2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2024 Subaru Outback

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that was characteristic of modern Mercedes design, with a subtlety that some might find bordering on mundane. However, this understated style promised longevity, especially when enhanced with upgraded wheels. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured stunning 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, polished metal accents, and a striking Twilight Blue paint, creating a sophisticated exterior. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, polished aluminum accents, and the intricate detailing Mercedes is renowned for, making it a luxurious space to spend time.

In contrast, the 2024 Subaru Outback maintained its rugged charm with a few updates, such as a new front fascia and LED fog lights on the Wilderness trim. The dark gray cladding paired with the Autumn Green Metallic paint on the Outback Touring XT was surprisingly appealing. The Outback's trims varied in their use of black and chrome exterior fittings, with the Touring trim featuring tasteful chrome accents. Inside, the top-trim Outback impressed with Java Brown Nappa leather upholstery, offering a level of luxury unexpected from Subaru. The interior materials varied across trims, with the Limited featuring standard leather, while the Onyx Edition and Wilderness used Subaru’s StarTex synthetic leather.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided smooth and swift acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The mild-hybrid system added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing the vehicle's responsiveness. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered a choice of driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg, though real-world testing yielded 19.9 mpg. The adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its impressive handling and braking performance.

The 2024 Subaru Outback, true to its brand, featured a "Boxer" engine. The standard 2.5-liter flat-four engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the XT trims, including the Wilderness, were equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine delivering 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This turbo setup increased the towing capacity to 3,500 lbs. The Touring XT test car's turbo engine managed the vehicle's weight well, and the CVT mimicked the feel of an eight-speed transmission. The Outback's steering and braking were adequate, with a focus on comfort. The Wilderness trim offered 9.2 inches of ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a wide range of adjustments. The front seats provided a commanding view, while the new steering wheel, despite its touch-sensing controls, was a pleasure to grip. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs offered excellent thigh support, though accessing the third row was cumbersome. The third-row space was snug for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2024 Subaru Outback, despite its sleek design, did not compromise on interior space. It offered more headroom and legroom than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The cargo area measured 32.6 cubic feet with all seats in place and 75.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Outback featured dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat starting with the Premium trim. Higher trims offered heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel. The hands-free power liftgate and power moonroof were available on higher trims, and the raised roof rails with retractable cross bars added practicality.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays for instrumentation and infotainment. The system offered improved graphics and various themes and modes. However, touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console touchpad could cause accidental changes, leading to confusion. Despite this, MBUX was praised for its intuitive operation, natural voice recognition, and augmented reality navigation.

The 2024 Subaru Outback Touring featured an 11.6-inch portrait-oriented infotainment screen, with the base trim retaining dual 7-inch screens. The Starlink multimedia platform included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity starting from the Premium trim. Climate controls were integrated into the touchscreen, with some hard buttons for essential functions. Wi-Fi capability, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and SiriusXM were standard, with most trims featuring a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with over 20 significant safety features, adjustable through the MBUX system. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) were praised for their effectiveness and subtle operation. The forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist systems were particularly noteworthy. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist handled various driving conditions smoothly, with only one minor issue during testing.

The 2024 Subaru Outback earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technologies was standard, including adaptive cruise control, automatic pre-collision braking, and lane-keep assist. The Onyx Edition added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Touring trim featured a wide-angle camera, digital rearview mirror, and driver-attention monitor.