2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2025 Subaru Forester underwent a noticeable visual transformation, focusing on a more streamlined and generic appearance. While it maintained its function-first design, the styling updates included steering-responsive LED headlights and a new grille design. The Forester Sport featured bronze trim accents and 19-inch wheels, adding a mature touch. The interior saw improvements with StarTex material in the Sport trim and genuine leather in higher trims, creating a more intentional and designed cabin atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE retained its distinct identity with a rounded profile reminiscent of its predecessors. The GLE's design included squared-off wheel arches and a horizontal grille, giving it a wide stance. The interior offered unique colour options and upscale features like chunky air vents and ambient lighting. Despite its bulkier appearance, the GLE maintained a luxurious feel, with a focus on brand orthodoxy.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-litre Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It came with a Lineartonic CVT and standard Symmetrical AWD. The Forester's X-Mode system, with Hill Descent Control, enhanced stability on challenging terrain. Fuel economy was rated at 9.1 L/100 km in the city and 7.2 on the highway. While not particularly peppy, the Forester offered a smooth steering experience and confidence on various surfaces.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered five powertrain options, starting with the GLE 350's 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450 featured a 3.0-litre inline-six with 375 hp, while the GLE 450e combined a turbo-four with electric assist for 381 hp. The AMG GLE 53 and 63 S models delivered impressive performance, with the latter's V8 engine producing 603 hp. Despite its power, the GLE felt larger and less nimble, especially in urban settings.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate and increased cargo space, offering 779 litres with seats up and 1,957 litres with them down. The interior featured a dark headliner and heated front seats as standard, with power-adjustable options in higher trims. The Forester provided a roomy second row, though it lagged slightly behind competitors like the Toyota RAV4 in cargo space.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE came in two- and three-row configurations, with competitive cargo space of 894 litres behind the second row and 1,790 litres with seats folded. The GLE offered a high seating position but limited visibility. Second-row passengers enjoyed more space than in many rivals, and the GLE boasted a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kg, making it a versatile choice for those needing extra utility.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims included navigation, an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and enhanced Starlink connected services. The base model featured dual 7-inch touchscreens and wired smartphone projection.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured dual 12.3-inch screens with the MBUX system, offering wireless smartphone integration and built-in navigation. The interface could be accessed through various controls, including voice recognition. AMG models added drive modes and off-road displays, enhancing the driving experience with features like a "transparent hood" function for better terrain visibility.

The 2025 Subaru Forester offered advanced safety features, including Emergency Stop Assist and Subaru’s EyeSight suite. While crash-test ratings for 2025 were unavailable, the 2024 model received high marks. The Forester included adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a lane change assist system.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, with some available in optional packages. Standard features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and the Pre-Safe system. The GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though its front-crash prevention ratings varied.