When choosing a pickup truck, the cab size is a crucial consideration that can significantly impact your driving experience and the truck’s overall functionality. Two popular cab options are crew cabs and extended cabs, each offering unique advantages and drawbacks.
Extended Cab vs. Crew Cab
Extended Cab
- Rear doors are smaller and hinged at the rear.
- Limited rear seating space, suitable for occasional passengers or children.
- Larger cargo bed length compared to crew cabs.
- Typically more affordable than crew cabs.
Crew Cab
- Full-size rear doors for easy entry and exit.
- Spacious rear seats with ample legroom, similar to a sedan or SUV.
- Larger cargo space behind the rear seats.
- Shorter bed length compared to extended cabs.
- Typically more expensive than extended cabs.
Which Cab Size is Right for You?
The best cab size for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Passenger Needs: How many passengers do you typically transport, and do they require additional legroom?
- Cargo Capacity: How much cargo do you need to haul on a regular basis?
- Bed Length: Do you need a long bed for specific tasks, such as hauling equipment or materials?
- Budget: Consider the cost difference between extended and crew cabs.
Extended Cab
Extended cabs are ideal for individuals who prioritize bed length and affordability. They offer a longer bed length for hauling larger items, while the rear jump seats can accommodate occasional passengers or small children.
Crew Cab
Crew cabs are perfect for those who need more rear passenger and cargo space. They provide a spacious interior with full-sized rear seats and ample cargo room behind the seats. However, they come with a shorter bed length and a higher price tag.
Remember, the choice between an extended cab and a crew cab is ultimately a matter of balancing your needs and priorities. By considering the key factors discussed above, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your pickup truck ownership experience.
What is the difference between crew cab and extended cab?
Crew cab pickup trucks offer four full-sized doors and a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate five or six passengers. Extended cab trucks, on the other hand, have two full-sized front doors and two smaller, rear-hinged doors that provide limited access to a smaller rear seating area. Crew cabs are more suitable for families and frequent passenger transport, while extended cabs are a good compromise for those who need occasional passenger seating and a longer bed length.
What is an extended cab?
An extended cab pickup truck has two full-sized front doors and two smaller, rear-hinged doors that open backward. It provides limited rear seating space, making it suitable for occasional passengers or small items. Extended cabs offer a longer bed length compared to crew cabs, making them more suitable for hauling cargo.
What is a crew cab?
A crew cab pickup truck has four full-sized doors and a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate five or six passengers. It offers full-size rear seats with ample legroom and a generous amount of cargo space behind the seats. Crew cabs have a shorter bed length compared to extended cabs, making them more suitable for passenger transport.
What type of cab is right for me?
The choice between an extended cab and a crew cab pickup truck depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as the number of passengers you typically transport, the amount of cargo you need to haul regularly, the desired bed length, and your budget. Extended cabs are more affordable and offer a longer bed length, while crew cabs provide more passenger and cargo space.

Cab Type | Passengers | Cargo Capacity | Passenger Space | Functionality | Cost | Suitability |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Regular Cab | 2 | Largest (6.5-8 feet) | Most limited | Best for solo drivers or work trucks | Least expensive | Suitable for single drivers or those with minimal passenger needs |
Extended Cab | 4 | Medium (5.5-6.5 feet) | Some additional space, but still cramped | Offers some versatility with occasional passenger use | Moderately priced | Good for occasional passenger use and small families |
Crew Cab | 5-6 | Smallest (5-6 feet) | Most generous | Ideal for families, frequent passengers, and daily commutes | Most expensive | Perfect for families, daily commutes, and frequent passenger transport |