2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Subaru Outback

The 2025 Subaru Outback was a testament to the enduring appeal of wagons, especially in Canada where such vehicles were more appreciated than in the United States. Its design incorporated all the essential crossover elements, including robust wheel-arch flares and skid plate-like fascias, which conveyed its off-road capabilities. The Outback's rugged exterior was complemented by a practical interior, featuring minimal use of chrome and glossy black plastic. The dashboard housed easy-to-read gauges and a small digital display that provided essential information. Subaru's focus on off-road enthusiasts paid off, as the Outback, along with the Crosstrek and Forester, became one of the brand's best-selling models. The 2025 model retained its core features, offering heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada, with higher trims boasting additional amenities like Nappa leather upholstery and ventilated front seats.

In contrast, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded luxury and sophistication. The GLS lineup included the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, with prices ranging from $125,395 to $247,795 in Canada. The GLS 450, our test vehicle, featured 21-inch AMG wheels and a premium leather interior. Its design was sporty, thanks to the AMG styling details, and the interior was crafted with high-quality materials. Despite some body creaks on cold mornings, the GLS offered a comfortable and quiet ride. The standard leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and panoramic sunroof added to the luxurious feel. The dual 12.3-inch displays were well-integrated into the dashboard, providing a seamless user experience. The GLS's tailored dimensions made it easier to handle in urban settings compared to its larger competitors, while still offering a composed ride and solid dynamics.

The 2025 Subaru Outback was powered by a horizontally opposed "Boxer" engine, available in two configurations. The standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged 2.4-litre engine in the Wilderness and XT trims delivered 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Both engines ran on regular unleaded gas and were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The Outback's ground clearance of 22 centimetres, increased to 24.1 centimetres in the Wilderness model, and Subaru's X-Mode system enhanced its off-road capabilities. The Outback offered a smooth and comfortable ride, with light steering, smooth throttle, and powerful brakes. However, the stop/start technology and CVT's response time were noted as areas for improvement.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid assist, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, the GLS 450 accelerated from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The GLS offered various driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual, with the Airmatic adaptive suspension enhancing its driving dynamics. The GLS's towing capacity was 3,500 kilograms, slightly less than some competitors. While the powertrain occasionally exhibited delays in responsiveness, the turbo-six engine provided a satisfying sound under hard acceleration. The GLS's tailored dimensions and supple ride made it a standout in the full-size luxury SUV segment.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's wagon shape provided practicality, with easy entry and exit due to its lower chassis. The cargo space measured 923 litres with the rear seat up and 2,141 litres with the bench folded, offering a flat floor and square shape for maximum utility. The Outback's total passenger volume of 3,044 litres surpassed its crossover competitors, providing ample front headroom and legroom. The standard towing capacity was 1,225 kilograms, increasing to 1,588 kilograms with the turbocharged engine.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard seven-passenger seating, with a six-passenger configuration available. The GLS provided exceptional comfort, with features like a four-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. Comfort upgrades included massaging seats, a rapid heating system, and an executive-style rear seat package. The cargo space behind the third row was 355 litres, expanding to 1,209-1,379 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,400 litres with the second row down. While storage locations were limited, the GLS's hands-free power liftgate and spacious glove compartment were appreciated.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's technology package included an 11.6-inch touchscreen with large icons, though the Starlink infotainment system was slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a Harman Kardon audio system available. The dashboard featured a mix of physical controls and touchscreen functions, with a CD player and USB ports for connectivity.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays with the MBUX infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a navigation system with augmented reality. The standard Burmester surround-sound system provided excellent audio quality, with additional options like a head-up display and rear infotainment screens. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with voice commands activated by saying "Hey Mercedes."

The 2025 Subaru Outback came equipped with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, offering features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The system's lane centring was noted for its side-to-side movement, but blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert worked effectively. The Outback earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS boasted nearly 40 safety and driver assistance systems, including Pre-Safe and Crosswind Assist technologies. While it lacked hands-free highway driver assistance, the GLS's touch-sensing steering wheel and active driver participation ensured a smooth driving experience. The GLS's braking system was noted for its hard stops, but overall, it provided a refined and safe driving experience.