2022 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, with its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork, presented a balanced aesthetic that was neither offensive nor overly dramatic. Despite its resemblance to an athletic sneaker from certain angles, the GLE Coupe managed to maintain a sophisticated appearance. Inside, the vehicle was as luxurious as expected, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech touch, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Rogue, redesigned in 2021, continued to sport a mature and refined look. The exterior featured Nissan’s V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a floating roof design. The interior followed a layered dash design trend, with contrasting colors and surfaces in some trims. The center console was a highlight, featuring an electronic gear selector lever, ample storage space, and a 9-inch infotainment display. The Rogue’s Zero Gravity bucket-style front seats and roomy second row provided comfort, while the fit and finish, especially in the Platinum model, were exemplary.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 hp at 6,100 rpm and 384 lb-ft of torque from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm. The engine featured EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that added extra power when needed and helped conserve fuel. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 19 mpg, though our test vehicle achieved 18.5 mpg. The GLE 53 Coupe also boasted a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system with fully variable torque distribution. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, and the AMG Active Ride Control suspension provided a smooth ride. However, the 22-inch wheels and low-profile tires were less forgiving on rough roads.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue, benefiting from a new 1.5-liter VC-Turbo engine, delivered 201 hp and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine featured Variable Compression technology, which adjusted the compression ratio for optimal performance and efficiency. The Rogue’s fuel economy was impressive, with EPA estimates of 30 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined. The new CVT transmission offered wider gear ratios, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness. The Rogue’s chassis and suspension provided a smooth, controlled ride with minimal body roll, and the electric power-assisted steering had a good feel with a tight turning diameter of 35.4 feet.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe could technically seat five people, but it was more comfortable for four, especially if the rear passengers were adults. The front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, making long drives comfortable. The rear seats provided ample legroom, and the cargo space was generous, with 27.5 cubic feet available, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated armrests, and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior space and storage options. The front cabin featured numerous storage compartments, including bottle holders, cupholders, a glove compartment, a center console bin, and more. Rear-seat passengers also had ample storage options and USB ports for device charging. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo. The Rogue’s cargo area offered 31.6-36.5 cubic feet of space, expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with the second row folded flat.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe came standard with the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens, a navigation system, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless smartphone charging. The Burmester surround-sound audio system was also standard. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, and an upgraded Burmester 3D high-end surround-sound system.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue’s technology suite 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. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless Apple CarPlay available on higher trims. ProPilot Assist, Nissan’s hands-on driver-assist technology, was available and integrated with the navigation system for predictive speed control. The Intelligent Key allowed for easy access to both front and rear doors.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and Pre Safe Sound. The optional Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional safety systems, including Traffic Jam Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLE Coupe’s lane-keeping assistance technology was particularly effective. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

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