2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Subaru Outback

The 2023 Subaru Outback underwent a facelift, featuring a new front end with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper with dark grey vertical cladding. This design gave the Outback a more aggressive appearance, especially with the addition of a jutting simulated skid plate, fog lights in oversized housings, and asymmetrical wheel arch trim reminiscent of the Wilderness model. While these changes might not appeal to everyone, opting for a dark paint colour could help tone down the design's boldness. The Onyx Edition, with its black wheels and trim, complemented the cladding well. The Outback's interior, particularly in the Limited trim, was praised for its upscale feel, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and a cohesive design. Despite some hard plastic elements, the interior maintained a quality look and feel, though the infotainment screen and gloss black trim were prone to collecting dust and smudges.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE's exterior changes were subtle, with the most noticeable updates being the Mercedes star logos on the grille and slight modifications to the headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, was particularly striking. The interior of the GLE 450e exuded luxury, featuring Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery with natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior colour choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality cabin experience. The GLE's interior was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of headroom and legroom, and the light beige upholstery contributed to an airy feel. The GLE's cabin was noted for its class and luxury, making it one of the most robust-looking interiors in its segment.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured horizontally opposed engines, known for their flat design and characteristic grumble. The standard 2.5-litre engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT that mimicked an eight-speed automatic. While the engine was adequate for city driving, it struggled with passing and climbing, and the fuel economy was less than expected at 9.2 L/100 km. The Outback XT models, with a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine delivering 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, offered better performance but at a higher cost and reduced fuel efficiency. The Outback's AWD system and X-Mode traction system enhanced its off-road capabilities, and the vehicle's suspension provided a comfortable ride. However, the standard engine's lack of power was a drawback, especially at higher elevations.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 450e with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, producing a combined 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450e accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds, with a seamless transition between gas and electric power. The estimated fuel economy was 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres, with a range of 77 kilometres on electric power alone. The GLE's suspension was praised for its ability to absorb bumps and maintain a smooth ride, even on rough roads. The vehicle's steering was sophisticated, making it feel maneuverable despite its size. Overall, the GLE 450e's performance was nearly flawless, with a quiet cabin and excellent driving manners.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a purposeful roof rack and flat door sill trim. The Limited trim offered a comfortable interior with a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front and rear seats, and premium Nappa leather upholstery. The Outback provided ample legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for long trips. The cargo space measured 923 litres behind the back seat and 2,141 litres with the seats folded down. The Outback's design made it easy to enter and exit, and the roof rack was robust and ready for accessories. However, the vehicle could benefit from more practical storage space.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered generous headroom and legroom, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The cargo space measured 630 litres behind the second row, which was competitive with rivals. The GLE's optional third-row seat was limited to certain trims and was suitable only for young children. The vehicle included numerous comfort features, such as a Burmester surround-sound audio system, ventilated front seats, and a power liftgate. The GLE's interior was well-equipped, providing a luxurious and comfortable experience.

The 2023 Subaru Outback, except for the Base trim, featured a Starlink 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system included physical controls for volume and climate control, while other functions were embedded in the touchscreen. The voice recognition system was limited, and the graphics were not particularly appealing. Additional technologies included a camera-based digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree front-view camera, though a surround-view camera was not available.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be inadvertently activated, causing minor inconveniences.

The 2023 Subaru Outback was equipped with Subaru's EyeSight system, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The system also featured a new Automatic Emergency Steering function. The Outback received top safety ratings from the IIHS, including in the new side-impact crash test. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems were noted for their artificial steering feel.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included active lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year, though crash tests for the 2024 model were not yet completed.