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What is the maximum cargo space in a Honda Pilot?

The Honda Pilot's maximum cargo space is 109 cu ft with all rear seats folded flat.


The question concerns how much cargo the Pilot can carry in different seating configurations and model years. This article outlines the official figures for common current-generation models and explains how space changes when you fold or rearrange the rear rows.


Cargo space by seating configuration


Below are the standard measurements reported by Honda for recent Pilot models, showing how space changes behind each row and at full, flat loading.



  • Behind the third row: 16.5 cu ft

  • Behind the second row: 46.8 cu ft

  • Maximum with both rows folded: 109.0 cu ft


These figures illustrate how the Pilot grows from everyday cargo space to its full loading potential. Actual usable space can vary slightly depending on cargo shape, floor height, and any interior cargo organizers or underfloor storage features installed by trims or dealers.


Seat configurations and practical considerations


The second-row seating option (bench vs. captain's chairs) influences passenger comfort and access, but the maximum cargo capacity remains 109 cu ft when both the second and third rows are folded flat. In day-to-day use, consider behind-third-row space for groceries or small luggage and behind-second-row space for larger suitcases or multiple bags with the third row folded.


Practical loading tips


To optimize loading, remove bulky items first, use soft-sided bags to maximize shape, and take advantage of any removable cargo mats or underfloor compartments that can reclaim space. If you frequently need maximum cargo space, plan for configurations that fold both rear rows and leaving the second row seats stacked or collapsed as needed.


Summary: The Honda Pilot offers up to 109 cu ft of cargo space with all rear seats folded, with about 16.5 cu ft behind the third row and around 46.8 cu ft behind the second row in typical configurations. Space varies slightly by trim and year, so check your specific model’s specs for exact figures. In practice, the Pilot provides substantial versatility for families, vacations, and gear-heavy trips.

Is a Honda Pilot bigger than a Toyota Highlander?


Yes, the Honda Pilot is larger than the Toyota Highlander, being both longer and wider, which results in more interior space for passengers and cargo. The Pilot offers more third-row legroom, greater maximum cargo volume, and is taller, though the Highlander has slightly more ground clearance. 
This video compares the exterior and interior dimensions of the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander: 1mWhich Ride?YouTube · Apr 4, 2025

Feature Honda Pilot Toyota Highlander
Length 199.9 inches 194.9 inches
Width 78.5 inches 76 inches
Height More than 2 inches taller Less tall
Third-Row Legroom 32.5 inches 28 inches
Maximum Cargo Volume 111.8 cubic feet 84.3 cubic feet
Ground Clearance 7.3 inches 8 inches
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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.



How big is the cargo space in a Honda Pilot?


The Honda Pilot's cargo space varies by model year and seating configuration, but generally offers a maximum of around 87 to 112 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. With the third row in use, there are approximately 16.5 to 18.6 cubic feet available behind it, and this increases to about 46.8 to 48.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and the second row in place.
 
This video shows the 2023 Honda Pilot's cargo capacity in cubic feet and inches: 58sFindTheBestCarPriceYouTube · Jan 26, 2023
Cargo space by configuration

  • Behind the third row (seats up): Approximately 16.516.516.5 to 18.618.618.6 cubic feet. 
  • Behind the second row (third row down): Roughly 46.846.846.8 to 48.548.548.5 cubic feet. 
  • Behind the first row (second and third rows down): Up to 83.983.983.9 to 878787 cubic feet. 

Maximum cargo space
  • Maximum (all seats down): The maximum capacity ranges from approximately 83.983.983.9 to 113.7113.7113.7 cubic feet depending on the model year and trim. 
  • Maximum (with underfloor storage): Some models can utilize underfloor storage to expand the space, particularly when the third row is down, reaching up to 111.8111.8111.8 cubic feet or more. 

This video shows how to utilize the cargo space in a 2025 Honda Pilot: 55sRich's Amazing SUV ChannelYouTube · Jan 13, 2025
Key considerations
  • Flat-folding seats: The seats in newer models fold flat, creating a large, usable cargo area without awkward humps or angles. 
  • Underfloor storage: Many models include underfloor storage, which is great for hiding valuables or expanding capacity when the third row is folded. 
  • Model year variations: Cargo capacity can differ by model year. For example, the redesigned 2023 model has a larger cargo capacity than previous generations. 



Can a queen mattress fit in a Honda Pilot?


No, a standard queen mattress (60′′×80′′60 double prime cross 80 double prime60′′×80′′) will not fit inside a Honda Pilot, as the maximum cargo space is narrower and slightly shorter than the mattress, measuring about 50′′50 double prime50′′ wide by 77′′77 double prime77′′ long from the back to the front seats. However, a queen mattress might fit if it's a boxed or flexible memory foam type that can be bent or folded to fit inside, though this could potentially damage the mattress. 
Why a queen mattress won't fit

  • A standard queen mattress is 606060 inches wide and 808080 inches long. 
  • The Honda Pilot's internal cargo space is roughly 505050 inches wide and 777777 inches long from the back door to the back of the front seats with the seats folded down. 
  • Since the mattress is longer and wider than the vehicle's interior space, it cannot lie flat inside. 

Possible solutions to fit it
  • Bend the mattress: Some people have been able to fit a queen mattress by bending or folding it, especially if it's a memory foam mattress that came in a box. 
  • Be careful: Folding or bending a mattress can cause damage, so be cautious to avoid warping or breaking the springs or foam. 
  • Consider alternatives: A smaller mattress, like a twin, is more likely to fit comfortably inside the Pilot. You could also consider a trifold mattress, which can be more flexible. 


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.