Three-row compact SUVs are hot right now. And, while they can serve the average family there are those who require no compromise for all their passengers.

The 2023 Honda Pilot Touring easily meets that target.

EXTERIOR

As Honda’s full-size SUV there’s no question the Pilot is large, and it needs to be in order to carry out its task. There is the question of function over form, where a box shape provides the most interior space for occupants. The Pilot does its best to hide this by adopting the current design language of the company. It doesn’t look like a larger CR-V, instead sharing bits such as the gloss black front grille made more imposing by the vehicle’s dimensions. The thin LED headlights flank either side. Slight creases add a bit of muscularity to the body, while the 20-inch wheels are easily swallowed under the wheel wells.

INTERIOR

The inherently boxy shape and proportions makes the Pilot cavernous on the inside. From the first to the third row everyone will be happy regardless of their size as all the main amenities are available no matter where one sits. Large comfortable leather seats — surrounded by further soft touch materials, greet all who enter.

There’s no need to be jealous of any other passenger. Everyone has access to climate control, cup holders, and connectivity. So spacious is the Pilot that it has its own PA system that operates loud and clear through the 12-speaker plus subwoofer BOSE audio system.

Access to the rear row is a simple process. Honda’s ergonomics are in full effect. Driving controls are within reach despite the feeling that those seated in the front two rows are potentially a postcode apart.

There’s plenty of interior light due to the expansive panoramic sunroof. Cabin refinement and material quality is high but robust enough to deal with the rigours of family use. The major operating functions are all powered or automatic for further comfort, like the rear tailgate.

Want even more space, drop the two rear rows. Somehow the Pilot manages to feel even larger on the inside than its physical footprint would denote.

ON THE ROAD

A big vehicle needs big power and the Pilot delivers here as well, with a V6, normally found in the more premium brands. No small displacement turbocharged motor here. Step on the throttle and the Pilot moves, the 3.5-litres under its bonnet responding in a crisp, linear fashion. The exhaust noise is never loud, but can be heard for aural encouragement. The 10-speed shifts invisibly regardless of pace.

Some might shudder at driving something this large at speed; however, they would be surprised by the competency of the Honda. There is more than enough grip from its torque vectoring all-wheel drive system to inspire confidence across a wide range of variables. The chassis can keep up with its velocity — more importantly so can its brakes. The suspension never gets harsh enough to upset passengers, and gives more than enough feedback when getting close to its handling limits. From highway cruising, to Jamaican B-roads, the Honda Pilot says no problems to all three rows.

In urban situations, its size isn’t as much of an issue as one might think. There’s more than enough safety, warning, and assistance technology to make city driving a breeze.

The Pilot is for those where lack of comfortable third space is a deal breaker. It can hold six to seven full-sized passengers with ease without feeling like a commercial vehicle and drives with the competence of a slightly smaller SUV while being tech- and feature-packed.