2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated appearance in its base GLS 450 form, avoiding the flashy chrome embellishments seen on competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes confidently steered clear of the ostentatious grilles found on the BMW X7 and Lexus LX. For those seeking a more dramatic look, the AMG GLS 63 model offered flared wheel arches, a muscular grille, and prominent exhaust tips, while the Maybach version was adorned with chrome accents and a traditional hood ornament. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, though basic by GLS standards, exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, enhancing the overall high-quality feel of the vehicle.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, maintained a conservative design approach, with well-proportioned and chiseled styling that conveyed a rugged sense of purpose. The Rogue lineup included various trims, with the Platinum trim offering upscale features like diamond-pattern leather seats and a host of amenities. The interior was designed for practicality, with comfortable seating for four and the option to accommodate a fifth passenger. The Rogue's controls were straightforward, though the key fob design was criticized for its lack of user-friendliness. The rear seat, while roomy, lacked comfort compared to the front seats, and the cargo area was versatile with the Divide-N-Hide feature, providing ample storage options.

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, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque available from the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup provided ample power for the large SUV, and the inline-six engine offered a smoother experience compared to traditional V6 engines. However, the air suspension, while adjustable, lacked the refinement expected in a luxury vehicle, leading to excessive body motion over bumps. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine with variable compression technology, delivering 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a CVT, offered responsive performance in urban settings, though it lacked highway passing power. The Rogue's fuel economy was slightly below expectations, averaging 8.1 L/100 km in testing. The SUV's ride quality was generally composed, with Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control enhancing cornering and ride comfort. However, the steering felt lifeless, and the all-season tires provided modest grip.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration, featuring a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version with captain's chairs was available. The second-row seats could slide 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 could lower for easier loading, and power-folding seats and a power tailgate added convenience.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue served as a practical family vehicle, accommodating four passengers comfortably, with the option for a fifth. The Platinum trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Rogue's rear doors opened wide for easy access, and the cargo area offered up to 1,028 litres of space with the back seat in place, expandable to 2,064 litres with the seats folded. The Divide-N-Hide feature allowed for versatile cargo configurations, though some storage areas were unlined, potentially causing noise.

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, and navigation. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, which was the most user-friendly. The graphics were sharp, and the augmented-reality navigation was a standout feature, though the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included an 8-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen, with Bluetooth, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wired Android Auto. The test vehicle featured a 9-inch screen, a Bose audio system, and a wireless charging pad. However, the voice recognition system struggled with accuracy, and the infotainment system felt outdated compared to newer offerings. The Rogue also had a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display, both of which performed well.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance systems. However, crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue boasted an extensive array of safety features, including 10 airbags, Safety Shield 360, and ProPilot Assist with Navi-link. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. ProPilot Assist impressed with its accuracy and ease of use, though braking could be abrupt in certain situations.