2022 Subaru Forester vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, particularly the AMG GLE 53 variant, presented a design that was neither offensive nor overly striking. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork gave it a sophisticated appearance, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker from certain angles. Inside, the GLE 53 Coupe was a showcase of luxury, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather and a Dinamica simulated suede headliner. The dual-screen setup for instrumentation and infotainment added a modern touch, though the lack of traditional controls could initially confuse new users. However, with time, drivers could acclimate to the vehicle's technology, making it a more enjoyable experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester, especially in the Wilderness trim, emphasized practicality over aesthetics. Its rugged exterior, with a suspension lift and protective cladding, gave it a distinctive look, though not necessarily an attractive one. Inside, the Forester focused on functionality, with a cabin that combined hard plastics and soft surfaces to create a durable and purposeful environment. The StarTex simulated leather upholstery was water-repellent, catering to the adventurous spirit of its target audience. The Forester's interior was straightforward, with physical knobs and buttons for easy operation, making it user-friendly and intuitive.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, delivering 429 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 384 pound-feet of torque from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm. This engine, paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system called EQ Boost, provided robust acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. The GLE Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering various driving modes like Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The adaptive damping control air suspension and AMG Active Ride Control suspension enhanced the vehicle's performance, making it nimble and composed in urban settings and on highways. However, its size and weight were noticeable on challenging roads, and the performance exhaust system was quite loud in Sport+ mode.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 176 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. While it lacked a turbocharger, the Forester's CVT and AWD system provided a 25% increase in initial torque supply, doubling its towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms. The Forester Wilderness model featured a re-tuned suspension with longer springs and shocks, improving ground clearance and off-road capabilities. The dual-function X-Mode system offered various settings for different terrains, and the SUV excelled in off-road environments, though it could feel sluggish at higher altitudes. The Forester's long-travel suspension absorbed bumps well, and it handled off-road challenges with ease.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered seating for up to five people, though it was more comfortable for four. The front seats were highly adjustable, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, providing comfort on long drives. The back seat offered ample legroom, and the cargo hold measured 655 litres, expanding to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded. The GLE Coupe included luxury features like a four-zone automatic climate control system and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to its tall seating hip points. The StarTex upholstery was water-resistant, and the Wilderness trim included all-weather floor mats and a rubber cargo mat. The Forester's interior was spacious, with comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers. The upgraded roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 100 kilograms and a static load of 362 kilograms, making it suitable for outdoor adventures. Cargo space was generous, with 818 litres available without the panoramic sunroof, expanding to 2,101 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, offering a digital instrument cluster and touchscreen. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included a head-up display, a surround-view camera system, and a Burmester 3D high-end surround-sound system.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with available navigation and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The Forester Wilderness included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. The infotainment system was intuitive, though the voice recognition system was not always reliable.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 additional driver assistance systems, enhancing safety and collision avoidance. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, though crash-test results were unavailable. However, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester also offered a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The NHTSA awarded the Forester a 5-star overall crash-test rating, and it was expected to retain the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" rating.