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BMW X3 vs Mercedes GLS comparison

Compare performance (398 HP vs 404 HP), boot space and price (51,700 £ vs 92,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW X3 or Mercedes GLS?

BMW X3 vs Mercedes GLS: Key differences

BMW X3

3.9 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • considerably cheaper
  • substantially more efficient
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • clearly lighter
  • markedly more trunk space
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Mercedes GLS

4.3 (1 Reviews)
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  • very slightly more power
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

X3

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

BMW X3 is considerably cheaper – starting at 51,700 £ , while the Mercedes GLS costs 92,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 40,977 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the BMW X3 uses 2.8 L/100km and is substantially more efficient than the Mercedes GLS with 7.9 L/100km. The difference is about 5.1 L/100km.

GLS

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes GLS offers very slightly more power – delivering 404 HP compared to 398 HP. That’s roughly 6 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW X3 is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 4.6 s, while the Mercedes GLS takes 5.6 s. That’s about 1 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes GLS delivers a bit more torque with 750 Nm compared to 670 Nm. That’s about 80 Nm more.

X3

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Mercedes GLS offers more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, BMW X3 is clearly lighter – 1,930 kg compared to 2,580 kg. The difference is around 650 kg.

Looking at boot space, the BMW X3 offers markedly more boot space – 570 L compared to 355 L. That’s a difference of about 215 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes GLS carries clearly more – 820 kg compared to 570 kg. That’s a difference of about 250 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BMW X3 holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £51,700
X3

BMW X3

  • Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Plug-in Hybrid
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 197 - 398 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 2.8 - 7.7 L/100km
  • Electric Range 88 km
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Frequently compared as well

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Mercedes GLS

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

BMW X3

The BMW X3 blends sporty handling with premium comfort, making it a strong choice for drivers who want an engaging everyday SUV. Its well-appointed interior and confident road manners give it broad appeal for families and commuters who value style and versatility.

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Reviews BMW X3

3.9 (3 Reviews)
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Franck
3 Aug 2026, 09:01:46

I've been driving an X3 30e for a year. Vibration problems that BMW can't resolve and ultimately considers everything normal, even though an independent assessment says otherwise.
Too firm despite the adaptive suspension (20-inch wheels).
Excessive road/rolling noise.
Finish and presentation quality deplorable for a vehicle at this price.
The personal assistant is less effective than on my previous X3 (G01).

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Long-distance driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Mercedes GLS

The GLS — usually just called the GLS — is Mercedes' flagship SUV, wrapping limousine-like comfort and commanding road presence into a smart, family-ready package. It pampers occupants with a hushed cabin, premium materials and intuitive tech, while still managing to feel confident and a little indulgent on the daily commute.

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Reviews Mercedes GLS

4.3 (1 Reviews)
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No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

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Mercedes GLS

Costs and Consumption
Price
51,700 - 73,000 £
Price
92,700 - 104,600 £
Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 7.7 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
7.9 - 9.9 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
88 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
64 - 175 g/km
co2
206 - 226 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
7
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,930 - 2,140 kg
Curb weight
2,580 - 2,670 kg
Trunk capacity
460 - 570 L
Trunk capacity
355 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,920 mm
Width
1,956 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
570 kg
Payload
810 - 820 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Plug-in Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
197 - 398 HP
Power HP
336 - 404 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.6 - 7.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.6 - 6.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
330 - 670 Nm
Torque
560 - 750 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
6
Power kW
145 - 293 kW
Power kW
247 - 297 kW
Engine capacity
1,995 - 2,998 cm3
Engine capacity
2,989 - 2,999 cm3

General
Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
F, E, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
G
Brand
BMW
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Is the BMW X3 offered with different drivetrains?

The BMW X3 is offered with All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.