2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known for its iconic boxy design, was a blend of ruggedness and luxury. Its straight-edged, two-box design was a nod to its military origins, yet it had become a status symbol among the elite. The G-Class offered a retro exterior that stood out in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, with a hand-built construction in Graz, Austria. Inside, the G-Class featured a sophisticated design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and a matching virtual instrument panel, allowing for a customizable and ambient cabin experience. Despite its luxurious appeal, the G-Class remained a capable off-road machine, often seen in bold custom colors and adorned with extravagant features.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester was all about practicality and utility. The Forester Wilderness model, in particular, was designed for adventure, with a rugged appearance enhanced by a suspension lift and protective cladding. Its interior focused on function over form, with water-repellant StarTex simulated leather and all-weather floor mats. The Forester's infotainment system was user-friendly, featuring an 8-inch Starlink system with physical controls. While the Forester's exterior might not have been its strongest suit, its interior offered a well-constructed and purposeful environment, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a versatile and capable compact SUV.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was a powerhouse, with the G550 model boasting a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This allowed the hefty SUV to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. The G-Class featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, with Dynamic Select driving programs for various terrains. Its off-road capabilities were impressive, with adjustable suspension, three locking differentials, and a turning circle of 44.6 feet. The AMG G63 variant took performance to another level, with 577 horsepower and a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. However, the G-Class's fuel economy was a downside, with ratings of 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for the G550.

The 2022 Subaru Forester, while not as powerful, offered a balanced driving experience. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivered 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive. The Wilderness model featured a CVT design that increased initial torque supply by 25%, doubling its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The Forester's fuel economy was commendable, with an EPA rating of 26 mpg combined. The SUV excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its dual-function X-Mode system and re-tuned suspension, providing improved ground clearance and handling. While it lacked the power of a turbocharged engine, the Forester's practicality and capability made it a strong contender in its class.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a spacious and luxurious interior, with a cargo capacity of 38.1 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded flat. Its body-on-frame construction allowed for a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. The G-Class's cabin was roomy, with comfortable seats and ample storage options. However, some luxury features, like ventilated front seats, were only available in expensive packages. The G-Class's spare tire was mounted on the tailgate, adding to its distinctive style.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit and a practical interior design. Its StarTex upholstery was water-resistant, and the Wilderness model included all-weather floor mats and a rubber cargo mat. The Forester's roof rails were upgraded to accommodate a three-person roof tent, enhancing its adventure-ready appeal. The SUV offered comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers, with decent storage space and a cargo capacity of 28.9 cubic feet, expandable to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Forester's practicality and spaciousness made it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile compact SUV.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class impressed with its twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. These customizable screens allowed for a personalized driving experience, complemented by the Burmester Surround Sound system. The G-Class featured the latest COMAND system, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for easy navigation. While WiFi was standard, wireless device charging was not available. The G-Class offered a rear-seat entertainment system and standard connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came equipped with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, and Starlink connected services. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with navigation and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The Forester Wilderness included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. The SUV's technology package was practical and user-friendly, with features like PIN Code Access for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of standard safety features, including a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, and active brake assist. Its size and body-on-frame construction provided safety advantages in certain crashes, but its weight posed risks to pedestrians and cyclists. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, with improved camera-based technology and a new Automatic Emergency Steering system. It included features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and was expected to retain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS. The Touring trim featured DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology for monitoring driver alertness.