2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE presented a smoother and less sculpted appearance compared to its predecessors. The softened lines and removal of most edges and scalloping contributed to a reduced drag coefficient from .32 to .29, making it a class leader according to Mercedes. The front end showcased the most significant visual transformation, resulting in a handsome, albeit unoffensive, vehicle. Inside, the GLE offered extra headroom and legroom due to a 3.1-inch wheelbase extension, allowing for an optional third row. However, the $720 Emerald Green Metallic paint on the test model revealed an unexpected orange-peel effect, detracting from its premium feel.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue, available in S, SV, and SL trims, maintained an attractive look despite its age. The bold V-Motion grille and exaggerated fender swells were balanced by the appealing 19-inch aluminum wheels on the SL trim. Inside, the Rogue's age was more apparent with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. However, the padded center console sides provided a thoughtful touch for driver comfort.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While it provided ample power at speed, it felt sluggish from a stop due to turbo lag and the vehicle's nearly 5,000-pound weight. The start-stop system was notably inelegant, and the 9-speed automatic transmission, though decent, lacked the smoothness of competitors like the BMW X5. Despite these issues, the GLE 350's fuel economy was commendable at 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue came with a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While the CVT made the most of the engine's power, the Rogue struggled during acceleration, passing, and climbing grades. The EPA estimated 29 mpg combined for FWD versions, but real-world testing yielded only 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling were improved by brake-induced technologies like Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but the vehicle was not particularly fun to drive due to lifeless steering and occasional CVT drone.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE's extended wheelbase provided significant interior space, especially in the second row. Depending on options, it offered between 33.3 and 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 79.4 cubic feet with the seats lowered. The interior featured dual 12.3-inch screens, setting a new standard for dash design and customizability. The seats were comfortable, though the lumbar support was tricky to adjust, and the "Seat Kinetics" system helped prevent discomfort on long drives. However, the steering wheel often blocked parts of the screen, and the upgraded Burmester stereo caused vibrations through the brake pedal.

In the 2020 Nissan Rogue, finding a comfortable driving position was challenging for taller drivers due to limited seat height adjustment. The rear seats, however, were spacious and comfortable, with a high cushion, proper backrest angle, and excellent view. Rear passengers also benefited from air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The Rogue offered 39 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, with additional underfloor storage and a standard Divide-n-Hide cargo management system.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the new MBUX infotainment system, which, despite its complexity, was a delight to use. The system included two 12.3-inch screens and a comprehensive head-up display (HUD). The driver-assistance tech was better than competitors, though it still had issues at high speeds. The natural voice control system, while impressive in the A-Class, was less reliable in the GLE.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades included SiriusXM, navigation, a Bose premium sound system, and NissanConnect Services with features like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. However, the 7-inch touchscreen was outdated, and the interface was slow and unresponsive, diminishing the overall tech experience.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE lacked current testing data from NHTSA and IIHS but offered an impressive suite of autonomous safety systems. Features like Attention Assist and Seat Kinetics aimed to prevent driver fatigue. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist systems were less reliable at high speeds, causing the vehicle to sway within the lane.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue included the standard Safety Shield 360 collection, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional options included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control. However, the Rogue's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and issues with headlight and front-passenger protection in IIHS testing.