Mercedes-Benz GLC vs Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC was a visual delight, adhering closely to the brand's contemporary design ethos. Its taut lines and muscular shape flowed elegantly from the iconic Mercedes star-pattern grille and standard LED headlights, creating a sense of sophistication and capability. The taller, upright cabin and short overhangs suggested a readiness for multi-terrain adventures, particularly in models without the AMG Line's painted wheel arch liners. The crisp headlights and intricately detailed tail lights ensured the GLC's aesthetic appeal would remain fresh for years. The optional 20-inch AMG five-spoke wheels further enhanced its athletic stance. Inside, the GLC exuded luxury with beautifully designed, contrasting-leather-adorned interior door panels and premium materials. The GLC 350e PHEV test unit featured supple white leather seats with heating and ventilation options, offering excellent adjustability and a commanding view of the road. The haptic steering wheel and climate controls, though made of piano black plastic, were tastefully contrasted by faux carbon fibre, satin-stitched leather, and painted aluminum trim accents.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the model's tradition of evolutionary improvements, maintaining its attractive design. The third-generation Crosstrek featured subtle updates, with the most noticeable change being the frameless grille and curved wing bar that seamlessly connected with the headlights, creating a Cheshire cat-like smile. The black-plastic cladding around the wheel arches included aerodynamic air inlets and outlets, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing road noise. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a thoughtful balance of rugged utility and refined comfort, with a straightforward design prioritizing function over flash. Material quality was consistent, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas and durable plastics where needed. Canadian models featured black leather upholstery, while chrome-trimmed power window switches added an upscale touch. The "Hybrid"-stitched floor mats reminded occupants of the electrified powertrain. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power moonroof, creating an airy atmosphere.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC in Canada came standard with the 4Matic all-wheel drive system. The entry-level models were powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The GLC 300 produced 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the 350e's output was slightly lower at 201 hp and 236 lb-ft. However, the 300's 48-volt mild-hybrid system added 23 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 6.2-second 0-100 km/h time. The 350e's hybrid system, with a 23.3-kilowatt-hour battery and electric motor, delivered a combined output of 313 hp and 406 lb-ft, achieving a 6.7-second 0-100 km/h time. The GLC excelled in ride quality, steering, and handling, absorbing road imperfections well and maintaining composure on highways and winding roads. Braking performance was adequate, with regenerative braking intensity adjustable via steering wheel paddles. The 350e's 87-kilometre electric range was impressive, and the hybrid mode prioritized electricity over internal combustion.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured standard all-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission. The hybrid powertrain combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson/Miller-cycle engine with an 118 hp traction motor, resulting in a total system output of 194 hp. Acceleration was smoother and quicker than the gas-only Crosstrek, though not significantly faster on highways. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators, with one handling engine start/stop and battery charging, while the other assisted the engine and provided regenerative braking. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid achieved 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the estimated 6.5 L/100 km. The hybrid's mechanical AWD system offered better terrain capability than electric AWD systems, aided by Subaru's X-Mode traction management system. The Crosstrek's steering was light but precise, thanks to a revised dual-pinion steering rack. The off-road-oriented Wilderness trim introduced additional body roll due to its suspension setup and all-terrain tires.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered a commanding view of the road, with ample hip, shoulder, and legroom in the front seats, even for taller drivers. However, the rear seats were somewhat tight on leg and headroom. The GLC's boxy shape provided 470 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,530 litres with the rear seats folded. Despite being lower than some competitors, the GLC's cargo area was practical, easily accommodating luggage and everyday items. The split rear seat dropped instantly via buttons, allowing for the transport of larger items like an XL-sized road bike. The GLC 350e averaged 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres in fuel economy, with an estimated 10.2 L/100 km city, 8.5 highway, and 9.4 combined in hybrid mode.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid improved upon previous iterations, offering more horsepower and cargo space. The hybrid's cargo volume measured 527 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,433 litres with the rear row folded. The Crosstrek Hybrid retained a large 63-litre fuel tank, allowing for an impressive range of 829 kilometres between fill-ups. Rear-seat space was generous, with 926 millimetres of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. Up front, storage was limited, with a small tray housing a wireless charging pad and two cupholders. Deep door pockets and a standard-size glove compartment provided additional storage options.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured the third-generation MBUX infotainment system, with haptic controls for steering wheel, climate, and infotainment functions. The 11.9-inch touchscreen required some adjustment for swipe intensity, with occasional sluggish response. Despite these challenges, wireless Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connected seamlessly, and the screen resolution was excellent. The Burmester 3D surround sound system enhanced the audio experience, complemented by customizable ambient lighting.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, though the infotainment system lagged behind competitors. The software was slow, and the screen attracted fingerprints. Many controls were managed via touchscreen buttons, which could be frustrating. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing alternatives to the Starlink software. Physical buttons for volume, tuning, and HVAC controls were appreciated. The Crosstrek Hybrid featured a Harman Kardon stereo and a configurable 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, though the navigation map did not display Google Maps.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC included advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, active parking assistance, and automatic high beams. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, steering assist, lane-change assist, and more. These systems worked smoothly, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS but scored well in NHTSA testing. Subaru's EyeSight ADAS suite was standard, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, and more. The Crosstrek Hybrid lacked a semi-autonomous driving system comparable to competitors.