2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated and refined appearance compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes confidently avoided an ostentatious grille, opting for a more subtle design. However, for those seeking a bit more flair, the AMG GLS 63 model offered enhanced visual drama with flared wheel arches, a muscular grille, and prominent exhaust tips. The Maybach version took luxury to another level with chrome accents, a traditional hood ornament, and power running boards. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, though basic by GLS standards, still exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, providing a high-quality feel without being overly fragile.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, having undergone a significant redesign in 2021, continued to impress with its mature and sophisticated styling. The exterior featured Nissan's V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a sleek floating roof design. Inside, the Rogue boasted a layered dash with contrasting colours and surfaces, creating a detailed and tasteful look. The centre console was a standout feature, offering ample storage space and a wireless charging pad. The Rogue's interior was both attractive and comfortable, with Nissan's Zero Gravity bucket-style front seats and a roomy second row. The fit and finish were exemplary, especially in the top-of-the-line Platinum model, making the Rogue a well-rounded choice for those seeking a stylish and practical compact crossover.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The engine was complemented by the Mercedes EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, which added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's performance was smooth and powerful, with the electric assist seamlessly integrated. However, the air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, exhibited poor body control, leading to a less comfortable ride. The GLS 450 had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue received a performance boost with its new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This represented a significant improvement over the previous model's engine. The VC-Turbo technology allowed for variable compression, optimizing power and efficiency based on driving conditions. The Rogue's new CVT transmission offered a wider range of gear ratios, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness. The Rogue's chassis and suspension provided a smooth and controlled ride, with minimal body roll and good steering feel. The Rogue's fuel efficiency was impressive, with estimates of 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres city and 6.5 highway.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration, featuring a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version with captain's chairs was available. The second-row seats could slide forward to increase legroom, and the GLS boasted the best second-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs. Cargo space was generous, with 355 litres available with all seats in place and up to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS's air suspension made loading cargo easier, but some ergonomic issues, such as the touchscreen's reach and small sun visors, were noted.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior space and storage options. The front cabin featured numerous storage compartments, including bottle holders, cupholders, and a centre console bin. Rear-seat passengers also had access to storage options and charging ports. The Rogue's cargo area was impressive, offering up to 1,033 litres of space with the second row in place and 2,098 litres with it folded flat. The Rogue's interior was designed with practicality in mind, making it a versatile choice for families and commuters.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, and navigation. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, allowing for hands-free operation. However, the touchpad controller was found to be overly sensitive. The GLS also featured augmented-reality navigation, although the embedded navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue benefited from a technology upgrade, with upper trim levels featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with wireless Apple CarPlay available on higher trims. ProPilot Assist, Nissan's driver-assist technology, was available and integrated with the navigation system for predictive speed control. The Rogue's Intelligent Key system allowed for convenient keyless entry, enhancing its family-friendly appeal.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and more. However, some advanced driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system, were optional. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite across all trim levels, with standard features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. The Rogue also offered ProPilot Assist, a Level 2 advanced driver-assist system, which combined steering-assist and adaptive cruise control. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.