2021 Honda Pilot: Interior Dimensions & Cargo Space

by Alex Braham 52 views

Hey guys! Thinking about getting a 2021 Honda Pilot? Awesome choice! It's a fantastic SUV, especially if you need space for the family, lots of gear, or both. One of the most important things to consider when choosing an SUV is its interior dimensions and cargo capacity. Let's dive into the specifics of the 2021 Honda Pilot's interior so you can see if it's the right fit for you.

Interior Dimensions: Stretching Out in Comfort

The 2021 Honda Pilot is designed with passenger comfort in mind. Whether you're planning long road trips or just running errands around town, having enough space to stretch out is essential. Let's break down the interior dimensions by row:

  • Front Row: The front row of the Pilot offers generous headroom and legroom, ensuring that both the driver and front passenger can ride comfortably, even on longer journeys. You'll find ample shoulder room as well, so you won't feel cramped, even with a passenger beside you. Specifically, you're looking at around 40.1 inches of headroom, 40.9 inches of legroom, 62 inches of shoulder room, and 59.1 inches of hip room. These dimensions make the front seats a comfortable place to be, whether you're the driver or the co-pilot.
  • Second Row: The second row is equally impressive, especially in models equipped with captain's chairs. These provide individual seating and more personal space for passengers. Even in models with a bench seat, the second row offers plenty of room for adults to sit comfortably. Typically, the second row provides about 40.2 inches of headroom, 38.4 inches of legroom, 62 inches of shoulder room and 57.3 inches of hip room. This ensures that your passengers in the second row will enjoy a comfortable ride, whether they are adults or children.
  • Third Row: Now, let's talk about the third row. Third-row seating in any SUV can sometimes feel like a compromise, but the Pilot does a decent job of providing usable space. It's best suited for kids or smaller adults on shorter trips. Headroom and legroom are more limited in the third row compared to the first two rows, but it's still a valuable feature for families who need the extra seating capacity. In the third row, you can expect around 38.9 inches of headroom, 31.9 inches of legroom, 57.6 inches of shoulder room, and 44.6 inches of hip room. While it may not be the most spacious area for adults on long journeys, it's perfect for kids or shorter trips.

These dimensions combine to create a spacious and comfortable cabin, making the 2021 Honda Pilot an excellent choice for families and anyone who needs the flexibility of a three-row SUV. Remember that these measurements can vary slightly depending on the trim level and specific options, but overall, the Pilot provides a generous amount of space for both passengers and cargo.

Cargo Space: Hauling Your Gear with Ease

Beyond passenger space, cargo capacity is a critical factor for SUV shoppers. The 2021 Honda Pilot excels in this area, offering a versatile cargo area that can be configured to meet your needs. Whether you're hauling groceries, sports equipment, luggage, or home improvement supplies, the Pilot has you covered. Here's a breakdown of the cargo space dimensions:

  • Behind the Third Row: With all three rows of seats in place, the Pilot offers a respectable amount of cargo space for everyday use. You'll have enough room for groceries, backpacks, and other smaller items without having to fold down any seats. This is perfect for families who need to carry both passengers and cargo simultaneously. Specifically, you're looking at about 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. This is more than enough for day-to-day errands, shopping trips, and carrying essential items for your passengers.
  • Behind the Second Row: Folding down the third-row seats significantly expands the cargo area, providing ample space for larger items. This configuration is ideal for weekend getaways, sports equipment, or larger shopping trips. You'll be able to fit suitcases, golf clubs, and other bulky items with ease. When you fold down the third-row seats, the cargo space expands to an impressive 46.8 cubic feet. This is a substantial increase and provides plenty of room for luggage, camping gear, or larger items you need to transport.
  • Behind the First Row: For maximum cargo capacity, folding down both the second and third-row seats transforms the Pilot into a veritable cargo van. This configuration is perfect for hauling large items, such as furniture, home improvement supplies, or anything else that requires a lot of space. With both the second and third rows folded down, the 2021 Honda Pilot offers a cavernous 83.9 cubic feet of cargo space. This is truly impressive and makes the Pilot a versatile vehicle for both passengers and cargo. You'll be able to transport large items with ease, making it ideal for DIY projects, moving, or any other situation where you need maximum cargo capacity.

The 2021 Honda Pilot's flexible seating and cargo configurations make it a practical choice for families and anyone who needs the ability to carry both passengers and cargo. The spacious interior ensures that everyone rides comfortably, while the ample cargo space provides plenty of room for all your gear. Whether you're planning a road trip, running errands, or hauling supplies, the Pilot is up to the task.

Comparing the 2021 Honda Pilot to Competitors

When considering the 2021 Honda Pilot, it's helpful to compare its interior dimensions and cargo space to those of its competitors. This can give you a better sense of how the Pilot stacks up against other popular SUVs in its class.

  • Toyota Highlander: The Toyota Highlander is another popular three-row SUV that competes with the Honda Pilot. In terms of interior dimensions, the Highlander offers similar headroom and legroom in the first two rows, but the Pilot generally provides more generous space in the third row. Cargo space is also slightly larger in the Pilot, particularly with all seats folded down. The Pilot's edge in third-row space and overall cargo capacity can make it a more appealing choice for families who frequently use all three rows or need to haul larger items.
  • Ford Explorer: The Ford Explorer is a strong contender in the three-row SUV segment, offering a sporty driving experience and a stylish design. While the Explorer's first and second-row dimensions are comparable to the Pilot, its third-row space is generally tighter. However, the Explorer offers a slightly higher maximum cargo capacity with all seats folded down. The Explorer might be a better fit for those prioritizing style and performance, while the Pilot excels in providing more comfortable third-row seating and a more versatile cargo area.
  • Kia Telluride: The Kia Telluride has quickly become a favorite among SUV shoppers, thanks to its attractive design, spacious interior, and impressive value. The Telluride offers generous headroom and legroom in all three rows, and its cargo space is comparable to the Pilot. The Telluride is definitely worth considering if you're looking for a combination of style, space, and value, but the Pilot remains a strong contender with its proven reliability and reputation.

Ultimately, the best SUV for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities. Consider what's most important to you—whether it's passenger comfort, cargo capacity, fuel efficiency, or price—and compare the dimensions and features of each vehicle accordingly. The 2021 Honda Pilot offers a compelling combination of space, versatility, and reliability, making it a top choice in the three-row SUV segment.

Trim Levels and Interior Features

The 2021 Honda Pilot is available in several trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and amenities. The interior features vary depending on the trim, but even the base model comes well-equipped with essential comforts and conveniences. Let's take a look at some of the key interior features you can expect to find in the 2021 Pilot:

  • Base LX Trim: The base LX trim includes features like a 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a seven-speaker audio system, and Honda Sensing suite of safety features. The seats are cloth-trimmed, and the interior is designed for practicality and durability. Even in the base trim, you'll find essential features that make the Pilot a comfortable and safe vehicle for everyday driving.
  • EX and EX-L Trims: Stepping up to the EX and EX-L trims adds more premium features, such as a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a sunroof. The EX-L trim also includes leather upholstery, adding a touch of luxury to the interior. These trims offer a great balance of features and value, making them popular choices among Pilot buyers.
  • Touring and Elite Trims: The Touring and Elite trims offer the most luxurious and feature-rich interiors. These trims include features like a rear entertainment system, a premium audio system, and a hands-free power tailgate. The Elite trim also adds features like heated second-row seats and a panoramic sunroof. If you're looking for the ultimate in comfort and convenience, the Touring and Elite trims are the way to go.

No matter which trim level you choose, the 2021 Honda Pilot offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior that's designed to meet the needs of modern families. The spacious cabin, versatile cargo area, and available premium features make it a top contender in the three-row SUV segment.

Conclusion: Is the 2021 Honda Pilot Right for You?

So, is the 2021 Honda Pilot the right SUV for you? If you need a spacious, versatile, and reliable vehicle with plenty of room for passengers and cargo, the answer is likely yes. The Pilot's generous interior dimensions, flexible seating configurations, and ample cargo space make it an excellent choice for families, road trips, and everyday adventures.

Of course, it's always a good idea to test drive the Pilot and compare it to other SUVs in its class before making a final decision. Consider your specific needs and priorities, and choose the vehicle that best fits your lifestyle. But if you're looking for a well-rounded three-row SUV that excels in comfort, space, and reliability, the 2021 Honda Pilot is definitely worth a look. Happy car shopping!