2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Subaru Forester

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite subtle styling updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood and prominent corner lights. The vehicle's robust doors and latches added to its unique character, making it stand out among luxury SUVs. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the base G 550 models. The interior was opulent, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents and ambient lighting. AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Subaru Forester, redesigned for 2025, introduced the Wilderness model with a rugged look featuring a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and exclusive wheel designs. The Wilderness model's interior was designed for easy cleanup, with water-resistant artificial leather and all-weather floor mats. Copper accents and Wilderness emblems added a distinctive touch. The Forester offered a range of trims, with prices starting at $36,884. Subaru provided numerous accessory upgrades, including a rooftop tent option, enhancing the vehicle's utility for outdoor adventures.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the G 550 with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. The AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions with permanent 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG model introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. While lacking turbocharging, the Forester's CVT provided responsive performance, aided by a shorter final-drive ratio for better low-speed off-road capability. The Wilderness model's towing capacity increased to 1,587 kilograms. Subaru's Active Torque Split AWD system, with X-Mode Dual Mode traction settings, improved handling on various terrains. The Forester Wilderness excelled in off-road conditions, offering increased ground clearance and underbody protection.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, though not small, was more compact than some luxury SUVs, offering a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its traditional design impacted cargo space, with 640 litres available with the rear seats in place. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, comparable to midsize pickup trucks. Despite its size, the G-Class provided good forward visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, with a classic two-box design maximizing passenger and cargo space. The Forester Wilderness featured comfortable heated front seats, with the driver's seat offering 10-way power adjustment. Rear seat comfort was enhanced with improved legroom and safety features. The Forester provided 779 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,957 litres with the rear seats folded. Subaru offered various accessories to enhance the Forester's cargo-carrying capabilities.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Dual 12.3-inch screens served as the gauge cluster and infotainment touchscreen. The system included off-road menus, augmented reality navigation, and voice recognition. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment were expected to be standard.

The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system used Subaru Multimedia Plus software, offering SiriusXM satellite radio and MySubaru connected services. While lacking a digital voice assistant, the system provided basic voice recognition for simple commands. The Wilderness model included a 180-degree forward view camera system for improved trail visibility.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was equipped with standard driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centring.

The 2026 Subaru Forester featured the EyeSight package, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional safety features included active blind-spot monitoring and Emergency Stop Assist. The Forester received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.