2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Subaru Ascent

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that might have gone unnoticed by many. The changes were minimal, with the most noticeable being the clever Mercedes star logos on the front grille and slight modifications to the headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e test model, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, presented a handsome appearance. Inside, the GLE exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. The interior offered a wide range of customization options, including ten interior colour choices and five trims, making it one of the highest quality cabins in its segment.

In contrast, the 2024 Subaru Ascent struggled with its styling, particularly after a refresh that introduced visually offensive elements like tusks and a spear-like grille. The Ascent's design was functional and practical, with features like a panoramic sunroof, premium Nappa leather upholstery, and a surround-view camera available in the Premier trim. The interior materials were of good quality, but the design felt modular and lacked sophistication. Despite this, the Ascent was equipped with practical features like large cupholders, backpack pegs, and cargo hooks, making it a family-friendly choice.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, with the GLE 450e PHEV standing out for its balance of acceleration, handling, and fuel economy. The GLE 450e combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds and had a fuel economy of 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The GLE 450e's electric mode allowed for highway driving at speeds up to 140 km/h, and the transition between gas and electric power was seamless. The suspension was supple, and the steering was sophisticated, making the GLE 450e a standout performer in its class.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT and standard AWD. The Ascent excelled in various driving conditions, from city streets to off-road trails, and offered a towing capacity of up to 2,270 kilograms. However, it struggled on twisty mountain roads due to its weight and suspension tuning. The Ascent's fuel economy was less impressive, with ratings of 12.3 L/100 km in the city and 11.0 L/100 km combined. Despite these drawbacks, the Ascent's engine delivered good power with a characteristic Subaru grumble.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for five passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in both the first and second rows. The cabin felt light and airy, and visibility was excellent. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive for its class. Comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The GLE also boasted a range of luxury features, such as a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a cabin-air fragrance system.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent prioritized function over form, with practical features like a dashboard shelf, large cupholders, and cargo hooks. The Premier trim offered comfortable Nappa leather seats, though the front passenger seat lacked a height adjuster. The Ascent's rear doors opened wide, making it easy to load children and cargo. The third-row seat was suitable for short trips, and the Ascent provided up to 2,140 litres of cargo space with the second-row seats folded. The panoramic sunroof slightly reduced cargo space, but the Ascent remained a practical choice for families.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen. The system was user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an improved voice command system. Optional features included a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive, leading to unexpected volume changes.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent came with the Starlink infotainment system, featuring an 11.6-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a navigation system and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The system included physical buttons for common functions, but the display washed out in direct sunlight, and the voice-recognition system was subpar. The Premier trim included a surround-view camera and a digital rearview camera for added convenience.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE was equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included active lane-keep assist and evasive steering assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year, though crash tests for the 2024 model were pending.

The 2024 Subaru Ascent was synonymous with safety, featuring the EyeSight package with forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Ascent received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for rollover resistance, and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. However, the lane-centring assist technology was less impressive, occasionally causing steering issues.