2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC presented a blend of new and familiar elements. The GLC 300 was redesigned, sharing its platform with the updated C-Class sedan, while the GLC Coupe models remained unchanged from the previous year, with new versions expected in the 2024 model year. Despite the redesign, the differences were subtle, with the most noticeable change being the narrower taillights. The GLC maintained its classy and timeless design, though some might have wished for a bit more personality to distinguish it from its predecessor. The interior saw a significant update, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, offering a modern and high-tech feel. The GLC Coupe retained its first-generation interior, which had aged well and offered some usability advantages over the newer model.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue, on the other hand, maintained a conservative design approach, focusing on proper proportions and rugged SUV detailing. The lineup included S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from $30,898 to $43,748, excluding destination charges. The Platinum trim, which was tested, offered a host of upscale features, including diamond-pattern leather seats and a range of soft-touch materials. The Rogue's design was appealing, ensuring it remained a popular choice among consumers. The interior was spacious, accommodating four people comfortably, with the option to fit a fifth person if needed. The Rogue's practicality was further enhanced by its larger cargo area and available all-wheel drive, making it a suitable replacement for a traditional family car.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive in Canada. The GLC 300 offered smooth acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. While it provided ample power for highway merging and passing, it wasn't as lively as the BMW X3's powertrain. The brake pedal was slightly soft, but effective, and the suspension prioritized comfort over sporty handling. The GLC Coupe continued with its older engine, offering similar performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe provided a sportier option with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 385 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with variable compression technology, producing 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and offered front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. The Rogue's powertrain was responsive in urban settings, though it lacked passing power on the highway. The engine's character, with its unusual note and vibration, might not appeal to all drivers. Fuel economy was slightly below expectations, averaging 8.1 L/100 km during testing. The Rogue's suspension provided a good balance of ride compliance and body control, though the steering felt lifeless. Overall, the Rogue offered a secure and consistent handling experience.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and firm cushioning. The synthetic leather upholstery was convincingly grained, with real leather available for a smoother finish. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 64-colour ambient lighting system. The GLC provided adequate storage space, though the piano black trim attracted dust and fingerprints. The rear seats offered good legroom, though headroom was slightly limited for taller passengers. The standard GLC had a cargo capacity of 620 litres, while the GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced it to 500 litres.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was designed as a practical family vehicle, offering easy entry and exit, good visibility, and a spacious interior. The Platinum trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Rogue's Zero Gravity seat designs provided comfort, though the rear seats were less comfortable due to low-mounted cushions. The Rogue offered ample storage space, with a hands-free power liftgate revealing up to 1,028 litres of cargo space. The Divide-N-Hide feature allowed for versatile cargo configurations, expanding to 2,064 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, its lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system offered excellent voice recognition, though it interrupted audio playback. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue used an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, stereo knobs, and main menu buttons. The test vehicle had the larger screen, Bluetooth, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a Bose audio system. Voice recognition was limited, struggling with specific requests. The Rogue also featured a 12.3-inch digital display and a head-up display, both of which performed well.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested, but its predecessor received top scores from NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder, and Safety Shield 360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist with adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though it received lower scores in some specific tests.