2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of elegance and practicality. Originally known as the GL-Class, the GLS evolved to cater to affluent families seeking a comfortable and spacious vehicle. Despite its large size, the GLS appeared more streamlined due to its softened angles and lines. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen dominating the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-centric design. The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63, each offering a range of standard features and optional packages to enhance comfort and style.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more muscular and imposing exterior. The updated front end featured a squared-off nose with a deeper V-Motion grille, flanked by narrow LED headlamps and functional air vents. The Rogue's exterior colour options were limited but included two-tone configurations on the Platinum grade. Inside, the Rogue offered a quieter cabin and improved functionality, such as a shift-by-wire system that created additional storage space. The second-row doors opened wider for easier access, and the interior featured a range of standard and optional features across different trims, including leatherette upholstery and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options. The entry-level GLS 450 was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine, delivering 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, generated an impressive 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. This model could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 280 km/h. The GLS also featured an adaptive air suspension system, multiple drive modes, and a smooth ride quality.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue, powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, offered 181 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), provided adequate performance for the Rogue's weight, which ranged from 1,536 kg for the FWD S grade to 1,653 kg for the AWD Platinum model. While the Rogue lacked alternative powertrain options, it delivered respectable fuel efficiency, with ratings of 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 L/100 km on the highway for FWD models. The AWD configuration slightly increased these figures. The Rogue's handling improved with a 27% increase in torsional rigidity, a lighter weight, and updated suspension systems, resulting in a stable and planted road feel.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The front and second-row seats provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for adults. The GLS featured 355 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded and 2,400 litres with both the second and third rows down. The interior included numerous storage compartments, including a centre console with butterfly doors.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue also prioritized functionality, with a quieter cabin and a shift-by-wire system that added storage space under the centre stack. The second-row doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and the interior offered generous headroom. Standard features included heated front seats and a steering wheel, while higher trims added leatherette upholstery, heated rear seats, and a power liftgate. The Rogue's cargo space measured 1,028 litres with the second row upright and 2,064 litres with it folded. The redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system allowed for a 5 cm cargo floor height adjustment and included a panel for separating cargo.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, which included a large touchscreen and a trackpad for navigation. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. MBUX's voice-control system responded to commands like "Hey Mercedes," and the digital dash extended to the instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SV grade added an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and additional USB ports. The Platinum grade upgraded to a 9-inch screen with wireless phone charging and wireless Apple CarPlay. It also featured a 10.8-inch head-up display and a Bose 10-speaker audio system, though the digital instrument cluster's graphics were difficult to read.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with various driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety tech included lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue included the Safety Shield 360 suite as standard, offering features like forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model introduced ProPILOT Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with Safety Shield 360 features. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star safety rating from the NHTSA, with improvements made to later models.