2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary design improvements that Subaru had been implementing since the model's inception. The third-generation Crosstrek maintained the aesthetic changes introduced in 2024, such as the new sheet metal and chassis construction. The most striking update was the front fascia, featuring a frameless grille with a curved wing bar that seamlessly connected with the headlights, creating a distinctive smile-like appearance. The aerodynamic air inlets and outlets integrated into the black plastic cladding around the wheel arches were a thoughtful touch, enhancing both fuel efficiency and reducing road noise. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a harmonious blend of rugged utility and refined comfort, with a straightforward design that emphasized functionality. The cabin featured consistent material quality, with soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics, while the gray StarTex seats with orange contrast stitching added a subtle design flair.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent more extensive styling changes compared to its previous facelift in 2024. The fourth-generation model, which had been around since 2020, introduced a star motif for the lights and grille, incorporating three-pointed stars into the headlights, taillights, and grille. This design choice aimed to create a cohesive visual identity, although it resulted in a somewhat discordant collection of styling features. The GLE SUV retained its rounded silhouette, reminiscent of the old M-Class, but the combination of boxy fenders and squared-off lower detailing created a jarring contrast. Inside, the dashboard was rearranged to accommodate the standard door-to-door Superscreen display, while fit and finish remained consistent with Mercedes' high standards. Material quality varied depending on the trim level, with entry-level models featuring MB-Tex artificial leather and grained plastic, while higher trims offered more luxurious options like wood trim and real leather upholstery.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came standard with all-wheel drive (AWD) and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It featured a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine alongside the new hybrid powertrain. The hybrid model, powered by a 2.5-liter Atkinson/Miller-cycle engine paired with a 118-hp traction motor, delivered a total system output of 194 horsepower, making it the fastest Crosstrek to date. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators, with one handling engine start/stop functions and battery charging, while the other acted as a drive motor and assisted with regenerative braking. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid achieved 31 miles per gallon, slightly below the EPA's estimate of 36 mpg. Subaru's AWD system, combined with the X-Mode traction management system, provided enhanced capability on variable terrain, although the steering feel remained light and somewhat disconnected.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a wide range of powertrain options, including four-, six-, and eight-cylinder engines, as well as two plug-in hybrid powertrains. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD. The base GLE 350 4Matic had a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower, while the GLE 450 4Matic featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 375 hp. The GLE 580 4Matic boasted a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with 530 hp. Mercedes made several tweaks to these engines for 2027, including a switch to a flat-plane crank for the V8 to reduce emissions. The GLE 500e 4Matic plug-in hybrid offered 429 hp, while the AMG GLE 53 Hybrid and AMG GLE 63 S delivered 577 hp and 603 hp, respectively. The V8 models impressed with their smooth power delivery and quick acceleration, while the optional air suspension system enhanced the luxurious ride quality.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid marked Subaru's third attempt at a hybrid Crosstrek, addressing previous compromises such as limited cargo space and a small gas tank. The latest model offered more horsepower and increased cargo capacity, with 18.6 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and a total of 50.6 cubic feet with the rear row folded. The gas tank remained at 16.6 gallons, allowing for an impressive range of up to 597 miles. Rear-seat space was generous, with 36.7 inches of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. However, front storage was limited, with a small tray for a wireless charging pad and two cupholders.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE continued to offer two-row and three-row options, with the latter providing a third-row seat for added versatility. Interior dimensions remained unchanged, offering class-competitive first-row headroom but slightly limited legroom. Standard features included heated power front seats with four-way lumbar and memory, while ventilation and massage options were available. Second-row headroom and legroom were generous, and the SUV models now came with a standard panoramic glass roof. The GLE SUV offered 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded. The GLE Coupe had slightly reduced cargo space due to its lower roofline. The GLE's maximum towing capacity remained at 7,700 pounds.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen as standard, but the infotainment system fell short compared to competitors like the Kia Niro Hybrid and Hyundai Kona. The software was slow and prone to lag, and the touchscreen was a fingerprint magnet. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, many controls were relegated to touchscreen buttons, which could be frustrating. The Limited Hybrid trim included a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, although the navigation map couldn't display Google Maps when using phone projection.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE introduced the Superscreen display, consisting of three 12.3-inch screens forming the dashboard fascia. The MBUX infotainment system was upgraded with the MB.OS operating system and AI-enhanced voice assistant. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were retained, the new features didn't significantly improve the user experience. The GLE also offered an augmented-reality head-up display, an inward-facing camera for videoconferencing, and a 15-speaker Burmester audio system on all but the base model.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid received mixed safety ratings. The IIHS did not award it a Top Safety Pick designation due to a Marginal score in the moderate overlap front crash test and an Acceptable score in the side-impact test. However, the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall safety rating. Subaru equipped the Crosstrek Hybrid with EyeSight Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and automatic emergency braking.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitors, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. The GLE's sensor suite supported advanced driver-assistance systems, and the new headlights could be programmed to steer high beams away from oncoming drivers. The structurally identical 2026 model received the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.