2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a refined and sophisticated appearance. It evolved from the GL-Class, which initially aimed to replace the G-Class but instead found its niche among affluent families seeking a more practical yet opulent vehicle. The GLS featured softened angles and lines, creating a sleeker look despite its large size. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin with a massive digital screen dominating the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-centric design. The GLS lineup included the GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63, each offering a range of standard and optional features to enhance comfort and convenience.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue maintained its position as a top seller with a mature and sophisticated design. The Rogue's exterior showcased Nissan's V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a floating roof design, contributing to its sleek appearance. Inside, the Rogue featured a layered dash design with contrasting colours and surfaces, creating a tasteful and detailed look. The centre console was a highlight, offering ample storage space and a wireless charging pad. The Rogue's interior was designed for comfort, with Nissan's Zero Gravity front seats and a spacious second row providing ample legroom. The fit and finish were exemplary, particularly in the top-of-the-line Platinum model.

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 4MATIC 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. The AMG GLS 63 could accelerate from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in just 4.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 280 kilometres per hour. The GLS featured an adaptive air suspension system, multiple drive modes, and a smooth ride quality, making it a versatile and high-performing SUV.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, received a performance boost with its new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine. This engine, featuring Variable Compression technology, produced 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, offering a significant improvement over the previous model. The Rogue's fuel efficiency was impressive, with estimates of 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.5 on the highway. The new CVT transmission provided a wider range of gear ratios, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness. The Rogue's chassis and suspension delivered a smooth and controlled ride, with electric power-assisted steering offering good feel and a tight turning diameter.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided spacious seating for up to seven passengers, with optional second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to six. The first and second rows offered ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for full-size adults. The GLS boasted 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 featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a centre console with butterfly doors.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior storage options, with bottle holders, cupholders, a glove compartment, and various cubbies throughout the cabin. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo. The Rogue offered up to 1,033 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,098 litres with the second row folded flat. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt outlets for device charging.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a massive touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. The MBUX voice-control system allowed for complex commands, enhancing convenience. The digital dash extended to the fully digital instrument panel, with touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel for control.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue's technology suite included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch centre infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay available on upper trims. ProPilot Assist, integrated with the navigation system, offered advanced driver-assist features, enhancing safety and convenience. Nissan's Intelligent Key allowed for easy access to the vehicle, with keyless entry available on all doors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a range of 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 was equipped with a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. ProPilot Assist offered advanced driver-assist capabilities, with enhanced features available on models with Navi-Link. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.