Mercedes-Benz GLB vs Subaru Trailseeker
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mercedes-Benz GLB starts from $63,900 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Trailseeker opens at $67,990. That makes the Mercedes-Benz GLB the more affordable entry point by $4,090.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $70,290 and $74,789 respectively.
The Subaru Trailseeker qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Mercedes-Benz GLB, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mercedes-Benz GLB and Subaru Trailseeker hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mercedes-Benz GLB packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Subaru Trailseeker.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Mercedes-Benz GLB and 8 in the Subaru Trailseeker.
Feature Showdown
The Mercedes-Benz GLB features a 10.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.3-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Trailseeker gets a 14-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz GLB stands out with power tailgate that you will not find on the Subaru Trailseeker. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz GLB uses a Petrol producing 120kW and 250Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.4 seconds.
The Subaru Trailseeker responds with a Dual Electric Motor making 280kW and 536Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds.
The Subaru Trailseeker has the clear power advantage at 280kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Subaru Trailseeker is 4.9s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz GLB measures 4,634mm long on a 2,829mm wheelbase, 211mm shorter than the Subaru Trailseeker at 4,845mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Subaru Trailseeker generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 570L in the Mercedes-Benz GLB and 609L in the Subaru Trailseeker, giving the Subaru Trailseeker a 39L advantage. The Mercedes-Benz GLB seats 7 vs 5.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m to 11.6m
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz GLB) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Trailseeker). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz GLB if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Trailseeker if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Subaru Trailseeker takes 3 of 4 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Subaru Trailseeker has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mercedes-Benz GLB and Subaru Trailseeker?
The Mercedes-Benz GLB is the cheapest at $63,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Subaru Trailseeker by $4,090.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mercedes-Benz GLB uses the least fuel at 6.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mercedes-Benz GLB and Subaru Trailseeker all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Subaru Trailseeker has the largest boot at 609L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mercedes-Benz GLB has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,600kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru Trailseeker makes the most power at 280kW. The Subaru Trailseeker is quickest to 100km/h in 4.5s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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