2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL Platinum trims, offered a straightforward design 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, which added to its appeal despite its aging design. Inside, the Rogue's interior showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. However, the padded centre console sides were a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE, despite its somewhat uninspired exterior design, boasted a significantly improved interior. The GLE Coupe, which underwent a full redesign, offered a streamlined and cohesive look. The interior was a masterpiece of quality, with a striking red and black colour scheme, luxurious materials, and innovative features like twin arching grab handles with LED lighting. The GLE's interior exuded a sense of opulence, rivaling even high-end SUVs from Porsche and Audi.

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). While the powertrain was adequate for everyday driving, it struggled during highway acceleration and passing maneuvers. The Rogue's fuel efficiency was also disappointing, with real-world testing showing 9.4 L/100 km compared to the expected 8.2 L/100 km. However, the Rogue's ride and handling were improved by brake-induced technologies like Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, though it lacked excitement due to lifeless steering and CVT drone.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance with its advanced air suspension and turbocharged engines. The GLE 350 featured a 255 hp engine, while the GLE 450 offered a turbo 3.0-litre inline-6 with 362 hp. The AMG GLE 53 took it further with 429 hp, thanks to an electric supercharger. The GLE's hybrid system, EQ Boost, provided additional power and seamless engine start-stop functionality. Despite its size, the GLE delivered an exceptional driving experience, with agile handling and impressive towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg. Fuel efficiency varied across models, with the AMG GLE 53 averaging 14.7 L/100 km.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior space was a mixed bag. While the front seats were somewhat undersized, the rear seats offered excellent comfort with high cushions, good legroom, and a panoramic glass moonroof. The Rogue's cargo area was generous, with 1,112 litres of space and a Divide-n-Hide cargo management system. However, in-cabin storage was limited, with only the glove compartment providing ample space.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior, with most models featuring two rows of seats and an optional third row for seven-passenger seating. The Coupe body style accommodated five passengers, though rear space felt constrained due to the sloping roofline. Cargo capacity varied, with the SUV offering 630 litres behind the second row and 2,055 litres with all rows folded. The GLE's usability was enhanced by the new MBUX infotainment system, which simplified controls and improved functionality.

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

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12-inch touchscreen with Interior Assistant, allowing gesture control and personalized shortcuts. The MBUX system offered a user-friendly interface with search bars and larger type. The GLE's technology suite included a head-up display, ambient lighting, and a natural voice assistant. The AMG models featured a Track Pace app for performance tracking. The GLE's tech offerings were extensive and well-executed, providing a luxurious and high-tech experience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with standard Safety Shield 360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features 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 NHTSA and issues with frontal-impact protection.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE earned top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. The GLE offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side systems added an extra layer of protection, making the GLE a leader in safety technology.