BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS: Luxurious SUV Showdown
Are you in the market for a premium, full-size luxury SUV that offers an uncompromising blend of style, performance, and comfort? If so, the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS should be at the top of your list. These two German automotive giants have long been rivals, pushing each other to new heights in automotive excellence.
In this battle of the luxury SUV titans, we’ll dive deep into the key areas that matter most to discerning buyers, from exterior design and interior opulence to performance and value proposition. Buckle up and get ready to find out which of these behemoths emerges as the ultimate luxury SUV.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
When it comes to making a statement on the road, both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS know how to turn heads. The X7 sports a bold and muscular look, with a massive kidney grille that commands attention. Its sleek LED headlights and sculpted body lines give it a dynamic, athletic stance.
On the other hand, the GLS exudes a more stately and imposing presence. Its front end features a bold and upright grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights. The GLS’s sleek profile and clean lines lend it an air of understated elegance.
In terms of dimensions, the GLS is slightly larger overall, measuring 205 inches in length, 84.9 inches in width, and 78.1 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 123.4 inches. The X7 is a bit more compact, measuring 203.3 inches long, 87.3 inches wide, and 78.8 inches tall, with a 122.2-inch wheelbase.
Both SUVs have a commanding road presence, but the GLS’s larger footprint might give it a slight edge for those seeking the ultimate in road-dominating presence.
Interior Luxury and Space
Step inside either the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS, and you’ll be enveloped in a world of premium luxury. Both cabins are meticulously crafted with high-end materials, including supple leathers, genuine wood trim, and aluminum accents.
The X7’s interior design is more driver-focused and sporty, with a well-organized layout and intuitive controls. The GLS, on the other hand, exudes a more sumptuous and elegant vibe, with intricate detailing and a sense of airiness.
When it comes to front and second-row space, both SUVs offer generous accommodations. However, the GLS edges out the X7 in second-row legroom, providing an extra four inches of stretch-out space for rear passengers.
Moving to the third row, the GLS again has an advantage in headroom and legroom, making it more comfortable for adult passengers. The X7’s third row is still usable for shorter trips, but taller occupants may feel a bit cramped.
In terms of cargo capacity, the X7 offers slightly more space behind the third row, with 12.8 cubic feet compared to the GLS’s 17.4 cubic feet. However, with the second and third rows folded, the GLS takes the lead with a maximum cargo volume of 84.7 cubic feet, versus 90.4 cubic feet in the X7.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS pack a serious punch. The X7’s 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, aided by a mild hybrid system, produces 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The GLS matches the X7’s horsepower output with its own 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, but falls slightly behind with 369 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of acceleration, the X7 has a slight edge, sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, compared to 5.8 seconds for the GLS. Both SUVs are electronically limited to a top speed of 129 mph.
While straight-line performance is impressive, these luxury SUVs are also designed to deliver a sublime driving experience. Both feature adaptive air suspensions that soak up road imperfections, providing a smooth and composed ride. The X7 and GLS also exhibit surprising agility for their size, thanks to precise steering and well-controlled body motions.
When it comes to driver assistance and safety tech, neither SUV disappoints. Both offer a comprehensive suite of advanced features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more.
Fuel Efficiency Ratings
Despite their size and performance, the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS manage to deliver respectable fuel efficiency ratings. The X7 edges out the GLS with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, compared to 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for the GLS.
The mild hybrid systems in both SUVs contribute to their efficiency by allowing for smoother engine stop-start functionality and providing a slight boost during acceleration.
Pricing and Value Proposition
When it comes to pricing, the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS occupy similar territory. The 2024 X7 xDrive40i starts at $81,900, while the 2024 GLS 450 4Matic has a base price of $87,000.
However, as with most luxury vehicles, the true cost can quickly escalate with the addition of optional packages and features. Our X7 test vehicle had an as-tested price of $103,475, while the GLS came in at $106,820.
At these price points, both SUVs offer a wealth of standard features and luxurious amenities. The X7 might edge out the GLS in terms of value, as it offers more advanced infotainment and audio technology, as well as a few extra convenience features, for a slightly lower price.
The Verdict
After a thorough analysis, it’s clear that both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS are exceptional luxury SUVs that cater to different priorities.
If you prioritize interior space, third-row comfort, and a more traditional luxury aesthetic, the Mercedes-Benz GLS is the way to go. Its larger footprint and more generous interior dimensions make it the better choice for families or those who frequently transport passengers.
On the other hand, the BMW X7 is the superior choice for those who value performance, driving dynamics, and cutting-edge technology. Its slightly more aggressive pricing, advanced infotainment and audio systems, and slightly better fuel efficiency also give it an edge in terms of overall value.
Ultimately, both the X7 and GLS are winners in their own right, catering to different preferences and priorities among luxury SUV buyers. It’s up to you to decide which one best aligns with your needs and desires.
