Despite being a relatively newer model, the Honda Passport is already a favorite among critics. It’s a better value than most of its competitors and doesn’t depreciate quickly. Still, the SUV market is always buzzing with worthy competition, like the all-new Chevy Blazer.

However, Kelly Blue Book says that it might not be worth trading in the Honda Passport for a Blazer. Which one came out on top in the site’s comparison test?

The reliable Honda Passport

The Honda Passport may be more expensive than the standard Chevy Blazer, but that price includes a more powerful engine. It’s powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 280 hp, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. According to KBB, this powertrain provides swift acceleration and timely, smooth shifts.

AWD can be added for an extra fee, which also comes with a traction management system. KBB was impressed with the Passport’s secure handling over snow and mud, even recommending it for light off-roading. The Honda Passport can also tow more than several competitors, up to 5,000 pounds. Despite all that power, the Passport’s engine is still mediocre in terms of fuel economy.

The Honda Passport’s interior provides plenty of space thanks to its square structure. Drivers have plenty of room to move their head and shoulders, plus enjoy heightened visibility from all angles. The Passport can house up to five riders, and total cargo space adds up to nearly 78 cubic feet.

The Honda Passport also has a lot of useful standard tech. Smartphone integration, an 8-inch touchscreen, tri-zone automatic climate control, and Bluetooth are all included. Each Passport also comes with the Honda Sensing safety suite, which includes highly-desired features like automatic emergency braking.

The reimagined Chevy Blazer

The 2021 Chevy Blazer looks nothing like its predecessor from the last generation, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It has more athletic styling cues in an attempt to win over shoppers who want a sporty sedan. However, the base engine isn’t exactly spritely, making only 193 hp.

To be fair, that’s still a lot of power, but not quite enough for a midsize SUV. Fortunately, drivers can also get a 230-hp turbo-four or a 308-hp V6 for better performance. All Blazers have great handling, and the available AWD also comes with a traction management system. The Chevy Blazer also gets slightly better mileage than the Passport.

Unfortunately, the Blazer’s angular curves can also hinder visibility for the driver. The windows are small and the roof pillars are thick, especially at the rear. The vehicle’s backside also has a noticeable lift, shortening the height of the rear windshield.

On the plus side, the driver’s seat rests at a great height for outward visibility. The Blazer can potentially seat up to five riders, but the back row is too cramped to accommodate three passengers. You would think this might lead to a big cargo hold, but it’s actually quite small by class standards.

The standard Blazer has the same standard convenience tech but lacks any advanced driver aids. Some critics, like Car and Driver, would have appreciated a physical rotary dial that’s common on other SUVs.

The final word

While KBB thought both SUVs are fun to drive and decently equipped, editors gave the win to the Honda Passport. It’s the best bang for your buck, especially if you ever resell it.

U.S. News was a little harsher, placing the Blazer way below the Passport on its midsize SUV ratings. The restrictive second row, firm ride, and cheap interior materials were all cited as the reason for its low score. Consumer Reports held a higher opinion of the Chevy Blazer, but both SUVs are still equal in terms of reliability.