2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Subaru Outback

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 Grey Oak trim, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment. The GLS 450 was the entry-level model, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.

In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Outback stood out as one of the few remaining wagons in the U.S., embracing crossover trends with its rugged design elements like chunky wheel-arch flares and a robust roof rack. The Crimson Red Pearl paint paired with a black leather interior added to its appeal. Subaru focused on off-road capabilities, which paid off with the Outback's popularity. The 2025 model retained its practicality, with trims like the Limited gaining features such as a power moonroof and advanced safety tech. The Touring XT trim offered Nappa leather and ventilated seats, enhancing comfort.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 delivered 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, providing smooth acceleration and a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. Its mild-hybrid system added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing responsiveness. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered versatility with Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy of 21 mpg. Its adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributed to its impressive handling and braking performance.

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower, while the XT trims offered a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines used a CVT and standard AWD. The Outback excelled off-road with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and Subaru’s X-Mode for enhanced traction. The Wilderness model increased ground clearance to 9.5 inches. The Outback provided a smooth ride with light steering and powerful brakes, though the stop/start technology and CVT had some drawbacks.

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. The GLS had ample cargo space, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 84.7 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Subaru Outback’s wagon design provided practicality with easy entry and a low roof for loading. It offered 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat up and 75.6 cubic feet with it folded. The Outback’s passenger volume was generous, with more front headroom and legroom than some crossovers. The towing capacity increased to 3,500 pounds with the turbo engine.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. It offered improved graphics and intuitive operation, though touch-sensitive controls could be distracting. The Burmester surround-sound system enhanced the audio experience, and the MBUX system included advanced voice recognition and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Subaru Outback’s 11.6-inch touchscreen was bright with large icons, but the Starlink system was slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, and the Harman Kardon audio system performed well. The dashboard had a mix of physical controls and touchscreen functions, and the Touring trim even included a CD player.

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

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured EyeSight technology with adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more. While effective, it had more side-to-side movement than desired. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Outback earned top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.