2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Subaru Forester

The 2023 Subaru Forester, despite its familiar and somewhat plain exterior, offered a practical and functional design that appealed to those who value utility over aesthetics. The Touring trim, with its 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome exterior trim, was the most visually appealing of the lineup. Inside, the Forester Touring featured Saddle Brown leather and metallic accents, maintaining a traditional Subaru design with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. The interior was busy but functional, with a mix of buttons and knobs that made controls easy to use. The Forester's design emphasized practicality, with robust roof rails and a spacious cabin, though it lacked some modern conveniences like ventilated seats.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance with its modern design, highlighted by the AMG rims and polished metal accents. The GLS 450 test vehicle's interior was luxurious, featuring a Bahia Brown over Black color scheme, natural-grain Grey Oak trim, and polished aluminum accents. The cabin was a testament to Mercedes' attention to detail, offering a comfortable and sophisticated environment. The GLS's design was both stylish and functional, with a focus on comfort and convenience, making it a pleasure to spend time in.

The 2023 Subaru Forester was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that mimicked a traditional automatic. The Forester's SI-Drive system offered a Sport mode for enhanced responsiveness, while the X-Mode off-road traction management system provided various driving modes for different terrains. Despite its modest power, the Forester's driving dynamics were impressive, with a comfortable yet communicative ride and excellent handling. However, the engine was merely adequate, and the Forester's fuel economy fell short of expectations, returning 25.9 mpg compared to the EPA's 29 mpg rating.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 450 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering smooth and seamless acceleration. Its nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system provided a sublime driving experience, with selectable driving modes for tailored dynamics. The GLS 450's adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributed to its athleticism, while its brakes performed admirably. The GLS also offered an Off-Road menu within MBUX for enhanced off-road capability.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering a practical and spacious interior. The Premium trim provided features like a panoramic sunroof and heated seats, while higher trims added leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. The Forester's outward visibility was excellent, and its doors were well-sealed. However, the panoramic sunroof's lack of tinting led to solar heating, and the rear seats lacked comfort for taller adults. The Forester's cargo space was generous, with 26.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.1 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, equipped with the AMG Line package, featured luxurious front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The GLS offered expansive second-row legroom and a standard panoramic sunroof, but accessing the third-row seat was cumbersome. The third-row space was snug for adults, but children would find it more accommodating. Interior storage was decent, and the cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row and 84.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Subaru Forester's technology appeared outdated at first glance, but its user-friendly interface was a highlight. The Base trim included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, while higher trims offered an 8-inch display with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Forester's infotainment system was simple and appealing, though the voice-recognition system was nearly useless, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with 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 and easy to use, with outstanding voice recognition and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester surround-sound system added to the GLS's technological appeal.

The 2023 Subaru Forester's next-generation EyeSight system included updated software and cameras for improved performance. Models with blind-spot monitoring added Automatic Emergency Steering, while higher trims offered Rear Automatic Braking. The Forester's safety systems performed well, though the RAB system was overly sensitive. The Forester earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The GLS's advanced driving assistance systems performed smoothly and transparently, handling various driving conditions with ease. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems were particularly impressive, providing a seamless driving experience.