BMW X7 or Mercedes GLS? A Complete 2024 Luxury SUV Buyer’s Guide
BMW X7 or Mercedes GLS? A Complete 2024 Luxury SUV Buyer’s Guide
Posted on October 2, 2024
In the realm of full-sized luxury SUVs, the 2024 BMW X7 and the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS are powerhouses that stand out for their elegance and performance. Both vehicles cater to those who desire the epitome of comfort, style, and cutting-edge technology.
This comparison will help you decide which model aligns better with your preferences and lifestyle, from exterior design and interior comfort to performance capabilities and advanced technology.
BMW X7 vs Mercedes GLS Overview
Here’s a quick look at how the 2024 BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS compare in power, efficiency, and space.
| Feature | 2024 BMW X7 | 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS |
| Starting Price (MSRP)* | $111,500 | $116,100 |
| Engine (L) | Intercooled Turbo Gas/Electric I-6 | Intercooled Turbo Gas/Electric I-6 |
| Cylinder Configuration | 3.0 L/183 | 3.0 L/183 |
| Horsepower | 375 hp @ 5200 rpm | 375 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 398 @ 1850 rpm | 369 @ 1600 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 9-Speed Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (City) | 11.3 L/100 km | 12.7 L/100 km |
| Fuel Economy (Highway) | 9.5 L/100 km | 9.6 L/100 km |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 10.5 L/100 km | 11.3 L/100 km |
| Battery Type | 0.40-kWh & Lithium Ion Battery | 1.00-kWh & Lithium Ion Battery |
| Exterior Length (mm) | 5,171 | 5,207 |
| Exterior Body Width (mm) | 1,999 | 1,956 |
| Front Legroom (mm) | 1,011 | 1,024 |
| Rear Legroom (mm) | 955 | 1,064 |
| Front Headroom (mm) | 1,064 | 1,001 |
| Rear Headroom (mm) | 1,013 | 1,021 |
| Front Shoulder Room (mm) | 1,524 | 1,506 |
Captivating Designs Inside and Out
A comparison of the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS highlights striking exterior presence and refined interiors, showcasing luxury, space, and craftsmanship.
Exterior Style and Presence
The BMW X7 delivers a bold and modern look, led by its illuminated kidney grille and sharp LED headlights. Its sleek silhouette gives it a polished yet confident road presence, perfect for drivers who want an SUV that feels both elegant and athletic.
The X7’s lighting signatures and clean body lines make it a stylish choice for families and professionals who appreciate a refined, contemporary appearance.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS, meanwhile, leans toward a more muscular, stately design. Its long wheelbase adds to its commanding stance, while the redesigned grille and refined LED taillamps create a strong, upscale impression.
The GLS appeals to buyers who prefer a vehicle that feels substantial, luxurious, and unmistakably premium on the road, ideal for those who want their SUV to reflect authority and classic sophistication.
Interior Craftsmanship and Space
Inside the BMW X7, the cabin blends high-end materials with a modern layout. The spacious seating, soft-touch finishes, and the BMW Curved Display create a high-tech yet warm environment. It’s the right fit for drivers who value advanced technology wrapped in an elegant, comfort-driven interior, great for families or anyone who wants long trips to feel effortless.
On the other hand, the Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a refined interior built around user comfort and luxury. The twin-screen infotainment system provides an intuitive, premium interface, while the generous seating layout guarantees every passenger rides comfortably. The GLS connects best with buyers who want a traditional sense of luxury, generous space, and a smooth, sophisticated driving atmosphere.
Powerful Performance Features - BMW X7 vs Mercedes GLS
Time to see how the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS stack up in power, drivetrain technology, and handling, helping you choose the performance that suits your drive best.
Engine Options & Performance Specs
The 2024 BMW X7 offers various powertrains, including the xDrive40i with a 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo inline six-cylinder engine that produces 375 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more performance, the M60i offers a 4.4-litre V8 with 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The Alpina XB7 raises the stakes with a 4.4-litre V8 tuned to deliver 631 horsepower. Whether you opt for the base or top-tier model, the BMW X7 promises exceptional power and agility.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS, meanwhile, starts with the GLS 450, which offers 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque from its 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. For a higher level of performance, the GLS 580 ups the ante with 510 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque from its 4.0-litre V8. Both SUVs are incredibly powerful, but the X7 M60i and Alpina XB7 models excel in delivering sportier, more dynamic driving experiences.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The BMW X7 comes equipped with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission, offering smooth, responsive shifts. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensures the vehicle handles a variety of terrains with ease. This makes the X7 a solid choice for those who want a performance-driven driving experience.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS features a 9-speed automatic transmission paired with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The 4MATIC system enhances driving stability and traction, particularly useful in challenging weather conditions like Vancouver’s rainy climate.
Both SUVs deliver reliable, efficient power, but the GLS leans toward a smooth, comfortable ride, while the BMW X7 offers a sharper, sportier edge.
Suspension and Handling
When it comes to suspension, the BMW X7’s adaptive air suspension and M Sport package give it an edge in performance, delivering sharper, more agile handling. This setup is ideal for those who enjoy a dynamic driving feel on both city roads and highways.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS comes standard with AIRMATIC suspension, which delivers a smoother, more comfortable ride. This is perfect for those who value a plush, luxurious experience, especially on long drives or when driving with multiple passengers.
Cutting-Edge Technology Features
The BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS blend advanced infotainment, smart connectivity, and driver-assistance features to enhance convenience and confidence, helping you find the tech experience that fits your lifestyle.
Infotainment and Touchscreens
The 2024 BMW X7 is equipped with the iDrive 8 system, which features a curved display that integrates navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings into a user-friendly interface. The system allows seamless smartphone integration and supports features such as the Intelligent Personal Assistant for hands-free controls.
Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Benz GLS features the MBUX system, which includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The system also offers augmented video for navigation, providing a highly intuitive and visually engaging experience. The addition of voice control and customizable display options ensures ease of use for drivers and passengers alike.
Driving Assistance and Smart Features
Both SUVs come equipped with advanced driver assistance features. The BMW X7 includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a surround-view camera system, making it ideal for long drives and urban navigation.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS includes similar features, such as active brake assist and blind-spot monitoring. The GLS also offers additional features like Trailer Maneuvering Assist and an updated trailer menu in the infotainment system, which is perfect for those who plan to tow.
Comprehensive Safety Features
Both vehicles prioritize safety with a wide range of standard driver-assistance features. The BMW X7 includes essentials such as an anti-collision system, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, hill holder, and a seven-airbag system. These features work together to support driver awareness and confidence on the road.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a similarly strong safety foundation, featuring an anti-collision system, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, roll stability control, hill holder, and a nine-airbag layout for added protection. While it lacks rear cross-traffic alert, the GLS is known for its proactive safety approach, making it appealing to families or anyone seeking maximum reassurance behind the wheel.
Technology and Towing
The BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS pair strong towing capability with smart, supportive technology, helping you choose the SUV that delivers confidence and control for every haul.
Max Towing Capacities
The BMW X7 offers a towing capacity of 2,700 kg (5,953 lbs), which is excellent for most recreational needs. This level of strength is ideal for pulling a small to mid-size travel trailer, a pair of jet skis, or a light boat for weekend trips. For families who enjoy outdoor activities without needing oversized equipment, the X7 provides more than enough capability.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS pushes ahead with a higher rating of 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs). This added power allows drivers to tow larger boats, bigger camping trailers, or heavier utility loads with confidence. Buyers who frequently tow for vacations, sports, or work will appreciate the GLS’s extra muscle and its strong gearing setup designed for heavy-duty tasks.
Tech that Supports Towing
While towing strength matters, technology plays an equally important role in making the experience easier, especially for drivers new to large luxury SUVs.
The BMW X7 increases towing confidence with stability systems and clear driver information, helping maintain control when hauling cargo on highways or navigating tight spaces. Its modern display systems provide helpful visibility, making it easier to monitor surroundings when connecting or maneuvering a trailer.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS adds a range of supportive features aimed at simplifying heavy towing. Its advanced drivetrain setup provides improved traction when pulling heavier loads, while its driver-assist systems help manage stability and braking. For owners who tow larger equipment, these tools make the overall experience smoother and more controlled.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency matters for Vancouver drivers, especially with frequent city traffic and longer weekend highway trips. Here’s how the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS compare in everyday use.
Real-World Efficiency (City vs Highway)
The BMW X7 delivers strong efficiency for a large luxury SUV, rated at 11.3 L/100 km in the city and 9.5 L/100 km on the highway. It performs best on longer stretches, such as Highway 1 and the Sea-to-Sky, where its mild-hybrid system helps reduce fuel use.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is slightly less efficient, with 12.7 L/100 km in city driving and 9.6 L/100 km on the highway. In Vancouver’s stop-and-go traffic or North Shore elevation changes, the GLS may consume a bit more fuel, but still remains competitive within its class.
Seating Capacity and Lifestyle Suitability
Both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS feature a standard second-row bench with generous shoulder and legroom, comfortably accommodating seven passengers in a 2+3+2 layout. Optional captain’s chairs in many trims create a premium six-seat arrangement with easier third-row access.
The X7 appeals to drivers seeking a mix of luxury and a driver-focused feel, with supportive seating and high-tech features that make long trips enjoyable for families or executives. The GLS prioritizes a softer, more relaxed ride, offering spacious comfort across all three rows.
Overall, both models offer flexible seating for a wide range of lifestyles, whether you need school-run practicality, business-ready comfort, or a spacious SUV for extended travel.
Ownership Costs, Maintenance & Long-Term Value in Vancouver
Owning a luxury SUV in Vancouver means considering not just purchase price, but long-term maintenance, warranty protection, and how each vehicle holds value in local driving conditions. Both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS offer strong ownership support, though their long-term costs can differ depending on driving habits, service needs, and whether you lease or buy.
BMW provides a 4-year/80,000 km basic warranty, with optional extended coverage up to 6 years/200,000 km and Service Inclusive packages that bundle scheduled maintenance and wear items. For Vancouver drivers, especially those navigating North Shore rain, mountain roads, and frequent commuting, these packages help stabilize long-term costs and maintain resale value.
Mercedes-Benz also offers 4-year/80,000 km basic coverage with roadside assistance and factory-trained servicing. GLS ownership tends to emphasize comfort and refinement, though long-term costs can rise depending on trim level and usage, particularly for families using the vehicle heavily in urban traffic or on winter trips to areas like Whistler or Kelowna.
Overall, both SUVs deliver strong value when maintained through certified technicians. Buyers planning to keep their vehicle long-term may appreciate BMW’s extended maintenance packages, while leasing customers often focus on standard warranty coverage and predictable service schedules. In either case, both models offer dependable ownership support for Vancouver’s climate and driving conditions.
Model-Year Comparison: BMW X7 vs Mercedes GLS (2019–2024)
Both the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS have evolved steadily since their current generations launched. Rather than dramatic year-to-year overhauls, each has received a series of refinements, improving technology, comfort, power delivery, and design. This high-level summary helps shoppers understand how the 2024 models fit into the broader development of both SUVs.
BMW X7 Year-over-Year Evolution
The BMW X7 has evolved steadily since its debut, gaining refinements in technology, comfort, and performance each year. Here’s how the model has progressed from its launch through the 2024 update.
2019–2022: Early Models (First Generation Launch + Gradual Tech/Upholstery Updates)
The BMW X7 debuted as BMW’s flagship three-row SUV with a focus on luxury, performance, and advanced driver assistance. These early years introduced its core identity: spacious seating, strong inline-six and V8 engines, and BMW’s well-known driver-focused feel. Over time, BMW layered in incremental improvements, including mild-hybrid enhancements, new interior materials, and updated driver-assistance features.
2023: Major Facelift (Design Refresh + New Infotainment Architecture)
A significant update arrived for the 2023 model year. The X7 received a redesigned front fascia, revised lighting design, and a fully updated interior technology experience. This includes BMW’s curved display and the next-generation iDrive interface, transforming both the visual layout and usability of the cabin. Mild-hybrid systems became more integrated, improving efficiency and smoothness.
2024: Refinement and Personalization Updates
For 2024, the X7 continues with the refreshed design and tech platform, adding subtle updates such as new wheel designs, enhanced customization options, and refinements to driver-assistance software. Powertrains carry forward with small efficiency improvements, giving buyers a polished, modern version of BMW’s luxury flagship.
Mercedes-Benz GLS Year-over-Year Evolution
The Mercedes-Benz GLS has refined its blend of comfort, technology, and spacious design with each model year. The summary below shows how the GLS evolved from its foundation years to its most recent updates.
2019–2022: Foundation Years (Space, Comfort, MBUX Improvements)
The GLS entered this period emphasizing interior space, comfort, and quietness—its traditional strengths. Across these years, Mercedes expanded MBUX functionality, added more driver-assistance features, and refined ride quality. Higher trims (including Maybach and AMG variants) widened the lineup for buyers seeking ultra-luxury or high performance.
2023: Interior + Technology Enhancements
The mid-cycle update brought improvements to cabin materials, seat comfort, and available tech packages. Features like enhanced navigation visuals, improved connectivity options, and expanded rear-seat technologies helped position the GLS as a go-to choice for families and comfort-oriented drivers.
2024: Styling Refresh + Updated Interface
For 2024, Mercedes updated the GLS with a refreshed front-end design, new grille treatments, and an upgraded multimedia interface. Luxury-focused trims, especially Maybach, receive enhanced finishes and comfort amenities. The GLS retains its comfort-priority tuning, making the 2024 model one of the most refined versions to date.
What’s New in 2024 and 2025?
For both SUVs, the latest models emphasize:
BMW X7 (2024)
- Continued use of BMW’s curved display and modern iDrive interface
- Expanded customization options
- Incremental efficiency refinements to existing engines
- Updated wheel designs and interior materials
Mercedes-Benz GLS (2024)
- Revised front fascia with updated grille and lighting
- Updated MBUX multimedia system with more intuitive controls
- Added luxury options for Maybach variants
These updates keep both SUVs competitive, but their philosophies remain distinct:
X7 = more dynamic, tech-forward luxury
GLS = more comfort-focused, traditional luxury
BMW X7 vs Mercedes GLS: Key Year-by-Year Highlights |
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|---|---|---|
| Model Years | BMW X7 Highlights | Mercedes GLS Highlights |
| 2019–2022 | Launch Period, Strong Engines, Expanding Driver Assistance, Gradual Tech/Material Upgrades | Emphasis on Space & Comfort, Early MBUX Development, Refinement Across Trims |
| 2023 | Major Facelift: Redesign + Curved Display + Updated Infotainment | Enhanced Cabin Materials & Tech Packages |
| 2024 | Additional Customization, Polished Software, Updated Wheels & Finishes | Refreshed Front Design + Upgraded MBUX + Added Luxury Amenities |
Which SUV Fits You Best – The BMW X7 or Mercedes GLS?
For those who want a sportier, more dynamic driving experience with high performance, responsive handling, and advanced technology, the BMW X7 is the better choice. For buyers who prioritize comfort, generous interior space, and a family-friendly cabin, the Mercedes-Benz GLS is an excellent option.
Both SUVs offer flexible seating, advanced safety features, and towing capabilities, so your final choice comes down to whether you value spirited driving and tech-forward design (X7) or ultimate comfort, relaxed cruising, and passenger-focused luxury (GLS).
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FAQs
Is the BMW X7 bigger than the GLS?
The GLS is slightly longer, while the X7 is wider; overall interior space is similar.
Which SUV has better resale value?
Both tend to hold their value well among full-size luxury SUVs. Resale depends heavily on trim, options, mileage, and service history, so it’s best to compare specific vehicles and current market data.
Are these SUVs good for snow?
Yes, both have all-wheel-drive systems and traction features suitable for snowy conditions.
Which is more reliable long-term?
Both are reliable with proper maintenance; BMW may need more upkeep for performance models over time.