I wonder if there was a change in "latching" mechanisms for the rear seat (between your 1999 and my 2001)? On my 2001, the top half of the rear seat backs fold (forward and) down. Then you release a floor latch that allows the entire seat to pivot up and to the front. From there, I have to "hook" a tether into the floor. After doing this, the tether has a cinch (like a belt) and velcro to hold it from releasing. There is no latch for the folded/upright position! As such, the "tether" could be adjusted (loosened) to allow further recline in the front seat. The downside is the seats rub against each other while driving -- making an annoying leather-squeak noise. If I ran it with the rear seat upright more often, I'd probably cover the back of the front seat in another material OR remove the rear seat.
When you categorize the rear cargo area's size, I it depends on whether you're comparing it to a car, something smallish like a RAV4, or a Suburban. I would venture a guess that it's smaller/shorter than most SUVs and...as such...doesn't warrant a claim of spaciousness in the SUV category. It's a bit smaller/shorter than my last gen Jeep Cherokee (last entry in the article); It's over a foot shorter than my 1st gen Grand Cherokee; and it's also foot shorter than my ex's Murano.Originally Posted by ipd