2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2025 Nissan Rogue

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" from 1979. Despite continuous updates, the G-Class maintained its distinctive features, such as a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. For 2025, Mercedes introduced subtle styling updates, including a new grille and bumpers, while keeping traditional design elements intact. Functional changes included repositioning the rearview camera and adding new A-pillar trim and a rear spoiler to the base G 550 models. The interior was luxurious, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models offering sportier steering wheels.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue, available in six trims in Canada, offered a more modern and tech-savvy design. The SV trim was popular for its balance of price and features, including an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The Platinum trim, which we tested, boasted semi-aniline leather seating, a panoramic sunroof, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The Rogue's exterior featured a blocky shape, large grille, and thin headlights, with a two-tone colour option for added flair. The interior was praised for its quality materials and user-friendly controls, with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen offering Google-based apps and navigation.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models included a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions with permanent four-wheel drive. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 also featured a new AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue, powered by a 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. The engine was paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. While the Rogue's powertrain was smooth and refined, it lacked the punch of some competitors. The steering was light and accurate, and the braking system offered smooth pedal feel. The Rogue's CVT contributed to its fuel efficiency without compromising refinement, making it a practical choice for those prioritizing comfort over performance.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, though not as spacious as some luxury SUVs, offered a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom. Its compact dimensions made it easier to manoeuvre and park compared to larger rivals. The G-Class provided 640 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place, and a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms. The interior design allowed for a commanding view of the road, with good forward visibility and trademark corner lamps aiding in navigation.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue impressed with its well-designed interior, featuring quilted leather seating and user-friendly controls. The Rogue offered 978 millimetres of rear legroom, competitive among compact SUVs, and 1,028 litres of cargo space behind the second row. The Divide-and-Hide storage system added versatility to the cargo area. The cabin included creative storage solutions, such as a compartment beneath the centre console, enhancing practicality for everyday use.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the advanced Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two 12.3-inch screens served as the gauge cluster and infotainment touchscreen, creating a seamless display. The G-Class included off-road menus, augmented reality navigation, and a Burmester 3D surround sound system. Additional features like a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system enhanced the tech offering.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system varied by trim, with an 8-inch screen on lower trims and a 12.3-inch screen on upper trims. The larger screen offered wireless smartphone connectivity and Google navigation. The system was intuitive and responsive, with ProPilot Assist providing hands-free highway driving on pre-mapped roads. A wireless charging pad added convenience, ensuring devices stayed powered during journeys.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The G-Class also featured Mercedes' Pre-Safe system, which prepared the vehicle for an imminent crash. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop function.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" score in the side impact test. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Optional features included a head-up display, ProPilot Assist, and a surround-view camera system, enhancing the Rogue's safety credentials.