2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 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 carried over from the previous year, with new versions expected for the 2024 model year. The GLC 300's exterior changes were subtle, with the most noticeable update being the narrower taillights. Despite these changes, the GLC maintained its classic luxury SUV appeal, with a design that had stood the test of time. The interior received a significant update, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a modern, high-tech design. The GLC's cabin was noted for its excellent materials and solid construction, offering a simpler and cleaner design compared to its rivals.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue underwent its first major styling update since the 2021 model year. It featured a new, larger grille and distinctive stack headlights and daytime running lights. The rear fascia was updated with redesigned inner taillight elements. The Rogue's interior was enhanced with a new 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, giving it a more premium feel. The Rogue Platinum model offered leather seats with quilted stitching, adding to its upscale appeal. The Rogue's interior design and materials were praised for their quality, making it a worthy contender in its segment.

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's acceleration was smooth, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. While it offered ample power for highway merging and passing, it wasn't as lively as the BMW X3's powertrain. The GLC's suspension prioritized comfort, delivering a smooth ride with a nearly silent cabin. The GLC Coupe retained its older engine, offering similar performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe provided a sportier option with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine with a variable compression ratio, producing 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. This engine outperformed many of its competitors' non-hybrid powertrains. However, the Rogue's continuously variable transmission (CVT) was criticized for its sluggish response. The Rogue's suspension was firmer than expected, affecting ride quality without improving handling. Despite these drawbacks, the Rogue's engine performance was impressive, although its exhaust note was less appealing.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and high-quality synthetic leather upholstery. The interior provided sufficient storage space, including a large centre console bin with a wireless charging pad. The GLC's rear seats accommodated average adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The standard GLC offered 620 litres of cargo space, while the GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 500 litres.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue provided competitive passenger space, with differences mainly in legroom compared to rivals. The Rogue's cargo space was slightly less than some competitors, offering a maximum of 1,033 litres with the rear seats in place and 2,098 litres with them folded. The optional Divide-N-Hide system allowed for flexible cargo configurations. The Rogue's interior featured a pass-through space in the centre console and a storage tray at floor level, though accessing it was somewhat awkward.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and responsive controls. However, its 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 2024 Nissan Rogue offered an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, while SL and Platinum models received a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Rogue was the first Nissan to feature Google built-in software, integrating Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play app store. The dual 12.3-inch screen setup was a significant improvement, though the touchscreen was occasionally slow to boot up. The Rogue also provided multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad on higher trims.

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

The 2024 Nissan Rogue received top safety ratings from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert. ProPilot Assist, an advanced driver assistance system, was available on higher trims, offering automated lane centring for highway driving.