2021 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer was a striking vehicle that often drew comparisons to high-end models like the Lamborghini Urus. Its aggressive styling, with a wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and sawblade 20-inch wheels, made it stand out. The Blazer's exterior was designed to impress, with a low shoulder height and a short, non-stubby tail. However, the interior did not match the exterior's boldness. It was criticized for its low-rent feel, with an all-black cabin unless specific exterior colors were chosen. The materials used were considered subpar for its price range, and the seats were described as featureless and unsupportive.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V had a more conventional appearance, blending in with other compact crossovers. Its styling was not a major selling point, but it offered a few distinguishing features like the grille opening and chromed plastic accents. The CR-V came in eight colors, though many were shades of gray, black, or white. The interior was more modern, with angular seats and a choice of black, gray, or ivory cloth or leather. While not the most visually striking, the CR-V's design was functional and practical, appealing to those who prioritized utility over aesthetics.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered three engine options, with the base 2.5-liter inline-four being underpowered at 193 horsepower. The 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder, with 227 hp, was a better choice, but the 3.6-liter V6 on the RS trim was the standout, delivering 308 hp. The Blazer RS featured a sport-tuned suspension and a mechanical torque-vectoring rear axle, enhancing its driving dynamics. However, the transmission's slow response and lack of paddle shifters were drawbacks. Fuel economy for the AWD V6 was average at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, came with a single 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine across all trims. It wasn't designed for thrilling performance but offered smooth acceleration and predictable handling. The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) was less engaging than the conventional transmissions found in some competitors. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The CR-V's suspension setup provided decent ride quality, making it a reliable choice for everyday driving.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, as a two-row SUV, comfortably seated four passengers. Its low roof height didn't compromise interior space, and the seats were mounted lower for easy entry and exit. However, sightlines were poor due to its design, though large side-view mirrors and optional rear-view camera improved visibility. Cargo space was 64 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and the Blazer could tow up to 4,500 pounds with the right configuration. The controls were user-friendly, and features like a heated steering wheel and hands-free power tailgate added convenience.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized functionality, offering 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Access to the cargo area varied by trim, with options for manual, power, or hands-free tailgate operation. Roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim. The CR-V's design focused on accommodating five passengers comfortably and providing ample storage space, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Chevrolet Infotainment 3, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The RS trim added wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, and a Safety Alert Seat. The infotainment system included navigation, 4G WiFi, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Driver assists were standard on most trims, but the Blazer lacked semi-automated functions for traffic.

The 2021 Honda CR-V's base LX trim had a basic 5-inch screen, while other trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The audio system varied by trim, with the Touring trim offering a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were abundant, and the Touring trim included a wireless phone charger. The CR-V's technology package was comprehensive, though the base trim lacked some features.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, though its headlights were rated "Marginal" or "Poor." It lacked some advanced safety features like rear emergency braking, but enhanced forward emergency braking was available on top trims.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It didn't achieve the highest IIHS rating due to headlight and side crash test scores. The CR-V's Honda Sensing system included a suite of standard safety features across all trims, with blind spot monitoring available from the EX trim onward.