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Is the Honda Pilot 3rd row?

Yes. The Honda Pilot is a three-row SUV that seats up to eight passengers in most trims, with seven seats available when opting for captain's chairs in the second row. This article breaks down how the third row works, who it fits, and what to expect in terms of cargo and everyday practicality.

Three rows of seating: what it means for families

Understanding how the Pilot allocates space helps families decide if it fits their everyday needs, road trips, and kid-hauling routines.

Seating capacity: up to eight passengers with a bench-style second row; seven passengers if you select second-row captain's chairs.

Third row: a foldable, split bench (typically 60/40) that can be collapsed to extend cargo space when not in use.

Access and comfort: second-row seats slide forward to ease third-row entry; higher trims add nicer materials and improved rear-seat amenities.

Rear-seat amenities: many trims offer rear climate control and USB charging ports for back-seat passengers, enhancing comfort on longer trips.

In practice, the third row is generally usable for children or for short trips by adults. For longer journeys, many buyers find the second row more comfortable and the third row best suited for occasional use by adults or older children.

Cargo space and daily use with a 3-row setup

How much cargo you can carry depends on whether the third row is up or folded, and how you configure the second row. Exact measurements vary by model year and trim, but the general pattern is consistent across current Pilot generations.

Behind the third row: the cargo area is modest when the third row is in use, suitable for groceries, small suitcases, and everyday items.

With the third row folded: cargo capacity expands significantly, making room for larger items like strollers, sports gear, or multiple suitcases.

Second-row configuration: the second row typically offers flexibility to balance passenger space and cargo; many trims allow easy adjustment to maximize loading space.

For precise figures like cubic feet and exact dimensions, consult the current model year’s specifications from Honda or a dealership, as measurements can differ by year and trim level.

Interior features that matter for families

Beyond seating and cargo, the Pilot includes a range of family-friendly features. Standard and available tech typically covers driver-assistance systems, multiple charging ports, and climate controls for rear passengers, with higher trims adding more convenience and comfort options.

Bottom line: Is the Honda Pilot right for you?

Yes, the Honda Pilot remains a practical three-row SUV that accommodates families with flexible seating and cargo configurations. If you need maximum third-row space for adults or regular easy access for multiple passengers, you’ll want to compare with rivals such as the Toyota Grand Highlander, Kia Telluride, or Hyundai Palisade. If you value proven reliability, standard safety tech, and a well-rounded daily-driving experience, the Pilot continues to be a strong contender.

Summary

The Honda Pilot is a true three-row SUV, offering seating for up to eight on most trims (or seven with second-row captain’s chairs). It balances passenger comfort with cargo flexibility, featuring a fold-flat third row and adaptable second-row setups. For the most accurate current details, check the specifications for your chosen model year and trim directly from Honda.

Do all Honda pilots have a 3rd row?

No, not all Honda Pilots have a third row, as the model has evolved over the years. However, modern Honda Pilot models are three-row SUVs, though some trims come standard with captain's chairs that reduce the passenger capacity to seven instead of eight.

Current models: The Honda Pilot is consistently advertised as a three-row SUV, accommodating up to eight passengers depending on the trim level.
Seating variations: Some trims, like the TrailSport, come with captain's chairs in the second row, which reduces the maximum seating capacity to seven. Other trims may also offer captain's chairs as an option.
Historical models: In the past, there were two-row configurations available, but the modern Pilot is a three-row SUV.

What is the weakness of the Honda Pilot?

A: The most common problems across these less reliable Honda Pilot years include transmission failures, excessive oil consumption, peeling paint, recurring fault codes, fuel injector failures, brake issues, and electrical problems.

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

Is a traverse bigger than a Pilot?

Yes, a Chevy Traverse is generally bigger than a Honda Pilot, particularly in length and interior cargo volume. The Traverse is longer and offers more overall passenger and cargo space, while the Pilot is slightly taller but feels more maneuverable due to its smaller size.

Feature	Chevy Traverse	Honda Pilot
Length	Up to 204.7 inches	Up to 199.9–200.2 inches
Maximum Cargo Volume	Up to 98.2 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)	Up to 87 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)
Third-Row Legroom	Around 32.1 inches	Around 32.5 inches
Third-Row Hip Room	More than the Pilot	Less than the Traverse

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.