In the world of luxury vehicles, few segments are as hotly contested as the full-size SUV market. With families seeking the ultimate blend of opulence, performance, and practicality, automakers have pulled out all the stops to deliver flagship models that cater to every whim. Among the fiercest rivals in this arena are the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS – two titans of the luxury SUV world. But which one reigns supreme? The answer, as you might expect, is not a simple one.
The BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS are both exceptional luxury SUVs that offer a perfect blend of style, performance, and practicality. While the X7 may appeal to buyers seeking a sportier driving experience and cutting-edge tech features, the GLS might be the better choice for those who prioritize interior space, comfort, and a more traditional luxury experience.
When choosing between two top SUVs, it’s crucial to consider key aspects like design, comfort, performance, safety, and value. This comparison breaks down the key differences to help you decide which one best fits your needs and priorities.
Exterior Design and Styling: Bold Presence on the Road
When it comes to making a statement on the road, both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS exude a commanding presence. However, their design philosophies differ, catering to distinct tastes and preferences.
The BMW X7 boasts a bold and muscular stance, with its signature kidney grille taking center stage. Its sleek bodylines and sculpted surfaces give it a sporty and athletic appearance, while the available 22-inch alloy wheels further enhance its powerful road presence.
On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz GLS embraces a more traditional luxury aesthetic. Its design is characterized by elegant lines, a upright grille, and a sophisticated silhouette. While not as overtly aggressive as the X7, the GLS exudes a sense of refinement and prestige that is quintessentially Mercedes-Benz.
Both SUVs feature sleek LED lighting elements that not only enhance visibility but also add to their overall visual appeal. The X7’s adaptive LED headlights with BMW’s signature halo ring design are a standout feature, while the GLS’s multi-beam LED headlights with Ultrarange high-beam assistance offer unparalleled illumination.
Interior Luxury and Comfort: Redefining Opulence
Step inside these luxury SUVs, and you’ll be greeted by an oasis of comfort and sophistication. Both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS have spared no expense in creating cabins that reflect the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship.
The X7’s interior is a masterclass in contemporary luxury, with a focus on premium materials and cutting-edge technology. The available Glass Controls and BMW Curved Display add a touch of modernity, while the optional Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof creates a truly immersive ambiance.
In contrast, the GLS’s cabin exudes a more traditional sense of luxury, with high-end materials like Nappa leather, open-pore wood trim, and metallic accents. The available Energizing Comfort Control system takes pampering to new heights, adjusting various elements like lighting, climate, and massage functions to create a tailored wellness experience.
Both SUVs offer ample seating configurations, including a spacious third row that can accommodate adults comfortably. However, the GLS edges out the X7 in terms of overall interior space, boasting slightly more legroom and headroom in the second and third rows.
Performance and Powertrain Options: Power Meets Efficiency
Under the hood, these luxury SUVs pack a serious punch, ensuring that performance is never compromised in the pursuit of opulence.
The BMW X7 offers a range of potent powertrains, including a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with mild-hybrid assistance, producing 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking even more exhilaration, the X7 M60i variant packs a 523-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that can propel this behemoth from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds.
Not to be outdone, the Mercedes-Benz GLS also boasts an impressive array of powerplants. The base GLS 450 4MATIC features a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. For true performance enthusiasts, the GLS 63 AMG variant unleashes a hand-built 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that churns out a staggering 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.
Both SUVs are equipped with advanced all-wheel-drive systems and smooth-shifting automatic transmissions, ensuring optimal traction and seamless power delivery in all driving conditions.
Safety and Driver Assistance Technologies: Peace of Mind on the Road
When it comes to safety, the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS leave no stone unturned. Both SUVs are equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and driver assistance technologies, designed to provide peace of mind and enhanced protection for you and your passengers.
The X7 comes standard with BMW’s Active Driving Assistant, which includes features like frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. Additionally, optional features like the Parking Assistant Plus and Driving Assistant Professional further elevate the safety and convenience quotient.
Similarly, the GLS boasts an impressive array of safety systems, including Mercedes-Benz’s Attention Assist, Active Brake Assist, and Blind Spot Assist. The available Driver Assistance Package Plus takes things a step further, adding features like Active Lane Change Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, and Active Speed Limit Assist.
Both SUVs have been designed with robust body structures and advanced crumple zones, ensuring maximum protection in the event of a collision. Additionally, their suite of airbags and pre-tensioning seatbelts provide an extra layer of safety for all occupants.
Pricing and Value Proposition: Luxury Comes at a Cost
As with any premium vehicle, the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS command a hefty price tag. However, the value proposition offered by these luxury SUVs is undeniable.
The BMW X7 starts at around $77,900 for the base xDrive40i model, while the top-of-the-line M60i variant can reach upwards of $103,100. As you climb the trim ladder, features like the Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof, Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, and Executive Package add to the overall cost.
On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4MATIC carries a starting price of $79,900, while the high-performance GLS 63 AMG can easily surpass $132,000 when fully loaded. Options like the Energizing Air Control Plus, Acoustic Comfort Package, and Premium Package further enhance the luxury experience, but also contribute to the bottom line.
It’s worth noting that both the X7 and GLS are expected to hold their value well on the used market, thanks to their prestigious brands and high demand for luxury SUVs.
The Verdict: Which Luxury SUV Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the decision between the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS boils down to personal preferences and priorities. Both SUVs offer a exceptional blend of luxury, performance, and practicality, but they cater to slightly different tastes.
If you’re seeking a luxury SUV with a more dynamic and sporty driving experience, coupled with cutting-edge technology and a bold design language, the BMW X7 might be the perfect choice. Its potent powertrains, engaging handling, and tech-forward interior make it a compelling option for those who value performance and modernity.
On the other hand, if you prioritize interior space, comfort, and a more traditional luxury experience, the Mercedes-Benz GLS could be the better fit. Its spacious cabin, smooth ride quality, and refined appointments cater to those who seek the ultimate in opulence and pampering.
Regardless of your choice, both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS represent the pinnacle of luxury SUV engineering. They offer a level of sophistication, performance, and practicality that few other vehicles can match, ensuring that every journey is truly extraordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which SUV is more spacious and practical for family hauling?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS takes the lead in terms of overall interior space and practicality. With its larger dimensions and more generous second and third-row legroom, the GLS is better suited for families who frequently transport multiple passengers or need extra cargo space.
2. Which SUV offers a smoother and more comfortable ride?
Both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS offer excellent ride quality, thanks to their advanced air suspension systems. However, the GLS’s E-Active Body Control system, which counteracts body roll and pitch, gives it a slight edge in terms of overall ride comfort, especially on rough terrain.
3. Which SUV has better off-road capabilities?
While neither the X7 nor the GLS are designed as dedicated off-road vehicles, the Mercedes-Benz GLS has a slight advantage when it comes to tackling light off-road conditions. Its optional Off-Road Engineering Package, which includes a low-range transfer case and underbody protection, enhances its capability on unpaved surfaces.
4. Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
The BMW X7 holds a slight advantage in terms of fuel efficiency. Its turbocharged inline-six engine with mild-hybrid assistance returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, while the Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4MATIC achieves 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
5. Which SUV has a better infotainment system and tech features?
Both the X7 and GLS offer excellent infotainment systems, but the BMW’s iDrive 7.0 with the optional Curved Display arguably edges out the GLS’s MBUX system in terms of user experience and cutting-edge technology.
6. Which SUV offers more customization options and personalization?
Mercedes-Benz has long been known for its extensive customization options, and the GLS is no exception. With a wide range of interior trim choices, exterior color options, and bespoke personalization packages, the GLS allows buyers to create a truly unique and tailored luxury experience.
