2023 Honda Pilot vs 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling not only made it look larger but also increased its dimensions, being 3.4 inches longer, up to 1.5 inches wider, and 0.8 inches taller than its predecessor. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which featured a one-inch taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, chunky all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional styling route, remaining attractive and functional, with materials quality meeting elevated class standards. Overall, the new Pilot emphasized function over form, offering a tidy and utilitarian aesthetic.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV marked a dramatic evolution for the Blazer nameplate, transitioning from a truck-based off-roader to a car-based crossover, and finally to an EV-specific platform. Built around the General Motors Ultium component set, the Blazer EV shared a long 121.8-inch wheelbase with the Cadillac Lyriq, though its proportions made it appear more like a stretch limo. The Blazer EV's styling, with a tall hood and boomerang-shaped taillights, gave it more attitude than rival electric SUVs. It launched in LT and RS trim levels, with the RS featuring a blacked-out front fascia and 21-inch wheels. The interior offered a distinctive design with large round air vents and optional red leather upholstery, though some parts felt flimsy. Despite some shortcomings, the Blazer EV aimed to provide a more fun feel than its competitors.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot offered quick initial acceleration and adequate power, with a soft brake pedal for smooth stops. It cornered well for a three-row SUV, prioritizing comfort over sporty driving. The TrailSport model added an inch of ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road comfort.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV offered a single-motor rear-wheel drive and a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain in the LT and RS trims. RWD models had 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, while AWD models had 288 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. A forthcoming Blazer EV SS would feature a dual-motor AWD powertrain with 557 hp and 648 lb-ft of torque. The Blazer EV demonstrated strong acceleration, with the AWD model pulling harder off the line. It excelled on twisty roads with precise steering but sacrificed comfort due to a stiff suspension. The steering-wheel paddle allowed for adjustable regenerative braking, adding driver involvement.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional compared to other new Honda vehicles, offering a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Pilot provided ample storage and convenience features, including a stowable second-row center seat and abundant space in the second row for adults. The third row was less inviting but suitable for short trips. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 114.3 cubic feet available when the second row was folded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV's interior felt spacious, though headroom and legroom were similar to the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Kia EV6. It lacked the commanding driving position of a traditional SUV, with high side sills and a deep dashboard. Cargo space was 25.5 cubic feet with the second row in place and 59.1 cubic feet with seats folded, less than a gasoline Blazer but more than an EV6. The Blazer EV featured a "presence activated" liftgate and expected small-item storage, though some controls were moved to the touchscreen, requiring adjustment.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's EX-L trim and higher offered a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and USB ports in every row. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was functional with quick responses and a logical layout. Features like Honda's CabinTalk and a navigation system were available on higher trims, along with a Bose premium audio system and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV debuted a new Google-based infotainment system with built-in Google apps, eliminating standalone Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It featured a 17.7-inch touchscreen and 11-inch digital instrument cluster with sharp graphics. The system included built-in route planning and over-the-air software updates. The user experience was mostly good, though the touchscreen's angle and placement of some controls required adjustment. The Blazer EV introduced a hands-free start sequence, marking a shift towards a more high-tech feel.

The 2023 Honda Pilot had not yet been rated by the NHTSA, but Honda expected top scores. It received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard Honda Sensing safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors. The advanced safety features functioned well, with no false alarms experienced during testing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It came with standard automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high beams. Optional features included reverse automatic braking, park assist, and the Super Cruise hands-free driver assist system, which maintained speed and following distance while keeping the vehicle centered in its lane.