2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Nissan Rogue

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent a subtle exterior update that might have gone unnoticed by many. The changes included clever Mercedes star logos on the front grille and slight modifications to the headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e model, in particular, stood out with its Twilight Blue metallic finish and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, which added a touch of elegance. The interior of the GLE 450e exuded luxury with its Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of choices for both exterior and interior customization, ensuring a high-quality and robust-looking cabin.

In contrast, the 2024 Nissan Rogue received its first major styling update since its 2021 launch. The new design featured a larger grille, stack headlights, and redesigned taillight elements. The Rogue Platinum model boasted more black exterior trim and an optional black roof. Inside, the Rogue Platinum impressed with its upscale interior, featuring leather seats with quilted stitching and a new Chestnut brown color option. The dashboard was updated to accommodate a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, giving the Rogue a more premium feel. The Rogue's interior design and materials contributed to its appeal as a top-tier trim level.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a diverse range of powertrains, catering to various SUV shoppers. The lineup included the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, along with two AMG models, the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S. The AMG GLE 63 S featured a twin-turbo V8 engine producing 603 horsepower, delivering sports car-like speed. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, generated a combined output of 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and offered an estimated electric-only range of 40 miles. The GLE 450e's transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and its suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with a VC-Turbo system, allowing it to vary its compression ratio for power or fuel economy. With 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, the Rogue's engine outperformed many competitors. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was slow to transfer power to the wheels, affecting overall performance. The Rogue's suspension felt firmer than expected, impacting ride quality without enhancing handling. Despite the engine's impressive performance, the Rogue's exhaust note was less appealing.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for passengers in both the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin feel. It offered 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. The GLE's optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 models and was suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e came with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. Additional options included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue offered competitive passenger space, with differences mainly in legroom compared to rivals. It provided 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 74.1 cubic feet with them folded. The optional Divide-N-Hide system allowed for flexible cargo configurations. The Rogue's center console featured a pass-through space for added storage, though accessing it was somewhat awkward. The Rogue was available with a power liftgate and a motion-activated liftgate on higher trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main infotainment display. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel occasionally caused issues with volume control.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue came with an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, while SL and Platinum models received a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Rogue was the first Nissan to feature Google built-in software, integrating Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play app store. The dual 12.3-inch screen setup improved the infotainment experience, though the touchscreen was occasionally slow to boot up. The Rogue offered multiple USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad on higher trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came equipped with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. The optional Driver Assistance package added features like active blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. These safety systems were unobtrusive during everyday driving and provided an extra layer of security.

The 2024 Nissan Rogue received favorable safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. It earned top "Good" ratings in various crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Standard driver-assist features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. The optional ProPilot Assist system offered advanced driver assistance, with automated lane centering and navigation-based speed adjustments on higher trims.