2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance with its modern design, which, while understated, promised longevity. 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. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment.

In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Forester focused on practicality with a more generic design. It featured standard roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels, with the Sport trim showcasing bronze accents and 19-inch wheels. The Forester maintained its large-greenhouse shape but introduced geometric wheel arches and a more decisive window design. Inside, the Forester Sport offered StarTex upholstery with brown contrast stitching, while higher trims included genuine leather and enhanced seating features.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 delivered 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering smooth and swift performance. The GLS featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and a variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, with driving modes like Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. It had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a fuel economy of 21 mpg combined, achieving 19.9 mpg during testing.

The 2025 Subaru Forester, powered by a 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine, produced 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It used a Lineartonic CVT and Symmetrical AWD. The Forester's X-Mode system, standard from the Premium trim, enhanced stability on challenging terrain. The Forester achieved 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined, with Sport and Touring trims slightly lower. It offered a stable and confident ride on various surfaces, though acceleration was modest.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered luxurious comfort with leather surfaces, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent support, though accessing the third row was cumbersome. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate and increased cargo space to 29.6 cubic feet with seats up, and 74.4 cubic feet with them down. It featured a roomy second row and practical interior elements like a dark headliner and power-adjustable seats. The Forester balanced cargo capacity with passenger comfort effectively.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays, offering improved graphics and intuitive operation. However, touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console caused occasional frustration. The system included a Burmester surround-sound system and advanced navigation features.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, standard on all but the base trim. It offered USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Touring trim included a navigation system and Harman Kardon sound system, with additional connected services enhancing functionality.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through the MBUX system. Its ADAS provided smooth and effective assistance, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist performing well on various terrains.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured Subaru’s EyeSight suite with enhancements for 2025, including a wider field of view and an electric brake booster. Emergency Stop Assist was available on the Touring trim. While crash-test ratings were pending, the 2024 model had received high safety marks.