Geezzz... stuck in the middle here. :lol: All my SUV's have had 2nd row bench... but the other day I tried out a new Tahoe with the buckets and it felt so much more roomy. Then again, I like to carry stuff in the rear cargo area, and would pull the thrid row seat, thus exposing all my stuff. My fishing rods would fit well between the buckets. Then again on a long trip we sometimes climb into the second row for a nap.
I have not a clue which way to go... maybe a flip of the coin?
Is there a preferred order pattern to this choice?
i think it depends on what ur going to use the truck for, and what use you are trying to fill. i don't have any kids yet, and usually take 4 people including self to the mountains/lake or to a football game. so the rear captains are AWESOME. The space in between the seats is perfect for the small cooler. for driving more than 4 people, it depends if u have other gear (fishing, etc). The third row doesn't fit adults very well. so for more than 4 people, i'd rather have a 2nd row bench and no 3rd row rather than 2 captains and 3rd row. also, if u have people in the 3rd row, u have almost NO cargo room in the back. the only solution there would be to go with the Yukon XL or 'burban...
in the end im glad i have the captains. if an extra friend wants to come along, he can drive himself...