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Does the Pilot have 7 seats?

Yes. The Honda Pilot can be configured to seat seven or eight passengers, depending on trim and options. In most current models, eight seats are standard with a three‑seat second row, while a seven‑seat setup is possible when the second row uses captain’s chairs.


In practical terms, the Pilot’s interior is three rows tall. The key choice is the second-row arrangement: a three-passenger bench yields eight seats in total, while two captain’s chairs in the second row reduce seating to seven. Availability varies by model year, trim level, and market, so it’s important to verify the exact configuration for a given vehicle.


Seating configurations in recent Honda Pilot models


Here are the two primary seating layouts you’ll encounter on the current Pilot lineup.



  • Eight-passenger configuration: second-row bench seat (three seats) plus a three-seat third row.

  • Seven-passenger configuration: second-row captain’s chairs (two seats) plus a three-seat third row.


These configurations determine how many people can ride comfortably and how much cargo space remains with seats in use. Availability of each setup depends on the model year and the trim package, so buyers should confirm the exact seating option when shopping.


Trim- and year-specific notes


Captain’s chairs in the second row are typically offered on higher trims or as part of optional packages. The baseline eight-passenger layout with a 2nd-row bench remains common across many trims, but the seven-passenger arrangement is a popular choice for buyers prioritizing easier access to the third row or more comfortable seating for adults in the middle row. Always check the current model year’s brochure or a local dealer for precise specifications.


Impact on cargo and usability


Switching from an eight- to a seven-passenger setup changes the usable middle-row space. With captain’s chairs, you gain easier access to the third row and more passenger comfort, while a full bench can accommodate one more traveler but can make entry to the third row slightly more cumbersome. Cargo space behind the third row remains substantial in either configuration, though it can decrease when the second row is in use and particularly when the third row is folded flat.


Summary


Bottom line: the Honda Pilot can offer seven or eight seats, depending on the second-row arrangement and trim. A seven-seat configuration uses captain’s chairs in the second row, while an eight-seat setup uses a three-passenger bench. Confirm the exact seating layout for the model year and trim you’re considering to ensure it meets your needs.

Does the Honda Pilot have a 3rd-row seat?


Yes, all modern Honda Pilot models come with a third row of seating, typically accommodating up to eight passengers depending on the trim level. The third row can be folded down to increase cargo space, and features like one-touch slide seats in the second row make it easier to access the back.
 
Seating and configuration

  • Standard: The Honda Pilot is a three-row SUV designed to seat up to eight people in most configurations. 
  • Trim-dependent capacity: Some upper trims, like the Elite, may have second-row captain's chairs, which lowers the total passenger capacity to seven. 
  • Fold-flat seats: Both the second and third rows can be folded down to maximize cargo room. 

Third-row access and comfort
  • Easy access: The Pilot features one-touch slide buttons on the second-row seats for easier entry and exit to the third row. 
  • Passenger space: The third row offers a comfortable amount of legroom and headroom, with some models also providing reclining seats. 



Which is bigger, Highlander or Pilot?


The Honda Pilot is bigger than the Toyota Highlander, with a longer and wider body that results in more interior space for passengers and cargo. For example, the Pilot offers more legroom in the third row and greater maximum cargo capacity.
 

Feature Honda Pilot Toyota Highlander
Length 199.9 inches 194.9 inches
Width 78.5 inches 76 inches
Third-row legroom 32.5 inches 28 inches
Cargo space (behind 3rd row) 18.6 cubic feet 16 cubic feet
Maximum cargo space 87 cubic feet 84.3 cubic feet
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Is the Honda Pilot a 7 seater?


Yes, the Honda Pilot can be a 7-seater or an 8-seater, depending on the trim level and configuration. Some trims come standard with 8-passenger seating, while others are available in a 7-passenger configuration, often due to the inclusion of second-row captain's chairs instead of a bench seat. 
You can watch this video to learn about the 7-passenger configuration of the 2020 Honda Pilot Touring: 23sClarington KiaYouTube · Mar 27, 2025

  • 7-passenger option: This configuration is available on select trims and features captain's chairs in the second row, which reduces the total passenger capacity to seven. 
  • 8-passenger option: Many Honda Pilot trims, such as the Sport and EX-L, come standard with a second-row bench seat, allowing for eight-passenger seating. 
  • Removable middle seat: Some trims, like the Touring, offer a removable second-row middle seat that can be stowed away to create a 7-passenger layout with an aisle, while still having the option to be reinstalled for 8-passenger capacity. 

This video explains the 7 or 8-passenger seating options in the 2025 Honda Pilot: 57sMicah MuzioYouTube · Jul 20, 2025



Is the Odyssey 7 or 8 seater?


With seating for 8, the Odyssey is spacious and accommodating enough to make even long drives a breeze. CabinWatch® standard on Touring and Elite. CabinTalk® standard on all trims. Keep an eye on your rear passengers, even in the dark, with CabinWatch®.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.