either a 278-hp turbo-four or a 326-hp hybrid. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but part-time and full-time 4×4 systems are available.
2. Toyota Sequoia: 49 Cubic Feet
Toyota
Toyota
This is Toyota’s largest SUV, but it’s not the one with the most trunk space. The body-on-frame Sequoia gets 49 cu-ft behind its second row and it’s capable of seating up to eight people. Third-row space isn’t exceptional, though, but the Sequoia sure has the power it needs when fully loaded with cargo and people. The 3.4L twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine produces 437 hp and a stout 583 lb-ft of torque, so it always feels perky.
The range-topping Sequoia Capstone has some truly upscale features and finishes, but it costs way north of $80,000, placing it alongside some true luxury SUVs.
1. Toyota Grand Highlander: 57.9 Cubic Feet
Toyota
Toyota
Other than the Sienna minivan, the Grand Highlander is Toyota’s most practical vehicle for hauling people and their stuff. The trunk measures 57.9 cu-ft behind the second row, more than twice the size of the Crown Signia’s trunk. And, unlike the Highlander, the Grand Highlander has more space and comfort for third-row passengers.
Three powertrains are available, with the gas model (265 hp) and standard hybrid (245 hp combined) matching the normal Highlander. But there’s also the Hybrid Max, which pairs the 2.4L turbo-four with electric motors to produce 362 hp. This will allow you to comfortably keep up with traffic, even if you’re moving a full house of occupants.
With its massive trunk, spacious seating, and 13 cup and bottle holders, this is the most family-friendly Toyota SUV on sale.
About the author
Karl Furlong
Senior Editor, Autoblog