2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Subaru Outback

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of practicality and opulence. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was designed to replace the G-Class, but the latter's enduring popularity led the GLS to cater to a different audience. The GLS featured a sleek design with softened angles, making it appear less bulky than its predecessors. Inside, the cabin was futuristic, dominated by a massive digital screen that spanned most of the dashboard, emphasizing the vehicle's tech-centric nature. The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Standard features included a plethora of tech and comfort amenities, with various packages available to enhance luxury and performance.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Outback, redesigned for the 2020 model year, maintained a familiar and comfortable feel reminiscent of older models. While the base trim had a less appealing dashboard with dual 7-inch touchscreens, higher trims boasted an 11.6-inch portrait display that was both bright and sharp. The interior quality was a significant improvement over pre-2015 models, with substantial materials and comfortable seating. The Outdoor XT trim featured water-resistant upholstery with lime green stitching, adding a touch of flair. Externally, the Outback's design was practical, with high gray cladding for protection and a smooth, balanced silhouette. The 2021 model introduced adaptive LED headlights and a new paint option, maintaining its identity as a lifted wagon, ideal for those seeking an alternative to traditional SUVs.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC featured a more robust twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission paired with the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds. All engines included Mercedes’ EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, providing an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed. The GLS 63 featured an adaptive air suspension system, offering adjustable ground clearance and precise handling, with multiple drive modes for a customizable driving experience.

The 2021 Subaru Outback, on the other hand, was powered by a 2.5-litre boxer flat-four engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), struggled with the vehicle's weight, resulting in sluggish performance. However, the XT trims offered a turbocharged 2.4-litre flat-four engine, delivering 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving performance. The Outback's handling was designed for comfort, with long-travel springs and 22 cm of ground clearance, making it capable on rough roads. Subaru's electronically-variable AWD system provided excellent traction, with X-Mode enhancing off-road capability. Despite its lack of speed, the Outback excelled in ride comfort and off-road proficiency.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row passengers. The third row, while less spacious, could still accommodate full-size adults. The GLS provided 355 litres of cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and 2,400 litres with both the second and third rows down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a centre console with butterfly doors.

The 2021 Subaru Outback boasted impressive interior space, with 2,144 litres of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded and 920 litres with them raised. The cargo area was wide and flat, free of obstructions. The Outback offered excellent visibility, thanks to thin pillars and ample glass. Storage options included large map pockets, bottle holders, and a front centre console with additional pockets. While some features like push-button start and rear console climate vents were not standard, the Outback's standout feature was its integrated roof rails and crossbars, allowing for easy installation of roof racks.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a massive touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. The MBUX system offered voice control, activated by saying "Mercedes," and a digital dash that extended to the instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system, while functional, appeared dated. It included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional navigation. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, provided adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. However, the system relied solely on cameras, lacking radar supplementation.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety tech included lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The GLS was equipped with a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a stronger chassis and standard airbags, with additional driver-assist technology available on higher trims. It earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included Subaru EyeSight, with adaptive cruise control and forward emergency braking.