2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 Subaru Outback

The 2025 Subaru Outback stood out in a dwindling market of wagons in the United States, embracing the crossover aesthetic with its rugged design elements like chunky wheel-arch flares and skid plate-inspired fascias. Its Crimson Red Pearl paint complemented the black leather interior, though earthy tones were deemed more fitting for its adventurous spirit. Subaru's focus on off-road capabilities paid off, as the Outback, along with the Crosstrek and Forester, became top sellers by appealing to a niche yet loyal segment of buyers. The 2025 model saw no major changes, but the Limited trim gained features like a power moonroof and a 360-degree heated steering wheel, enhancing its appeal.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of models, with the GLE 450 being a standout for its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology. The Manufaktur Edition Package added exclusive features like 21-inch wheels and Nappa leather, though the Moonlight White Magno paint highlighted the GLE's less-than-exciting exterior design. Inside, the GLE boasted a luxurious cabin with matte-finish wood and ambient lighting, though the standard suspension left much to be desired in terms of handling. Despite its shortcomings, the GLE's interior comfort and technology features made it a compelling choice for luxury SUV buyers.

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured a signature Boxer engine available in two forms: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine producing 260 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a CVT and standard AWD, with the turbocharged version offering a more spirited drive. The Outback excelled off-road with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, enhanced to 9.5 inches in the Wilderness model, which also included additional X-Mode settings for challenging terrains. On-road, the Outback provided a smooth and comfortable ride, though its stop/start technology and CVT had room for improvement.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid system, delivered 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Its nine-speed automatic transmission offered various driving modes, but the standard suspension allowed too much body motion, detracting from the driving experience. The GLE's towing capacity of 7,700 pounds was impressive, and its off-road capabilities were supported by features like Downhill Speed Regulation. However, the GLE's performance was marred by a sluggish stop/start system and delayed transmission responses, though it excelled in long-distance comfort and fuel efficiency.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's wagon shape provided practicality with easy entry and exit, a low roof for loading, and a low center of gravity for agile handling. Its cargo space measured 32.6 cubic feet with the rear seat up and 75.6 cubic feet with it folded, offering a flat floor and square shape for maximum utility. The Outback's passenger volume of 109 cubic feet surpassed its crossover competitors, though rear seat dimensions were slightly smaller. Buyers could choose between different trims and engine options, with towing capacity increasing to 3,500 pounds with the turbocharged engine.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a quiet cabin with firm yet comfortable front seats featuring heating and "energizing seat kinetics." The Exclusive Package added ventilated seats and Nappa leather. The back seat was spacious but positioned low for a flat load floor, providing ample headroom and legroom. An optional third-row seat added versatility, though it was costly. The GLE's cargo space measured 33.3 cubic feet behind the back seat and 74.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, with thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's technology package included an 11.6-inch touchscreen with large icons, though the Starlink infotainment system was slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless functionality on most trims. The Harman Kardon audio system performed well, though navigation alerts limited audio output. The dashboard featured a mix of physical controls and touchscreen functions, with a CD player and USB ports catering to various tech preferences.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays offering lush graphics and configurations. A biometric system loaded user profiles, and the digital voice assistant performed well, though it struggled with urgent requests. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester audio system and augmented-reality navigation, enhancing the tech experience. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM and Mercedes Digital Extras.

The 2025 Subaru Outback came equipped with EyeSight driver-assist technology, offering features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Outback earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, indicating strong safety performance.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitors. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, among other features. The GLE's Active Emergency Stop Assist and touch-sensing steering wheel were notable safety innovations. However, some driver aids were inconsistent, and the GLE had not yet received an NHTSA safety rating, though it earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.