2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was a testament to the brand's commitment to maintaining a balance between ruggedness and style. Its design was characterized by proper proportions and chiseled styling, which gave it a rugged sense of purpose without being overly aggressive. The Rogue's appeal was crucial, as aesthetics often played a significant role in consumer decisions. The Platinum trim, which we tested, offered a luxurious feel with its soft, diamond-pattern leather seats and upscale interior materials, ensuring that the vehicle met the quality standards expected in the compact SUV segment.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a soft sensuality typical of modern Mercedes design, which, while bordering on boring, aged gracefully. Our GLS 450 test vehicle featured stunning 22-inch AMG rims and a new silver four-louver grille design, adding a touch of elegance to its exterior. Inside, the GLS 450 showcased a Bahia Brown over Black interior with polished aluminum accents and rich detailing, making it a luxurious space to spend time. The combination of these elements ensured that the GLS was not only visually appealing but also offered a high level of comfort and sophistication.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine with a variable compression design, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), provided a responsive driving experience in urban settings, though it lacked passing power on highways. The Rogue offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Auto, and Sport, with AWD versions adding Off-Road and Snow modes. Despite its innovative powertrain, the Rogue's fuel economy fell short of expectations, averaging 8.1 L/100 km in combined driving. The SUV's ride quality was enhanced by Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, though it exhibited more body motion on undulating roads.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology, delivered 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provided smooth acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The GLS 450's nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic AWD system offered a refined driving experience, with Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes available. The GLS 450's fuel economy was rated at 11.3 L/100 km, with our test averaging 11.8 L/100 km. The adaptive air suspension and large Continental tires contributed to the GLS's impressive handling and ride comfort, making it a pleasure to drive.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue served as a practical family vehicle, offering ample space for four adults and the option to accommodate a fifth passenger. The Platinum trim featured premium leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing comfort. However, the rear seat comfort was lacking, with low-mounted cushions and diamond-shaped quilted pleats. The Rogue's cargo space was generous, with up to 1,028 litres available behind the rear seats and 2,064 litres with the seats folded. The Divide-N-Hide feature allowed for versatile cargo configurations, though storage areas were unlined, potentially causing noise.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a four-zone climate control system. The second-row captain's chairs provided excellent thigh support, though access to the third row was cumbersome. The third-row space was snug for adults but suitable for children. The GLS boasted practical cargo space, with 355 litres behind the third row, 1,209 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,400 litres with the seats folded. Despite some ergonomic challenges, the GLS's interior was spacious and well-appointed.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured an older infotainment system with an 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The test vehicle included a 9-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a Bose audio system. However, the voice recognition technology was limited, struggling with basic navigation requests. The Rogue also had a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display, both of which performed well during testing.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays for instrumentation and infotainment. The system offered improved graphics and themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and centre console caused occasional frustration. Despite these issues, MBUX was intuitive and user-friendly, with outstanding voice recognition and augmented reality navigation. The standard Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology provided an exceptional audio experience.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, Safety Shield 360, and ProPilot Assist with Navi-link. The SUV earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, it received lower scores in updated crash tests. ProPilot Assist impressed with its accuracy and ability to operate smoothly, though braking could be abrupt.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered over 20 significant safety features, with adjustable settings through MBUX. The advanced driving assistance systems performed exceptionally well, providing smooth and subtle operation. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems handled various driving conditions with ease, making the GLS a safe and reliable choice.