The Honda Odyssey includes a third-row seat, enabling up to eight passengers in its typical configuration. This article explains how the third row works, how much space it offers, and how it affects cargo capacity across trims and model years.
As a family-focused minivan, the Odyssey has long prioritized flexible seating. The third row is designed to fold or split to maximize cargo space when needed, while still providing comfortable seating for adults and children alike. Here’s what you need to know about third-row seating on the Odyssey today.
Seating configurations by trim
Before listing the seating setups, note that the Odyssey can be configured for eight passengers with a full second-row bench, or seven passengers if you opt for second-row captain's chairs. The exact arrangement depends on trim level and options.
- 8-passenger configuration: 2 front seats, a 3-passenger second-row bench, and a 3-passenger third-row bench.
- 7-passenger configuration: 2 front seats, a pair of second-row captain's chairs, and a 3-passenger third-row bench.
In practice, the eight-passenger layout is common on trims aimed at families who want maximum occupant capacity, while the seven-passenger setup is typical on trims that favor easier access to the third row through captain's chairs in the second row.
Third-row folding and cargo space
Honda designed the Odyssey’s third row to be flexible, with a split-folding bench that can collapse to expand cargo space when the seats aren’t needed for passengers.
- 60/40 split: The third-row bench splits 60/40, allowing you to fold down one section while preserving seating for passengers in the other section.
- Folding and cargo capacity: When the third row is folded, cargo space expands significantly, with official figures typically cited as roughly 38.6 cubic feet behind the third row, about 92 cubic feet with the second row up, and around 158 cubic feet with both rear rows folded for maximum space.
- Access features: Depending on year and trim, features such as Magic Slide second-row seats improve access to the third row, and fold-flat mechanics help create a flat load floor.
These configurations make the Odyssey a versatile choice for families that need to shuttle people and cargo with relative ease.
Summary
The Honda Odyssey does have a third-row seat in most configurations, enabling up to eight-passenger seating when using a full second-row bench. The arrangement can shift to seven passengers on trims that use second-row captain’s chairs. The third row folds to expand cargo space, and features like a 60/40 split and, in many years, Magic Slide seats add flexibility for everyday use. For the exact seating layout and cargo numbers for a specific model year, check the latest Honda brochure or contact a dealer.


