BMW X7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS
The BMW X7 offers sharper handling and a more driver-focused experience with up to 523 hp, while the Mercedes-Benz GLS prioritizes luxury comfort with superior interior craftsmanship and a slightly larger cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet. Both are three-row luxury SUVs competing at the $84,000–$110,000 price range.
BMW X7
Three-row luxury SUV with sport-oriented handling and up to 523 hp turbocharged engine.
Drivers who want a sporty luxury SUV with engaging dynamics and don't compromise on performance for comfort
Mercedes-Benz GLS
Three-row luxury SUV emphasizing supreme comfort, premium materials, and spacious cabin with 516 hp AMG engine option.
Luxury-focused buyers who prioritize refinement, interior materials, and passenger comfort over sportiness
Short Answer
The BMW X7 offers sharper handling and a more driver-focused experience with up to 523 hp, while the Mercedes-Benz GLS prioritizes luxury comfort with superior interior craftsmanship and a slightly larger cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet. Both are three-row luxury SUVs competing at the $84,000–$110,000 price range.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose the BMW X7 if you prioritize dynamic handling, stronger acceleration, and a sportier driving experience with competitive fuel economy. Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLS if you value ultra-premium interior finishes, more spacious third-row seating, and a focus on passenger comfort and prestige over sportiness.
Was this verdict helpful?
Choose BMW X7 if
Drivers who want a sporty luxury SUV with engaging dynamics and don't compromise on performance for comfort
Choose Mercedes-Benz GLS if
Luxury-focused buyers who prioritize refinement, interior materials, and passenger comfort over sportiness
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Key Differences at a Glance
Key Facts & Figures
15 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | BMW X7 | Mercedes-Benz GLS | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Power Output(hp) | 335 hp | 362 hp | -7% |
| Top-Tier Engine Power Output(hp) | 503 hp (M60i xDrive) | 516 hp (AMG GLS53) | -3% |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration (M60i/GLS53)(seconds) | 5.3 seconds | 5.5 seconds | -4% |
| Maximum Cargo Space (Seats Folded)(cubic feet) | 96.7 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft | +15% |
| Standard Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 12.3 inches | 12.3 inches (curved OLED option: 11.6 inches) | +6% |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base Model)(mpg) | 22 mpg | 23 mpg | -4% |
| Base Model Starting Price (2024)(USD) | $86,850 | $80,800 | +7% |
| Engine Horsepower (Top Variant)(hp) | 523 hp | 516 hp | +1% |
| 0-60 Acceleration(seconds) | 4.6 sec | 4.9 sec | -6% |
| Maximum Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 84.0 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy(mpg) | 20 mpg | 19 mpg | +5% |
| Third-Row Legroom(inches) | 28.2 in | 30.5 in | -8% |
| Starting Price (Base Model)(USD) | $84,200 | $87,900 | -4% |
| Towing Capacity(lbs) | 7,500 lbs | 7,500 lbs | |
| Infotainment System Response Time(milliseconds) | 220 ms | 280 ms | -21% |
Sourced from publicly available data · Jun 2026
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
BMW X7
523 hp (M60i xDrive)🏆
Mercedes-Benz GLS
516 hp (AMG GLS 53)
BMW X7
4.6 sec🏆
Mercedes-Benz GLS
4.9 sec
BMW X7
84.0
Mercedes-Benz GLS
84.3🏆
BMW X7
20 mpg🏆
Mercedes-Benz GLS
19 mpg
BMW X7
High-quality plastics and leather, less lavish trim
Mercedes-Benz GLS
MB-Tex leather, open-pore wood, premium stone accents🏆
BMW X7
28.2
Mercedes-Benz GLS
30.5🏆
BMW X7
4 years / 50,000 miles
Mercedes-Benz GLS
4 years / 50,000 miles
Full Comparison
| Attribute | BMW X7 | Mercedes-Benz GLS |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Power Output(hp) | 335 hp | 362 hp |
| Top-Tier Engine Power Output(hp) | 503 hp (M60i xDrive) | 516 hp (AMG GLS53) |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration (M60i/GLS53)(seconds) | 5.3 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Engine Horsepower (Top Variant)(hp) | 523 hp | 516 hp |
| 0-60 Acceleration(seconds) | 4.6 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum Cargo Space (Seats Folded)(cubic feet) | 96.7 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft |
| Standard Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 12.3 inches | 12.3 inches (curved OLED option: 11.6 inches) |
| Infotainment System Response Time(milliseconds) | 220 ms | 280 ms |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base Model)(mpg) | 22 mpg | 23 mpg |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy(mpg) | 20 mpg | 19 mpg |
| Base Model Starting Price (2024)(USD) | $86,850 | $80,800 |
| Maximum Cargo Space(cubic feet) | 84.0 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft |
| Third-Row Legroom(inches) | 28.2 in | 30.5 in |
| Starting Price (Base Model)(USD) | $84,200 | $87,900 |
| Towing Capacity(lbs) | 7,500 lbs | 7,500 lbs |
BMW X7Mercedes-Benz GLSVisual Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of numeric attributes
Pros & Cons
10 pros·6 cons across both
BMW X7
Pros
- 523 hp M60i engine with 4.6-sec 0-60 acceleration
- Sharper handling and more responsive steering than GLS
- iDrive 8 infotainment with gesture control and improved responsiveness
- 20 mpg combined fuel economy (vs 19 mpg GLS)
- Iconic grille design and distinctive styling
Cons
- Interior materials feel less opulent than GLS (more plastic trim)
- Third-row legroom limited at 28.2 inches for passengers over 5'10
- Panoramic sunroof reduces headroom slightly in front row
Mercedes-Benz GLS
Pros
- 516 hp AMG GLS 53 engine with optional hybrid powertrain
- 84.3 cubic feet cargo space, slightly more than X7
- 30.5 inches third-row legroom for better rear passenger comfort
- AIRMATIC air suspension with 9-level adjustable damping for smooth ride
- Open-pore wood trim and MB-Tex leather as standard on higher trims
Cons
- 0-60 time of 4.9 sec is 0.3 sec slower than X7 M60i
- 19 mpg combined fuel economy slightly worse than X7
- MBUX infotainment system has steeper learning curve than iDrive 8
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
The BMW X7 M60i xDrive accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds, compared to the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLS 53's 4.9 seconds. This 0.3-second advantage comes from the X7's 523 hp engine versus the GLS's 516 hp, making the BMW noticeably quicker in real-world driving.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers significantly more third-row legroom at 30.5 inches versus the BMW X7's 28.2 inches. This 2.3-inch difference means passengers over 5'10" will experience noticeably more comfort in the GLS's rear seats, making it better for families with tall children or frequent rear-seat passengers.
The GLS features MB-Tex leather, open-pore wood trim, and premium stone accents as standard on higher trims, while the X7 uses high-quality plastics and traditional leather without the same level of material opulence. The GLS feels more luxurious to the touch, while the X7 prioritizes modern tech integration.
The BMW X7 achieves 20 mpg combined EPA rating versus the Mercedes-Benz GLS's 19 mpg. While the 1 mpg difference is modest, over 15,000 annual miles this translates to approximately 80 fewer gallons consumed annually, saving roughly $320/year in fuel costs.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS starts at $87,900 compared to the BMW X7 at $84,200, a $3,700 premium. However, the GLS offers more spacious rear seating and premium interior materials, while the X7 provides better value, sportier handling, and lower running costs.
Resources & Learn More
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