2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE exhibited subtle yet impactful aesthetic changes. The headlights and taillights were sharper, and black fender flares adorned the wheel arches. The grille featured chrome inserts, adding a touch of elegance. The optional AMG Line package enhanced the sportiness of the exterior, complemented by standard 19-inch wheels, with an option to upgrade to 21-inch. Inside, the cabin maintained the classic Mercedes-Benz luxury with leather and soft-touch surfaces, though it lacked the futuristic vibe of the newer EQ models. The open-pore walnut trim was visually appealing, but the Bahia Brown seating created a dated look, which could be remedied by opting for lighter leather.

In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Forester focused on practicality and capability, with noticeable visual updates. Standard roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels were introduced, and the design was smoothed out, resulting in a more generic appearance. The Forester Sport featured bronze trim accents and 19-inch wheels, while the Limited and Touring trims offered 18-inch and 19-inch wheels, respectively. The large-greenhouse shape was retained, with geometric wheel arches and a more decisive window shape. The interior featured cloth upholstery with blue contrast stitching, while higher trims offered StarTex material or genuine leather. The cabin had a more intentional design, with structural dash elements adding to its appeal.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the entry-level GLE 350 with 255 horsepower, the mid-line GLE 450 with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, and the top-tier 4.0-liter V8 in the GLE 580. The new 450e plug-in hybrid, however, was the highlight, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque in hybrid mode. Despite being slower to 60 mph than the GLE 450 due to its 23.3-kWh battery, it offered an impressive electric range of up to 55 miles. The transition from electric to gas power was seamless, though the driving dynamics were more comfort-oriented than sporty. The 450e featured an 11-kW onboard charger and could accept a 60-kW DC fast charge.

The 2025 Subaru Forester retained its 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. The Lineartonic CVT and Symmetrical AWD system were standard, with the X-Mode system available from the Premium trim. The Forester Sport and higher trims featured a dual-function X-Mode for enhanced off-road capability. The Forester's performance was stable and confident on various surfaces, though acceleration was modest. Fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined, with a slight decrease for Sport and Touring trims. A hybrid version was anticipated, but details were not yet available.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in interior luxuries, with standard heated front seats and optional ventilation and massage functions. Heated and cooled cup holders, customizable ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and soft-close doors added to the comfort. The Burmester stereo system provided an exceptional audio experience. The GLE could tow up to 7,700 pounds and featured Trailer Maneuvering Assist. Cargo space was generous, with 31.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate, standard on the Sport trim and available on others. The cargo space increased slightly to 29.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 74.4 cubic feet when folded. The cargo area featured eight heavy-duty hooks. The Forester offered a roomy second row, though it lagged behind some competitors in cargo space. The interior included a dark headliner, power-adjustable seats, and heated options on higher trims.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch screen. The system was user-friendly, with a touchpad on the center console and voice control via "Hey, Mercedes." Augmented reality navigation and an off-road page were notable features. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though connectivity issues were noted. Multiple USB-C ports provided ample charging options.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus infotainment system, standard on all but the base trim. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. The Touring trim featured a voice-activated navigation system and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Subaru's Starlink connected services offered additional capabilities, including Valet Mode and Remote Vehicle Configuration.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered advanced driver aids, with standard blind-spot monitoring and an optional Driver Assistance Package Plus. The package included active blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-change assist. The GLE received a five-star side crash rating and a four-star rollover rating from the NHTSA, and a "Good" rating from the IIHS in various categories.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured Starlink Connected Services, including Emergency Stop Assist on the Touring trim. The EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technology was standard, with enhancements for 2025. The Forester had not yet been crash-tested, but the 2024 model received a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.