2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, evolved from the GL-Class, which debuted in 2006. Initially intended to replace the G-Class, the GLS instead found its niche among affluent families seeking a luxurious, three-row SUV. The 2021 model featured softened angles and lines, giving it a more svelte appearance compared to its predecessors. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen that spanned nearly two-thirds of the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-centric design.

The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Standard features on the GLS 450 included remote keyless entry, remote start, nine USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a power liftgate. The AMG GLS 63, which we tested, stood out with aggressive bodywork, quad-outlet exhaust, and a chrome, slotted grille. Inside, it featured a performance-inspired flat-bottomed sport steering wheel with a leather strip at top-dead-center, adding a touch of motorsport flair to its luxurious interior.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, redesigned in 2021, continued to build on its reputation as a top seller, competing closely with the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. The 2022 model retained the mature, sophisticated styling introduced in the previous year, featuring Nissan’s V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a floating roof design. The SL and Platinum trims added LED fog lamps and other aerodynamic enhancements to improve airflow.

Inside, the Rogue showcased a layered dash design with contrasting colors and surfaces, creating a sophisticated look. The center console featured an electronic gear selector lever, freeing up space for additional storage beneath. The 9-inch infotainment display was positioned near the driver’s eye line, and the instrument panel offered either a 7-inch display or a full 12.3-inch digital screen in upper trims. Nissan’s Zero Gravity front seats provided comfort, while the second row offered ample legroom and space for passengers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 174 mph. All engines included Mercedes’ EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, adding an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed.

The AMG GLS 63 featured an adaptive, adjustable air suspension system, allowing it to adjust ground clearance between 7.9 and 8.5 inches. This system, combined with double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, provided exceptional cornering precision. The GLS also offered multiple drive-mode settings, including Individual, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, controlled via a dial and buttons on the sport steering wheel. Despite its size, the GLS delivered a composed ride, easily maneuverable in urban settings.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue received a performance boost from its new 1.5-liter VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine, part of the VC-Turbo family, featured Variable Compression technology, adjusting the compression ratio mechanically to optimize power and efficiency. The new engine improved the Rogue’s performance and fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 30 mpg city/37 mpg highway/33 mpg combined.

The Rogue’s new CVT transmission offered wider gear ratios, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness. The chassis and suspension provided a smooth, controlled ride with minimal body roll, while the electric power-assisted steering offered good feel and a tight 35.4-foot turning diameter.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Standard seven-passenger seating could be reduced to six with optional second-row captain’s chairs. The third row, while not as spacious, was still suitable for full-size adults. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The driver and front passenger enjoyed numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a center console with butterfly doors.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior storage options, with bottle holders, cupholders, a glove compartment, a center console bin, a tray beneath the center console, and various cubbies. Rear-seat passengers had storage options in the doors, seatbacks, and center armrest, along with USB-A and USB-C charge-only ports. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench. The Rogue offered 31.6-36.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it required a USB-C cable. The MBUX voice-control system responded to commands like “Find me a gas station” or “find me a seafood restaurant.” The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue’s technology upgrade included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch center infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display on upper trims. The Rogue used Google Maps and Waze with voice commands for navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay available on upper trims. ProPilot Assist, Nissan’s hands-on driver-assist technology, was available, integrating with the navigation system to adjust speed proactively based on road conditions.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a range of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features included automatic parking assist, a surround-view camera system, a driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Available safety tech included lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and stop-and-go cruise control.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. The Rogue had ten supplemental airbags and extended crumple zones. ProPilot Assist, available on upper trims, combined steering-assist and adaptive cruise control for advanced driver assistance. The 2022 Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2021 model.