2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Nissan Rogue

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was a testament to the brand's commitment to maintaining a balance between ruggedness and style. Its design was characterized by proper proportions and chiseled styling, which gave it a rugged yet appealing look. This was crucial, as aesthetics play a significant role in consumer decisions. The Rogue's lineup included various trims, with the Platinum trim offering a luxurious feel, thanks to its diamond-pattern leather seats and soft-touch materials. Despite its upscale features, the Rogue's price in the Platinum trim approached that of entry-level luxury vehicles, such as the Infiniti QX50.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a soft sensuality typical of modern Mercedes designs, which, while bordering on boring, aged gracefully. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, all complemented by a Twilight Blue paint job. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, polished aluminum accents, and the rich detailing Mercedes is known for. The GLS 450 was the most affordable version, yet it offered a luxurious experience with its turbocharged engine and mild-hybrid technology, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of performance and elegance.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue featured a new turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with a variable compression design, producing 201 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a CVT, powered the front wheels, with an optional AWD system available. The Rogue offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Auto, and Sport, with additional Off-Road and Snow modes for AWD versions. Despite its responsive performance in urban settings, the Rogue lacked highway passing power and had a unique engine note that some might find unrefined. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 31 mpg, but real-world testing showed an average of 28.9 mpg. The Rogue's suspension and steering provided a balanced ride, though it exhibited more body motion on uneven roads.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, delivered smooth and swift acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Its mild-hybrid system added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing its lively feel. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic AWD system offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes. The GLS 450's towing capacity was 7,700 pounds, with a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg, though real-world testing showed 19.9 mpg. The GLS 450's adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributed to its athleticism, while its brakes provided smooth stops. The Off-Road menu in MBUX offered a transparent view of the terrain, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue served as a practical family vehicle, accommodating four adults comfortably, with the option to squeeze in a fifth. The Platinum trim offered premium features like a triple-zone climate control system, panoramic sunroof, and Zero Gravity seats, though ventilated seats were unavailable. The Rogue's rear seat comfort was lacking, with low-mounted cushions and diamond-shaped pleats. Storage was plentiful, with a hands-free power liftgate revealing up to 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, equipped with the AMG Line package, featured sportier styling that could be cumbersome when entering or exiting the vehicle. The front seats offered comfort with leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs. The GLS provided expansive second-row legroom and a panoramic sunroof, though accessing the third row was challenging. The third-row space was snug for adults but suitable for children. Interior storage was decent, with cargo space ranging from 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row to 84.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system featured an 8-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen with stereo volume and tuning knobs. The test vehicle included a 9-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a navigation system. It also had a wireless charging pad and a Bose audio system. However, the Alexa Built-in system struggled with voice recognition, leading to frustration. The Rogue also featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a head-up display, both of which performed well.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered improved graphics and themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console caused occasional frustration. Despite this, MBUX was intuitive, with outstanding voice recognition and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos technology provided an impressive audio experience.

The 2023 Nissan Rogue was equipped with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and Safety Shield 360, which included various collision avoidance systems. Higher trims offered ProPilot Assist with Navi-link, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. The Rogue earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received lower scores in specific crash tests.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured over 20 significant safety features, with adjustable settings through MBUX. The ADAS systems, including forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist, operated smoothly and effectively. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist handled various driving conditions with ease, providing a seamless driving experience.