Subaru Forester vs. Mercedes-Benz GL Feature Comparison

Features Comparison: Subaru Forester vs. Mercedes-Benz GL

Show all  Hide all

Model Year	2009	2009	2009	2009	2011	2011
Model	Forester	Forester	Forester	Forester	GL	GL
Trim	2.5 X	2.5 X L.L. Bean / Limited	2.5 XT	2.5 XT Limited	GL450 / GL350	GL550
Engines (hide)
OHV-v hp lb-ft
turbocharged 2.5L H4 DOHC-4v 224 hp@5600 226 lb-ft@3600
4.7L V8 DOHC-4v 335 hp@6000 339 lb-ft@2700
turbocharged 3.0L V6 Diesel DOHC-4v 210 hp@3400 400 lb-ft@1600
5.5L V8 DOHC-4v 382 hp@6000 391 lb-ft@2800
Transmissions (hide)
5-speed manual
4-speed manually-shiftable automatic
7-speed manually-shiftable automatic
Drivetrains (hide)
AWD
Tires (hide)
215/55HR16 tires
225/55HR17 tires
275/55HR19 tires
275/50HR20 tires
295/40HR21 tires
Audio Systems (hide)
Unbranded, 80W, 4 speakers
Kenwood, 140W, 6 speakers
Unbranded, 80W, 8 speakers
Harman/Kardon, 610W, 12 speakers (with subwoofer)
Accessories (hide)
AC power outletPowers devices with a regular home electrical outlet. Limited wattage: forget about using it to power a blow drier.   [?]
Powers devices with a regular home electrical outlet. Limited wattage: forget about using it to power a blow drier.
Cruise control
First-aid kit
Heated steering wheel
Power flip-out rear side windows
Power front side windowsOften must be ordered with power rear side windows, if these are available.   [?]
Often must be ordered with power rear side windows, if these are available.
Power liftgateLiftgate can be opened and closed using buttons inside the vehicle and on the keyfob.   [?]
Liftgate can be opened and closed using buttons inside the vehicle and on the keyfob.
Power locks
Power rear side windows
Proximity keyEnter and start the vehicle without removing the key from your pocket.   [?]
Enter and start the vehicle without removing the key from your pocket.
Remote keyless entryUnlock and lock the car using buttons on the keyfob.   [?]
Unlock and lock the car using buttons on the keyfob.
Remote startStart the car using a button on the keyfob. Interior can be a comfortable temperature as soon as you get in.   [?]
Start the car using a button on the keyfob. Interior can be a comfortable temperature as soon as you get in.
Remote window/roof operationOperate the power windows, sunroof, and/or convertible roof using buttons on the keyfob.   [?]
Operate the power windows, sunroof, and/or convertible roof using buttons on the keyfob.
Tilt steering wheel, manual
Tilt/telescoping steering wheel, manual
Tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power
Universal garage door openerHomelink.   [?]
Homelink.
Brakes, Airbags, and Other Safety (hide)
4-wheel disc brakesRear disc brakes.   [?]
Rear disc brakes.
Active or whiplash-reducing head restraints, front seatsIf active, automatically move forward when the vehicle is rear-ended. Note: becoming less common.   [?]
If active, automatically move forward when the vehicle is rear-ended. Note: becoming less common.
AlarmOnly listed when pricing a single model because insufficient data for all cars.   [?]
Only listed when pricing a single model because insufficient data for all cars.
Antilock brakes (ABS)Automatically pulse the brakes in hard stops to prevent wheels from locking up, making it possible to brake and steer at the same time.   [?]
Automatically pulse the brakes in hard stops to prevent wheels from locking up, making it possible to brake and steer at the same time.
Blind spot warning systemMirror-mounted lights indicate when another vehicle is in a blind spot.   [?]
Mirror-mounted lights indicate when another vehicle is in a blind spot.
Brake assistWhen a panic stop is sensed, fully applies the brakes.   [?]
When a panic stop is sensed, fully applies the brakes.
Brake- or yaw-sensor-initiated collision preparation systemPrepares seat belts for use when heavy braking or the yaw sensor suggests an imminent collision. Might also prep the brakes or roll up the windows.   [?]
Prepares seat belts for use when heavy braking or the yaw sensor suggests an imminent collision. Might also prep the brakes or roll up the windows.
Front airbagsMandatory, in all cars.   [?]
Mandatory, in all cars.
Hill descent controlSelectively applies the brakes to maintain a slow, steady descent on off-road downhill slopes.   [?]
Selectively applies the brakes to maintain a slow, steady descent on off-road downhill slopes.
Hill start assistApplies the brakes to hold the vehicle in place on an incline. Incomplete data, so only displayed when pricing a single vehicle.   [?]
Applies the brakes to hold the vehicle in place on an incline. Incomplete data, so only displayed when pricing a single vehicle.
Knee airbag, driver
Obstacle detection, frontBeeps signal distance to object in front of vehicle. Parking aid.   [?]
Beeps signal distance to object in front of vehicle. Parking aid.
Obstacle detection, rearBeeps signal distance to object behind vehicle. Parking aid.   [?]
Beeps signal distance to object behind vehicle. Parking aid.
Rear side airbagsTorso-level second row airbags, usually contained in the rear door. Some also protect the head, but not as well as side curtain airbags.   [?]
Torso-level second row airbags, usually contained in the rear door. Some also protect the head, but not as well as side curtain airbags.
Rearview cameraRearview camera connected to display screen on the instrument panel. Often requires navigation system.   [?]
Rearview camera connected to display screen on the instrument panel. Often requires navigation system.
Rollover sensorDeploys extended duration side curtain airbags when the vehicle rolls over. Usually included on tall vehicles. Rare on others.   [?]
Deploys extended duration side curtain airbags when the vehicle rolls over. Usually included on tall vehicles. Rare on others.
Side curtain airbagsAirbags contained just above the window level. Except in cars without a rear seat usually cover first and second row.   [?]
Airbags contained just above the window level. Except in cars without a rear seat usually cover first and second row.
Side curtain airbags, three rowsAirbags contained just above the window level. Cover all three rows.   [?]
Airbags contained just above the window level. Cover all three rows.
Stability controlSelectively applies the brakes to prevent excessive understeer or oversteer (spinning).   [?]
Selectively applies the brakes to prevent excessive understeer or oversteer (spinning).
Temporary spare tire
Tire-pressure monitorTwo types: a warning light when a tire is low on air and a pressure readout for each tire.   [?]
Two types: a warning light when a tire is low on air and a pressure readout for each tire.
Tires, run-flatCan be driven deflated for about 50 miles. Usually harm ride quality. Cars with these often have no spare tire.   [?]
Can be driven deflated for about 50 miles. Usually harm ride quality. Cars with these often have no spare tire.
Traction controlWhen a drive wheel slips, it is braked and/or engine power is reduced, restoring traction.   [?]
When a drive wheel slips, it is braked and/or engine power is reduced, restoring traction.
Trailer sway controlAutomatically applies a front brake to counteract sway induced by a trailer.   [?]
Automatically applies a front brake to counteract sway induced by a trailer.
Cargo Management (hide)
Cargo area partition netNet extending from the floor to the ceiling to prevent cargo from flying into the passenger area during sudden stops.   [?]
Net extending from the floor to the ceiling to prevent cargo from flying into the passenger area during sudden stops.
Cargo cover
Cargo net
Cargo organizerAbove floor system for organizing cargo.   [?]
Above floor system for organizing cargo.
Cargo tray
Class II trailer hitchHitch rated for up to 3,500 pounds. Capacity of the vehicle could be lower.   [?]
Hitch rated for up to 3,500 pounds. Capacity of the vehicle could be lower.
Class IV trailer hitchHitch rated for up to 10,000 pounds. Capacity of the vehicle could be lower.   [?]
Hitch rated for up to 10,000 pounds. Capacity of the vehicle could be lower.
Console with shifter
Console without shifter
Overhead sunglass holderUsually part of an overhead console.   [?]
Usually part of an overhead console.
Roof rack crossbarsRequires roof rails. Together constitute a roof rack.   [?]
Requires roof rails. Together constitute a roof rack.
Roof railsNo crossbars.   [?]
No crossbars.
Storage beneath cargo floorLarge storage area beneath the load floor, often compartmentalized.   [?]
Large storage area beneath the load floor, often compartmentalized.
Trailering equipment (7 wire)Includes seven-wire harness, necessary for larger trailers.   [?]
Includes seven-wire harness, necessary for larger trailers.
Climate Control (hide)
Air conditioning
Automatic climate control, frontMaintains set temperature in front row. Requires air conditioning and does not include its value.   [?]
Maintains set temperature in front row. Requires air conditioning and does not include its value.
Dual-zone climate controlTemperature can be separately set for left and right sides of the passenger compartment. Requires air conditioning and does not include its value.   [?]
Temperature can be separately set for left and right sides of the passenger compartment. Requires air conditioning and does not include its value.
Heated windshield washer nozzles
Interior air filterFilters exterior air before it enters the passenger compartment. No default value because most cars have them, even in cases where they're not in the official list of features.   [?]
Filters exterior air before it enters the passenger compartment. No default value because most cars have them, even in cases where they're not in the official list of features.
Rain-sensing wipersWipers automatically turn on and adjust their speed based on input from a rain sensor.   [?]
Wipers automatically turn on and adjust their speed based on input from a rain sensor.
Rear air ventsVents at aft end of center console, in B-pillars, and/or in ceiling.   [?]
Vents at aft end of center console, in B-pillars, and/or in ceiling.
Rear air vents with automatic controlsMaintains set temperature in rear passenger area by providing heated or cooled air through vents in the center console, B-pillars, and/or ceiling. Replaces and includes value of rear air vents with manual controls.   [?]
Maintains set temperature in rear passenger area by providing heated or cooled air through vents in the center console, B-pillars, and/or ceiling. Replaces and includes value of rear air vents with manual controls.
Rear defrost
Rear heat ductsDucts under front seats direct heated air to the second row.   [?]
Ducts under front seats direct heated air to the second row.
Rear HVAC unitA second evaporator provides cool air to rear vents. Does not include the value of these vents. Includes rear heater.   [?]
A second evaporator provides cool air to rear vents. Does not include the value of these vents. Includes rear heater.
Rear wiper
Residual heatProvides heat for an extended period of time after the engine has been cut off.   [?]
Provides heat for an extended period of time after the engine has been cut off.
Variable intermittent wipersTime between wipes can be precisely adjusted.   [?]
Time between wipes can be precisely adjusted.
Wiper de-icerHeating elements defrost area where front wipers rest.   [?]
Heating elements defrost area where front wipers rest.
Engine / Motor (hide)
CA/NE emissions (extra-cost)Only included if California/Northeast emissions equipment costs extra.   [?]
Only included if California/Northeast emissions equipment costs extra.
Oil coolerOnly listed if not standard on all trims. No value because no way to compare across models.   [?]
Only listed if not standard on all trims. No value because no way to compare across models.
Exterior (hide)
Additional chrome trimOnly listed if not standard on all trims. No value because no way to compare across models.   [?]
Only listed if not standard on all trims. No value because no way to compare across models.
Bodyside moldingsMoldings on the bodysides, to protect against door dings in parking lots.   [?]
Moldings on the bodysides, to protect against door dings in parking lots.
Bright-finished exhaust tip(s)Increasingly often these are not actually connected to the exhaust.   [?]
Increasingly often these are not actually connected to the exhaust.
Bright-finished mirror housings (optional)Chrome or aluminum mirrors. Only listed if optional or not standard on the base trim.   [?]
Chrome or aluminum mirrors. Only listed if optional or not standard on the base trim.
Deep-tinted rear windows
Even more chromeOnly listed if not standard on all trims. No value because no way to compare across models.   [?]
Only listed if not standard on all trims. No value because no way to compare across models.
Glass roof panel(s)One or more glass panels in the roof that cannot be opened or removed.   [?]
One or more glass panels in the roof that cannot be opened or removed.
Heat-reflective glassMirrored glass relects sun and thus heat away from the interior.   [?]
Mirrored glass relects sun and thus heat away from the interior.
Hood scoopScoop on the hood, often not functional and purely decorative.   [?]
Scoop on the hood, often not functional and purely decorative.
Metallic paint (extra cost)
Mud guardsFlaps mounted behind two to four wheels, to protect the body from mud and rocks.   [?]
Flaps mounted behind two to four wheels, to protect the body from mud and rocks.
Rear bumper protector
Rear spoilerCan be small lip spoiler or a larger raised spoiler.   [?]
Can be small lip spoiler or a larger raised spoiler.
Running boards
Skid platesPrevent underbody damage when off-roading.   [?]
Prevent underbody damage when off-roading.
Sunroof
Sunroof, largeReplaces and includes value of smaller sunroofs.   [?]
Replaces and includes value of smaller sunroofs.
Wheel-lip moldingsExtensions to the wheel opening, both decorative and protective.   [?]
Extensions to the wheel opening, both decorative and protective.
Gas Guzzler Tax (hide)
-1800
Infotainment (hide)
A/V input jacksJacks for a video camera, game console, or other device with A/V output.   [?]
Jacks for a video camera, game console, or other device with A/V output.
Audio controls on steering wheel
Aux inputJack for an iPod or similar device. No value because of incomplete data. Will soon be standard on nearly every car.   [?]
Jack for an iPod or similar device. No value because of incomplete data. Will soon be standard on nearly every car.
Bluetooth cell phone linkEnables hands-free communication by wirelessly connecting a cell phone to a microphone and the vehicle's stereo speakers.   [?]
Enables hands-free communication by wirelessly connecting a cell phone to a microphone and the vehicle's stereo speakers.
CD changer, in-dashIncludes CD player.   [?]
Includes CD player.
CD player
DVD-Audio-compatible playerAudio system capable of playing DVD-Audio discs.   [?]
Audio system capable of playing DVD-Audio discs.
DVD-compatible playerAudio system capable of playing DVDs on a front-row screen. Inoperative when the vehicle is moving. No value because of incomplete data.   [?]
Audio system capable of playing DVDs on a front-row screen. Inoperative when the vehicle is moving. No value because of incomplete data.
Entertainment system with dual headrest screensA DVD player and two front headrest-mounted screens.   [?]
A DVD player and two front headrest-mounted screens.
HD radioHigh-definition radio, which broadcasts a digital signal. Free, no subscription fees.   [?]
High-definition radio, which broadcasts a digital signal. Free, no subscription fees.
iPod integrationIntegrates an iPod with the vehicle's controls and speakers. Usually included if there is a USB port, but can also rely on a proprietary port.   [?]
Integrates an iPod with the vehicle's controls and speakers. Usually included if there is a USB port, but can also rely on a proprietary port.
Media driveBuilt-in drive with at least 10 GB of storage for MP3 and other audio files.   [?]
Built-in drive with at least 10 GB of storage for MP3 and other audio files.
MP3-compatible playerAudio system capable of playing discs with MP3 files.   [?]
Audio system capable of playing discs with MP3 files.
Navigation systemScreen-based navigation system.   [?]
Screen-based navigation system.
Satellite radioXM or Sirius. Includes a subscription for three to six months, after which monthly fees apply.   [?]
XM or Sirius. Includes a subscription for three to six months, after which monthly fees apply.
SD Card slotSD, CF, PCMCIA, or other digital media reader.   [?]
SD, CF, PCMCIA, or other digital media reader.
Subwoofer (add on)No value because no way to compare across models.   [?]
No value because no way to compare across models.
Surround sound
Telematics service, such as OnStarIn-vehicle security, communications, and diagnostics system. For 2011 and newer cars often includes a remote app. Monthly fee after the first 1-12 months.   [?]
In-vehicle security, communications, and diagnostics system. For 2011 and newer cars often includes a remote app. Monthly fee after the first 1-12 months.
Traffic informationInformation about traffic conditions. Monthly fee after first 3-12 months.   [?]
Information about traffic conditions. Monthly fee after first 3-12 months.
Voice control for nav and audioSometimes also includes voice control over climate control system.   [?]
Sometimes also includes voice control over climate control system.
Weatherband radioIncludes frequencies for weather channels. Only listed when pricing a single model because incomplete data for all model.   [?]
Includes frequencies for weather channels. Only listed when pricing a single model because incomplete data for all model.
Instruments, Lights, and Mirrors (hide)
Analog clock
Auto-dimming driver-side mirrorDriver-side exterior mirror automatically dims when hit by headlights of following vehicle.   [?]
Driver-side exterior mirror automatically dims when hit by headlights of following vehicle.
Auto-dimming rearview mirrorInterior rearview mirror automatically dims when hit by headlights of following vehicle.   [?]
Interior rearview mirror automatically dims when hit by headlights of following vehicle.
Automatic headlightsHeadlights automatically turn on and off. Includes value of automatic-off headlights.   [?]
Headlights automatically turn on and off. Includes value of automatic-off headlights.
Automatic-off headlightsHeadlights automatically turn off.   [?]
Headlights automatically turn off.
CompassWe haven't given this feature a value because it's hard to tell which cars have it.   [?]
We haven't given this feature a value because it's hard to tell which cars have it.
Cornering lightsLights illuminate area just ahead and to the side of the vehicle when the turn signals are used or the steering wheel is turned.   [?]
Lights illuminate area just ahead and to the side of the vehicle when the turn signals are used or the steering wheel is turned.
Fog light, rearMake it easier for following vehicles to see the vehicle in fog.   [?]
Make it easier for following vehicles to see the vehicle in fog.
Fog lightsLight wide area close in front of the vehicle.   [?]
Light wide area close in front of the vehicle.
Headlight washers
Heated mirrorsClears ice and fog from mirrors.   [?]
Clears ice and fog from mirrors.
Illuminated visor mirror, driverIncludes value of non-illuminated vanity mirror.   [?]
Includes value of non-illuminated vanity mirror.
Illuminated visor mirror, passengerIncludes value of non-illuminated vanity mirror.   [?]
Includes value of non-illuminated vanity mirror.
Interior ambient lightingLEDs cast a soft glow over and/or highlight parts of the interior.   [?]
LEDs cast a soft glow over and/or highlight parts of the interior.
Map lightsFront row reading lights.   [?]
Front row reading lights.
Mirror tilt-down in reverseOne or both exterior mirrors tilt down when the transmission is in reverse, to provide view of the curb.   [?]
One or both exterior mirrors tilt down when the transmission is in reverse, to provide view of the curb.
Outside temperature display
Perimeter approach lightingArea around the vehicle is illuminated when the vehicle is remotely unlocked.   [?]
Area around the vehicle is illuminated when the vehicle is remotely unlocked.
Power mirrorsIncludes value of manual remote mirrors.   [?]
Includes value of manual remote mirrors.
Power-folding mirrorsMirrors fold and unfold with the touch of a button inside the vehicle. Good for narrow roads and parking lots.   [?]
Mirrors fold and unfold with the touch of a button inside the vehicle. Good for narrow roads and parking lots.
Steering-linked headlightsHeadlights swivel when steering wheel is turned.   [?]
Headlights swivel when steering wheel is turned.
TachometerReports engine speed.   [?]
Reports engine speed.
Trip computerReports average fuel economy, and perhaps also instantaneous fuel economy, distance to empty, average speed, and other stats.   [?]
Reports average fuel economy, and perhaps also instantaneous fuel economy, distance to empty, average speed, and other stats.
Turn signals on or near mirrors
Visor mirror, driver
Visor mirror, passenger
Xenon HID headlightsProvide a brighter, whiter light than halogen headlights.   [?]
Provide a brighter, whiter light than halogen headlights.
Seats and Interior Trim (hide)
Front buckets
Second-row 2-section 3-person split bench
Third-row 2-section 2-person split bench
All-weather floor matsAll-weather floormats.   [?]
All-weather floormats.
Center armrest(s), front row
Center armrest(s), second row
Cooled or ventilated front seats
Door sill trim plates
Floor mats
Foldaway tray table, second rowErects between the seats; in vans stows against a seat to open up walk through; in sedans stows in a console.   [?]
Erects between the seats; in vans stows against a seat to open up walk through; in sedans stows in a console.
Folding second row seatsSeat folds to enlarge cargo area. Unless the seat is also removable, it usually folds flat or nearly flat.   [?]
Seat folds to enlarge cargo area. Unless the seat is also removable, it usually folds flat or nearly flat.
Heated front seats
Heated second row seats
Illuminated door sill trim plates
Leather door panel trim
Leather seating surfacesSeating surfaces are trimmed in leather; other upholstery tends to be leatherette.   [?]
Seating surfaces are trimmed in leather; other upholstery tends to be leatherette.
Leather seating surfaces, third-row seats
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Manual height adjuster, driver seat
Manual recliner, second row seats
Memory system, driver seat
Memory system, passenger seat
Metal pedals
Power 4-way lumbar adjuster, driver seatLower back support power-adjustable vertically as well as in and out.   [?]
Lower back support power-adjustable vertically as well as in and out.
Power 4-way lumbar adjuster, passenger seatLower back support power-adjustable vertically as well as in and out.   [?]
Lower back support power-adjustable vertically as well as in and out.
Power fore-aft adjuster, driver seat
Power fore-aft adjuster, passenger seat
Power headrest height adjuster, driver seat
Power headrest height adjuster, passenger seat
Power height adjuster, driver seat
Power height adjuster, passenger seat
Power lumbar adjuster, driver seatPower-adjustable lower back support.   [?]
Power-adjustable lower back support.
Power recliner, driver seat
Power recliner, passenger seat
Power seatback bolsters, driver seatPower adjustable bolsters on the seatback, to provide lateral support in hard turns.   [?]
Power adjustable bolsters on the seatback, to provide lateral support in hard turns.
Power seatback bolsters, passenger seatPower adjustable bolsters on the seatback, to provide lateral support in hard turns.   [?]
Power adjustable bolsters on the seatback, to provide lateral support in hard turns.
Power thigh support length adjuster, driver seatPower-adjustable cushion length; provides better support for long legs.   [?]
Power-adjustable cushion length; provides better support for long legs.
Power thigh support length adjuster, passenger seatPower-adjustable cushion length; provides better support for long legs.   [?]
Power-adjustable cushion length; provides better support for long legs.
Power tilt adjuster, driver seatPower tilting seat cushion; can take the form of a second height adjustment.   [?]
Power tilting seat cushion; can take the form of a second height adjustment.
Power tilt adjuster, passenger seatPower tilting seat cushion; can take the form of a second height adjustment.   [?]
Power tilting seat cushion; can take the form of a second height adjustment.
Power-folding third row seatsSeat powers flat to enlarge cargo area. Also powers back upright. Replaces manual folding seat, and includes the value of that feature.   [?]
Seat powers flat to enlarge cargo area. Also powers back upright. Replaces manual folding seat, and includes the value of that feature.
Synthetic leather seating surfacesA.k.a vinyl, leatherette, MB-Tex, NuLuxe.   [?]
A.k.a vinyl, leatherette, MB-Tex, NuLuxe.
Upgraded leather upholsteryNo additional value over leather upholstery because no way to standardize across all models.   [?]
No additional value over leather upholstery because no way to standardize across all models.
Upholstered instrument panel
Wood trimReal wood trim on instrument panel, door panels, and/or center console.   [?]
Real wood trim on instrument panel, door panels, and/or center console.
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheelReal wood comprises part of the steering wheel rim.   [?]
Real wood comprises part of the steering wheel rim.
Suspension, Wheels, and Tires (hide)
Adaptive dampers - electricalShocks that electrically adjust their firmness based on sensor readings of the road surface. The driver might also be able to select a \"sport\" setting.   [?]
Shocks that electrically adjust their firmness based on sensor readings of the road surface. The driver might also be able to select a \"sport\" setting.
Air suspension, auto-leveling and height adjustableAir springs automatically level the vehicle and enable manual adjustment of ride height.   [?]
Air springs automatically level the vehicle and enable manual adjustment of ride height.
Alloy wheels
Wheel locksLug nuts that can only be removed using a special key. Prevents theft of wheels.   [?]
Lug nuts that can only be removed using a special key. Prevents theft of wheels.
Transmission (hide)
Short-throw shifter (optional)Only listed if not standard on all trims. No value because no way to compare across models.   [?]
Only listed if not standard on all trims. No value because no way to compare across models.
Steering-wheel-mounted transmission controlsPaddles or buttons that can be used to manually shift the transmission. Only listed when optional or not always included with an automatic transmission.   [?]
Paddles or buttons that can be used to manually shift the transmission. Only listed when optional or not always included with an automatic transmission.

Return to top

Option Package Contents

What Our Members Are Saying about the Available Features of the 2009 Subaru Forester

What Our Members Are Saying about the Available Features of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL

None of our members have yet commented on the available features of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL.

Be the first!