2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2020 Nissan Rogue

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL Platinum trims, offered a straightforward approach with a single engine and transmission combination, and a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The SL Platinum trim, priced at an estimated $37,998 CAD, featured a bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, giving it an appealing yet slightly exaggerated look. Inside, the Rogue's age showed through its waterfall control panel and rounded interior design, which contrasted with the modern trend of wide, angular motifs. Despite the less impressive plastic surfaces, the padded centre console sides provided a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC embraced a timeless aesthetic with soft curves and rounded edges, complemented by menacing LED headlights. Its long hood and wide grille gave it a dramatic stance, reminiscent of a raised C-Class or E-Class sedan. The GLC's cabin was a masterpiece, with flowing dash lines and a floating centre touchscreen. Mercedes-Benz's move towards larger screens and minimalism was evident, yet the GLC's interior remained a benchmark for luxury SUV cabins. The GLC was available in both conventional SUV and crossover "coupe" body styles, with the latter sacrificing some cargo space for a sharper look.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Weighing 1,664 kilograms, the Rogue's powertrain was adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. The CVT managed to make the most of the available power, but the Rogue struggled during highway acceleration, passing, and climbing. Fuel efficiency was also a concern, with the Rogue achieving no better than 9.4 L/100 km during testing, despite a claimed 8.2 L/100 km for FWD models.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The GLC offered multiple drive modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, but even in Comfort mode, the turbo engine provided ample power. The steering was precise, and the GLC handled high-speed turns with confidence. For those seeking more power, the AMG GLC 43 and AMG GLC 63 S offered twin-turbocharged engines with 385 and 503 horsepower, respectively, delivering sports car-like performance.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. While the seats featured Nissan's Zero Gravity design, they were somewhat undersized, and taller drivers struggled to find a comfortable position. The rear seats, however, offered excellent thigh support, legroom, and a good backrest angle, enhanced by a panoramic glass moonroof. In-cabin storage was limited, but the cargo area provided 1,112 litres of space, with underfloor compartments and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 offered 1,600 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 550 litres with them up. The GLC Coupe's fastback design reduced these figures to 1,400 and 500 litres, respectively. The GLC's interior featured a decently sized centre console, deep door pockets, and retractable cupholders. Rear-seat space was adequate, with no need to adjust the seats for legroom, although the Coupe's roofline limited headroom.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims offered navigation, a Bose audio system, and NissanConnect Services with remote access and safety features. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, with slow response times and subpar voice recognition, detracting from the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC's MBUX infotainment system, part of the Premium Package, featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a touch controller, and advanced voice control. The system was intuitive, with touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel for customization. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though switching between the GLC's radio and smartphone apps required navigating through menus. Despite this minor inconvenience, the system was highly regarded.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional options included ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA and issues with frontal-impact protection.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC required the Intelligent Drive Package for advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. The Premium Plus Package added parking sensors and hands-free parking assist, though the sensors were overly sensitive. Despite this, the GLC's safety features were comprehensive and effective.