When it comes to having a good under-seat truck/car subwoofer that can fit under any seat and be placed in the right place, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars for a bit of bass. With that being said, I’m going to share the best under-seat subwoofers that will fit under your seat or behind your car or truck seat, costing you little to no money. Below, I’ve included a list of the top 2025 car subwoofers that will fit under or behind any truck or car seat without issue, making sure you are satisfied with the results.

>> Click here to find the best subwoofers under the seat on Amazon.com <<

List of the Best Under the Seat Subwoofer Reviews 2025

Kenwood KSC-SW11 Review: Technical Deep Dive for Compact Car Audio

Compact subwoofers like the Kenwood KSC-SW11 have earned a strong following among drivers who want more bass without sacrificing space. This self-powered unit slides easily under seats and brings tighter low-end punch to factory or limited-upgrade systems. For those who need a smart, space-saving solution, the KSC-SW11 stands out as a top choice.

The Kenwood KSC-SW11 is a compact, powered subwoofer designed to fit in spaces most subs simply can’t. About the size of a small shoebox, it tucks neatly under most car seats. It uses a built-in 150-watt (peak) amplifier and an 8.25″ x 5.125″ aluminum subwoofer driver in a sealed, metal enclosure. Unlike traditional subwoofer setups, this unit does not require a separate amp or complex custom enclosure.

This subwoofer is ideal for:

• Drivers of sedans, hatchbacks, coupes and smaller SUVs with limited trunk space
• Those preferring a discreet or “stealth” installation
• Users looking to add low-end reinforcement to factory systems without major modification
• Anyone who values easy, straightforward upgrades that won’t overwhelm passengers with heavy bass

Sound Quality and Performance

Despite its small footprint, the Kenwood KSC-SW11 delivers tight, punchy bass that’s noticeable but not overpowering. With a frequency response that rolls off around 50 Hz, it won’t shake your rearview mirror, but it noticeably fills in the low end that factory speakers often lack.

User feedback consistently highlights:

• Balanced bass response that complements vocals and instrumentals
• Smooth integration with original speakers when tuned properly
• Best results with pop, rock, jazz, and acoustic music rather than for deep EDM or rap tracks requiring more sub-bass

Compared to full-size or custom box subs, expect more mid-bass punch than true subterranean lows. The clarity holds up at moderate to higher volumes, and most users report the absence of rattling or distortion when installed and tuned correctly.

Installation Experience

The KSC-SW11 is designed for ease of installation, even for those with minimal audio experience. The kit includes:

• All wiring needed for power, ground, and signal connections
• A small wired remote for adjusting gain, crossover, and phase

Installation steps involve:

1. Positioning the sub under a front seat or in the cargo area
2. Running power wire to the battery or fuse box (7.5A draw, 12 AWG recommended)
3. Tapping signal wires from rear or door speaker outputs (using supplied bullet connectors)
4. Securing the ground to an existing chassis ground point
5. Tidying wires with split conduit or zip ties to avoid moving parts

Most installers complete the process in two to four hours. The included remote can be mounted near the driver’s seat for quick adjustments.

Pros and Cons of the Kenwood KSC-SW11

Pros:

• Extremely compact and fits almost anywhere
• Plug-and-play setup with included harnesses and remote
• Noticeable improvement in bass for everyday music
• Minimal demand on electrical system and easy power requirements
• Durable build and no reports of significant overheating

Cons:

• Limited deep bass; won’t satisfy bass heads or those wanting “chest-thumping” lows
• Sound pressure is modest compared to large boxed subs
• Phase/polarity errors during wiring can reduce output, requiring careful setup
• Plastic trim and mounting tabs on the enclosure can feel a bit delicate

Value for money: Most users agree it’s a strong buy at under $200, especially for sound quality added to stock systems.

How the KSC-SW11 Compares to Other Compact Subwoofers

In 2025, the compact subwoofer market features models from RSL, Rockville, and Dayton. High-end home theater subs boast DSP, wireless controls, and 10- to 12-inch drivers. Automotive-focused compacts like the KSC-SW11, Rockville RW8CA, and certain slim Pioneer models focus on stealth installation and simplicity.

KSC-SW11 stands out for:

• Reliable, distortion-free output in small vehicles
• Strong user satisfaction for balance and build quality
• Consistently easy installation in tight spaces

Alternatives like the Rockville RW8CA may offer more power but often require more installation space or power draw. For users wanting room correction, app control, or extremely deep bass, higher-end (and pricier) models exist, but at the cost of size and complexity. For factory system upgrades or subtle enhancement, the Kenwood is hard to beat on features vs. price.

Conclusion

The Kenwood KSC-SW11 offers a practical solution for drivers wanting better bass in cramped or crowded vehicles. It’s not built for massive output or slapback bass, but it fills in where most factory setups are weakest. Those seeking a compact, no-hassle upgrade with easy installation and reliable performance will value what the KSC-SW11 delivers. For everyday music lovers and commuters, this powered subwoofer is a smart investment that balances quality, space, and price—earning high marks in any Kenwood KSC-SW11 review.

JBL BassPro SL2

• Low-profile, under-seat design blends well and stays out of sight.
• High-efficiency Class D amp uses less power and runs cooler.
• Known for “JBL sound” with rich, punchy bass and clear mids.
• Input flexibility fits both aftermarket and stock head units.

Alpine PWE-S8

• Ultra-compact subwoofer with a cast aluminum enclosure.
• 120W RMS/240W peak amp offers serious punch in small cars or trucks.
• Known for crisp, distortion-free output even at stronger settings.
• Easy to tuck out of sight, helping keep car interiors tidy.

Sound Storm Labs LOPRO10

• 10-inch, slim-profile subwoofer with built-in amp.
• Features high and low level inputs, making it a fit for almost any setup.
• Bass Boost and Variable Low Pass Filter give you control over your sound.
• Auto-on feature saves hassle during daily commutes.

Cerwin-Vega VPAS10

• Sturdy, under-seat design with heavy-duty housing.
• Fits tight spots without losing low-end power.
• Remote subwoofer control boosts flexibility.
• Solid sound and construction make it a strong pick for car audio upgrades.

Focal IBus 20

• French-engineered sub with clarity in mind.
• Slim and efficient, fits where most can’t.
• Low-pass filter tailors bass output for accurate, musical sound.
• Plug-and-play with most vehicles; quick install for busy schedules.

Under the seat car subwoofers bring life to your drive by adding rich, deep bass without sacrificing space. If you want great sound without cluttering your car, these models cover every need, from clear and precise bass to easy setup and rugged construction. Choose the right fit, and turn every trip into a concert. Which one suits your style and space best?

Best Under the Seat Car Subwoofer Guide for Audio Heads

The most important thing to consider when selecting the best car audio under-seat subwoofer is that it will fit under or behind your truck seat or car seat. Determining the dimensions is key before making a purchase. You don’t want to choose a subwoofer for your car or truck that’s not going to fit where you want it to.

Additionally, please consider how much bass you would like. You can pick between an 8-inch, 10-inch, or 12-inch under-seat subwoofer. However, most under-seat subwoofers that fit under your seat and are designed for medium bass with a built-in amplifier are the most cost-effective route to take. However, if you want a lot of bass, this is not the way to go.

Advantages of having the Best Under Seat Car Subwoofer

Having an the best under the seat car subwoofer can have many advantages. The greatest benefit of all is that these particular subwoofers for trucks or cars, are made for under your seat!

• Purchasing a top under the seat car subwoofder is the cheapest route to adding more bass to your sound system. The reason is that they have built-in amplifiers that subwoofer instead of having an external amplifier. A non-powered under-seat subwoofer for trucks or cars will not require installation and buying a car amplifier to power the sub.

• Are you limited to space in your vehicle? Or don’t want it to take up all the space in your trunk with a huge sub box? Getting slim sub is a thing and can slide under your seat. This type of sub is very common for people who have pick-up trucks because they lack room. Well, problem solved pick-up/truck drivers!

• Easy to install. If you are somewhat of a handyman then this job to install should be quite simple compared to buying an external amplifier and wiring that up as well. If you’re thinking about installing the powered underseat car sub yourself, I would suggest watching a quick 5-minute video tutorial on YouTube, which will show you exactly how it’s done.

• Versatility, as mentioned above, you can easily install under-the-seat car audio subs that provide supreme bass at a low cost and without taking up too much room in your vehicle. With that being said, you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to have your car audio system bump some bass while you drive down the road to work. Also, another great thing about subwoofers that fit under your car seat, is they usually have built-in amplifiers that will save you money and the hassle.

Choosing the Greatest Under the seat Subwoofer for Cars & Trucks

If you’re anything like me and on the road a lot, music is what makes the trip shorter, soothing, and more relaxing. Most people like to listen to music to help pass the time or make the long unwanted road shorter.

Most people think having a small car or truck that can’t have a small powered underseat car subwoofer that will fit under their truck or car seat. However, that is not the case. Any vehicle having a subwoofer is doable at a cheap cost. Below, we are going to share the top-rated subwoofers that will fit under your truck seat, car seat, or behind the bed in your truck. Without further due, below you can find some of the greatest under seat subwoofers that will fit under your car or truck seat.

Top Under the Seat Car Subwoofers by Brand

When it comes to car audio, having the brand can and will make a huge discrepancy in sound quality and performance. That’s why when choosing a good car audio manufacturer is always the right move. Below we’ve listed some of the stylish underseat subs that are powered. These brands we’d advise picking from. However, if you determine to purchase outside of one of these brands make sure you do your investigation on that singular brand and model.

• Kenwood
• Kicked
• Boss Audio
• Pioneer
• MTX

Reviews of the Most Popular Underseat Subwoofers

Kenwood KSC-SW11 Compact Powered Enclosed Subwoofer for Under Your Car Seat: You’re looking at the most prestige-powered sub on the market for the price. It’s 150 watts and if you’re looking for a little here and there for your car ride then this is the underseat sub for you. It has a built-in amplifier and costs very little money for a person who is looking for a little extra bass in the car or truck that will easily fit under the seat and not take up very much space.
Specifications

Brand: Kenwood’s Built-in Compact best car subwoofer with an aluminum enclosure
This unique bass-pounding machine has built-in requires a bare minimum of 75 RMS and has a peak power of 150 watts. That’s right this subwoofer has a built-in powered amplifier that has a peak power wattage of 150 root mean squared (RMS).

You can pretty much hook this bad boy up to any old or modern car or truck because of its under-the-seat capability and built-in powered car sub. The Kenwood KSC-SW11 comes with the ground cable and remote cable inside the original box. Noted above, the Kenwood KSC-SW11 Compact Powered Sub is one of the best you’re going to find on the market for the money.

Kenwood has been around since 1946. When Kasuga came to choose the name Kenwood, it was an acronym for the words: “Ken,” which is commonly used in North America as well as Japan and which American consumers had evaluated and found acceptable for Kenmore goods, and “The material wood,” both of which pointed out to a sturdy material and suggested a connection to Hollywood, California. Final thoughts on subwoofers for trucks & cars below…

When it comes to not having enough space in your car, truck, van, or whatever it is, this is the place where you can find it and make it work. You’ll find that you’re most common car audio sub sizes are somewhere from 8 inches to 10 inches. These are usually the best that sound the best under your seat in you’re truck, car, or maybe even in your van. With that being said, I hope you found this page useful in finding the greatest subwoofers that will produce maximum bass for little space and money. If you have any more questions comments, or concerns few free to email us with your vehicle specifications and we can help more with further options.

SSL LOPRO8 Slim Subwoofer for Trucks and Cars

The SSL LOPRO8 is one of the greatest slim subwoofers in its class for the price. It’s one of the top-selling subwoofers for 2025 because this company is focusing on serving quality subwoofers for the best price. When it comes to finding the best deals, I’d say this is the one for you. It has a built-in amplifier for under 100 dollars. I would say that’s not too bad considering it’s a huge add-on to your car audio system. 

Quick Specs:

• Size: 8-Inches
• Type: Powered under-seat Sub (built-in amp)
• Amp RMS Power: 400 wattage @ 4 Ohms
• Amp Peak Power: 600 wattage
• Low pass Filter: 20 to 150 Hz
• Subsonic Filter: 20 to 50 Hz

Another great thing about this sub is the RCA low-level outputs it can produce. The bass that the SSL LOPRO8 can produce for the money is just amazing compared to the higher-end brand names. It also comes with a soft delay remote turn-on for protection. This subwoofer includes a remote that comes up from under the seat so you can control the power of the amplifier to produce more or less bass. Having this is a plus because you don’t have to crawl under your seat or pull the car sub out to control the power level like some of the competitors.

All in all, this is the best bang for you’re buck when it comes to choosing a new sub. I’d say for 100 dollars adding some extra bass that will change the whole meaning of your current sound system with a simple upgrade to a slim underseat car sub.

So what is the best? Well, to be honest, there isn’t a “best”. It’s all based on factors and preferences when it comes to what’s right for you. Adding a new sub or upgrading your previous one is the biggest upgrade you can make to your car’s audio sound system. If you looking for more ways to improve your car audio system then adding more bass is the right way to go.

The amount of bass you want is a must when choosing a new car subwoofer. There are several sizes to choose from: 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch, and even 15-inch subs. Remember, when choosing, knowing how much bass you want and how much space you have to work with will save you a headache. Lastly, if you’re looking for extreme bass, I recommend getting dual car subwoofers or a big single one that has a lot of watts.

Our # 1 Pick Best Under seat Car Subwoofer Review

MTX Terminator Series TNE212D Review

The MTX Terminator Series TNE212D subwoofer is extremely powerful and blows most of the other competitors right out of the water. It’s the perfect starter kit subwoofer on the market and the greatest perk of them all is the price. Costing roughly $150, you won’t find another subwoofer that produces low-level, hard-hitting bass like this MTX 12-inch subwoofer. We can go on and on about the positive features and what people have said about this subwoofer. However, we are not going to see here and bore you over that. Let’s see what this bad boy is all about and hear why we this is the subwoofer for you’re top car subwoofer for 2025 Christmas time!

Quick Specs:

• Subwoofer Size: Dual 12-inch
• Box Type: Vented
• Box Dimension: 14 x 29 x 13 inches
• RMS Power: 400 watts
• Peak Power: 600 watts
• Max Power: 1200 watts
• Nominal Impedance: 2 Ohms
• Frequency Response: 37 Hz – 150 Hz

While doing some research on the MTX Terminator Series TNE212D I found out that a lot of people are suggesting using the MTX THUNDER500.1 Amplifier setup. MTX Audio suggests this particular amplifier for these subs for a reason. You always want to match your car audio sub and car amplifier accordingly to get the top performance from both. This amplifier can put out a constant 500-watt RMS which is the perfect amount of watts for these.

All in all, for the price of these, you won’t find another that can outperform them. For most subwoofers, you have to buy the box separately and it ends up costing even more. With this special combo package, you’re saving yourself not only money but also time installing the woofer into the box. Trust me, I know this can be a pain in the butt process because it has to be sealed perfecting for amazing quality bass.

Types of Car Sub Woofers

As I mentioned previously, car woofers come in all different sizes, shapes, and types. Were not going to sit here and argue about which is better because we are all different and each of us has a different preference. I know I have a preference for subwoofer brands and sizes and I’m sure most of you car audio junkies have an audio brand preference as well. Anyway, let us get to the point and check out some of the different types of car woofers.

Powered Car & Truck Subs

Powered car and truck woofers are great for people who are not looking to take up too much space or spend a lot of money. The first thing you should know about powered subwoofers is that they have built-in amplifiers to power the woofer. There’s no need to go out and buy a car amplifier with this type of sub. It also makes in-stalling much easier and not as complex as adding an external amplifier.

The only downside to a powered sub is they are not the subwoofer that’s going to give you extreme bass that rattles house windows. They are typically around 100 watts to 300 watts RMS. The built-in amplifiers are just as powerful because they are mainly for people who want a little bass and save room when you don’t have the extra room.

If you’re looking to save room I would suggest an under-seat subwoofer that has an internal amplifier. One great thing about these is the location that it’s being placed in. Why I say this, is because it’s enclosed and gives the bass a chance to bounce and make it sound even better.

Best Enclosed Under Car Seat Sub Woofers 2025

These are just like as they sound “enclosed” which are already in a box for you. However, sometimes they come with an amplifier or sometimes they don’t. If you search around on Amazon you can find package deals that include everything you will need. These package deals include; an enclosed box, speaker wire, amplifier, amplifier wires, and everything else that you will need to hook up your new car audio bass package.

When picking an enclosed one, always make sure you check the dimensions to find out whether it’s going to fit in your car truck or wherever you plan on putting it. You don’t want to go big and end up receiving the product and it doesn’t fit. This can easily be avoided by taking the time to check the woofer box dimensions and measuring the location of your car where the car sub is going.

Shallow Mount – Best Car Under the Seat Suboofer

Shallow mount under the seat subwoofers were designed to be compact, while still putting out some extreme bass. The woofer-driver is much more narrow than your average subwoofer and is very similar to a powered subwoofer. However, shallow-mount subwoofers do not have any built-in car amplifiers and need to be purchased separately, unless you already have a pre-existing amplifier. Shallow mounts woofers in all sizes, which the following are; 8”, 10” 12”, and even 15”.

More of the Best Under the seat Car Subwoofer Reviews

Below we review some more great car underseat subwoofers we recommend checking out. Some of these subwoofers already include a box enclosure and some of them are just the subwoofer driver only.

JBL GT-BassPro12 Powered Car Subwoofer

The JBL GT-BassPro12 Powered underseat Subwoofer is one of JBL top powered car subwoofer for the money. It has a built-in 150-watt amplifier and delivers a high output and low bass to you’re car audio sound system without spending too much money. If you’re looking to add bass to your audio system and don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars then buying the JBL GT-BassPro12 Powered is the top under seat car Subwoofer is the way to go.

It has a slipstream port that provides excellent bass sound without distortion even when it performs at its highest output levels. It also has a built-in remote level control to easily control the power of the bass. You can adjust these settings to the environment of your car to make it sound the best by tweaking the levels. This feature is great for the person who wants the desired sound from their subwoofer.

All in all, this is the greatest under seat car subwoofer under $150 that produces great low bass and does not require and car amplifier to power. It’s a powered subwoofer with a built-in amp that is perfectly set up already for you.

Understanding Under the seat Car Subwoofers: Foundations of Bass Enhancement

Types of Car Subwoofers

• Free-air (Infinite Biston): These are installed directly in the vehicle without a box. They’re easy to set up but usually less powerful and suited for specific vehicles.
• Enclosed Subwoofers: These come in an box, which improves sound and output. They’re the most common type and perfect for many cars.
• Component vs. Full-range Subwoofers: Full-range subwoofers cover a wide bass spectrum, while component models offer more customization. Choose based on your preference for sound clarity and bass depth.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Car Subwoofer

Size and Power Handling

Under the seat, car subwoofer size matters. When selecting a subwoofer, consider these factors:

Size: Smaller subwoofers, such as 8-inch models, are ideal for compact spaces but produce less powerful bass. Larger sizes, such as a 12-inch or 15-inch car audio subwoofer, offer deeper and louder sound.

Power Rating: RMS (Root Mean Square) indicates the continuous power the subwoofer can handle without damage. Peak wattage represents the maximum power the subwoofer can handle for short periods.

Matching Power: For optimal performance, match your subwoofer’s power rating to your amplifier.Smaller ones, like 8”, fit in compact spaces but produce less bass. Larger sizes, like 12” or 15”, give deeper, louder sounds. Also, check the power rating — RMS tells you how much continuous power the under the seat subwoofer can handle without damage, while peak wattage shows what it can handle briefly. Match your subwoofer’s power to your amplifier for best results.

Impedance and Compatibility

Impedance affects both the sound quality and compatibility of car audio systems. Many subwoofers are 4 ohms, but some are 2 ohms or 8 ohms. The lower the impedance, the more power it draws, but it also requires a matching amplifier. Always ensure that your amplifier matches the subwoofer’s impedance to avoid damage and optimize sound quality.

Enclosure Types and Their Impact

• Sealed Enclosures: A compact and airtight design is key to achieving the best sound quality. They give tight, accurate bass and are suitable for small spaces.
• Ported Enclosures Have a hole or port, making them louder with more bass output. They’re perfect for a booming sound.
• Bandpass Enclosures: Combine features to give high efficiency and specific sound qualities. Usually more complex to set up but deliver powerful bass.

Choose the enclosure type based on your taste — tight and precise or loud and booming.

Sensitivity and Frequency Response

Higher sensitivity means louder bass with less power. Frequency response indicates the range of sounds an under seat subwoofer can produce. Deep bass often falls below 50Hz, so look for models that reach at least that low. A wider frequency range provides better clarity and depth for your favorite music.

Additional Features

• Dual Voice Coils: Offer wiring flexibility to create different setups.
• Built-in Amplifiers: Combine the subwoofer with an amplifier, saving space and simplifying setup.
• Material Quality: Strong cones made of materials like Kevlar or polypropylene last longer and sound better. The surround material impacts durability and performance.

Installing and Optimizing Your Under the Seat Car Subwoofer System

Placement and Sound Tuning

Where you put your underseat subwoofers matters. Common locations include the trunk, rear deck, or under seats. Placing a under the seat subwoofer in the trunk often produces the best bass. Use sound deadening materials to block vibrations and improve sound clarity. Proper tuning ensures smooth, deep sound without distortion.

Amplifier Selection and Wiring

Choose an amplifier to match your car subwoofer’s power needs. Ensure it can handle the impedance and wattage. When wiring multiple subwoofers, follow proper configurations like parallel or series wiring. Correct wiring and matching are critical for peak performance and longevity.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Check wiring connections regularly. Watch for signs of distortion, weak bass, or overheating. Clean terminals and secure connections improve sound. When performance drops, consider upgrading components or increasing amplifier power to regain the bass punch.

Popular under the seat Car Subwoofer Brands Today

Leading Brands

• JL Audio: Known for quality and clarity.
• Rockford Fosgate: Offers durability and loud output.
• Alpine: Leading in innovation and sound precision.
• Kicker: Popular for affordable, powerful subs.
• Sundown Audio: Specializes in high-performance models.

Top Models in Various Categories

• Entry-level: Kicker 12″ Comp (great for beginners).
• High-end: JL Audio W7 series for audiophiles seeking true sound clarity.
• Small cars: 8″ shallow-mounted models fit in tighter spaces.
• Customer favorites: Sundown SA-12 for deep bass and durability.

Cost and Budgeting for Car Subwoofers

Prices range from around $50 for basic models to over $1,000 for premium subs. Sometimes spending more guarantees longer durability and better sound. Consider installation costs as well; a professional setup improves performance. Look for bundles or packages to save money.

Conclusion

Selecting the ideal under-seat truck or car subwoofer is crucial for achieving the powerful and precise bass you desire. Consider factors such as size, power, enclosure, and how you typically use your vehicle. Proper installation will enhance your experience, while regular maintenance ensures your system runs smoothly. Investing in high-quality under-seat car subwoofers transforms your driving experience into a concert on wheels. Start shopping smart, and enjoy every beat with deep, rich bass.