2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2025 Subaru Forester underwent a noticeable visual transformation, focusing on a more generic yet refined appearance. It featured standard roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels, with higher trims offering larger wheels and distinctive accents. The Forester Sport, for instance, showcased bronze trim accents and 19-inch wheels, while the Touring trim boasted chrome badging and a low-profile roof rack. The interior received a thoughtful redesign, with structural dash elements and a more intentional look. Upholstery options varied by trim, with the Sport featuring StarTex material and higher trims offering genuine leather. Overall, the Forester's design aimed to balance practicality with a touch of sophistication.

In contrast, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded luxury and exclusivity, particularly with the new Manufaktur Edition Package available on the GLS 450. This package included 21-inch AMG wheels, exclusive paint colors, and premium interior materials. The GLS's interior mirrored the smaller GLE-Class but with superior materials and detailing. Despite some body creaks on cold mornings, the GLS maintained a high-quality feel. The dual 12.3-inch displays were well-integrated, and the control layout, though idiosyncratic, was easy to acclimate to. The GLS's design emphasized a tailored, luxurious experience, making it a standout in the full-size luxury SUV segment.

The 2025 Subaru Forester retained its 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain, paired with a Lineartonic CVT and standard Symmetrical AWD, offered a reliable but not particularly peppy performance. The Forester's X-Mode system, standard from the Premium trim, enhanced stability and traction on challenging terrains. Despite its modest power, the Forester impressed with its smooth steering and off-road capability. Fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined, with slight variations for Sport and Touring trims.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with mild-hybrid assist, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD, it accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The GLS offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual, with a standard Airmatic adaptive suspension enhancing ride quality. The GLS's fuel economy was EPA-rated at 21 mpg combined, though real-world testing yielded 19.4 mpg. The GLS excelled in providing a smooth, composed ride, with a tailored feel and impressive off-road capability.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate, enhancing convenience. Its cargo space increased slightly, offering 29.6 cubic feet with rear seats in place and 74.4 cubic feet with them folded. The Forester's roomy second row contributed to its competitive interior space, though it fell slightly short compared to some rivals. The interior featured a dark headliner and power-adjustable seats, with higher trims offering additional comfort features like seat ventilation and memory settings.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard seven-passenger seating, with a six-passenger configuration available. The GLS excelled in comfort, with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and optional massaging seats. The Manufaktur Edition Package added fabric pillows to the front-seat head restraints, though they were not universally appreciated. The GLS's cargo space measured 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with seats folded. While storage locations were limited, the GLS provided a spacious and luxurious interior experience.

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, with additional features like dual USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. The Touring trim added a navigation system and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, with Starlink connected services offering new capabilities like Valet Mode and Remote Vehicle Configuration.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays with the MBUX infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system with augmented reality, and a standard Burmester surround-sound system. Additional options included gesture control, a head-up display, and rear infotainment screens. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with a digital assistant capable of executing various commands, though it occasionally stumbled with specific requests.

The 2025 Subaru Forester offered advanced safety features, including Emergency Stop Assist, adaptive cruise control, and Subaru's EyeSight suite with enhancements for 2025. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the 2024 model received high marks, suggesting continued safety excellence.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted nearly 40 safety and driver-assistance systems, including Pre-Safe, Crosswind Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. While it lacked hands-free highway driver-assistance technology, the GLS provided a hands-on system with a touch-sensing steering wheel. The GLS's safety features required active driver participation, ensuring a smooth and refined driving experience.