what is a crew cab vs extended cab

2 min read 25-12-2024

Choosing between a crew cab and an extended cab truck can be tough. Both offer more space than a regular cab, but their layouts and features differ significantly. This guide breaks down the key distinctions to help you make the right decision.

Understanding Truck Cab Styles

Before diving into the comparison, let's clarify the different truck cab styles:

Regular Cab: This is the most basic configuration, typically seating only two people.
Extended Cab (or Access Cab): This style adds small rear doors and extra seating space behind the front seats. However, this space is usually cramped and more suitable for children or occasional passengers. Legroom is limited.
Crew Cab (or Double Cab): This offers four full-size doors and a spacious back seat, providing comfortable seating for four adults.

Crew Cab vs. Extended Cab: A Detailed Comparison

Here's a head-to-head comparison to highlight the key differences:

Seating Capacity and Comfort

Crew Cab: Provides comfortable seating for four adults. Passengers in the back seat enjoy ample legroom and headroom.
Extended Cab: Offers additional seating behind the front seats, but the space is usually cramped, best suited for children or short journeys. Legroom is significantly less than a crew cab.

Passenger Space

Crew Cab: Offers a full-size back seat with ample space for passengers. This is ideal for families or those who frequently carry passengers.
Extended Cab: The rear seats are smaller and less comfortable than in a crew cab. Suitable for occasional passengers or cargo storage instead of seating.

Cargo Space

Crew Cab: While offering more passenger space, crew cabs may have slightly less cargo space behind the rear seats than extended cabs, depending on the specific truck model.
Extended Cab: The limited rear seating often leaves more space behind the seats for larger cargo items, although access may be restricted by the small rear doors.

Price

Crew Cab: Generally more expensive than extended cabs due to the added space, features, and engineering.
Extended Cab: Typically more affordable than crew cabs, making it a cost-effective option for those who don't need four full-size doors and a spacious backseat.

Practicality and Use Cases

Crew Cab: Ideal for families, contractors, or anyone who needs to frequently transport passengers comfortably.
Extended Cab: Better suited for individuals or couples who occasionally need extra passenger or cargo space. A good choice for someone on a budget.

Which Cab Style is Right for You?

Consider your needs and priorities:

Family or frequent passengers: A crew cab offers the most comfortable and practical solution.
Limited budget and occasional passengers: An extended cab is a cost-effective alternative.
Maximize cargo space: An extended cab often provides more cargo room behind the seats, although access may be limited.
Comfort and practicality are paramount: Choose a crew cab for a superior passenger experience.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and lifestyle. Test driving both a crew cab and an extended cab will help you determine which configuration best fits your requirements. Remember to factor in price, passenger needs, and cargo capacity when making your decision.