Compare performance (530 HP vs 634 HP), boot space and price (90800 £ vs 96100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW X7 or Mercedes GLS?
When it comes to luxury SUVs, two of the most prominent players in the market are the BMW X7 and the Mercedes GLS. Both vehicles embody premium craftsmanship, advanced technology, and impressive performance, yet they cater to slightly different tastes and preferences. In this automotive showdown, we will compare these two titans, focusing on key technical aspects and innovations that each brand has brought to the table for their 2023 models.
The BMW X7 offers a variety of engine choices, including a Diesel Mild Hybrid (MHEV) and two Petrol MHEVs, alongside a powerful petrol variant. The power output ranges from 352 HP for the base model to a roaring 530 HP for the top-spec variant. The vehicle boasts a maximum torque of up to 750 Nm, allowing for a thrilling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 4.7 seconds. In terms of fuel consumption, the X7 performs admirably with figures between 7.9 L/100 km to 12.1 L/100 km depending on the engine choice.
The Mercedes GLS, on the other hand, is equally formidable with a broader range of choices, including Diesel MHEV and several petrol variants. Its power output starts at 333 HP and scales up to an impressive 634 HP. The torque figures are equally impressive, peaking at 850 Nm, which translates to a swift 0-100 km/h time of just 4.2 seconds for the most powerful model. The GLS's fuel consumption also ranges from 7.9 L/100 km to 13.7 L/100 km, making it a competitive option for buyers seeking efficiency without sacrificing performance.
The BMW X7 measures 5181 mm in length, 2000 mm in width, and stands 1835 mm high, offering ample cabin space for up to seven passengers. With a generous trunk capacity of 750 liters, it excels in practicality for families and travelers alike.
In comparison, the Mercedes GLS is slightly longer, with variants measuring between 5208 mm and 5233 mm. It has a width of 1956 mm and a height ranging from 1782 mm to 1838 mm. However, the GLS offers a significantly smaller trunk space of only 355 liters, which may be a deciding factor for those who prioritize cargo capacity.
When it comes to infotainment and connectivity, both cars offer cutting-edge technology. The BMW X7 is equipped with the iDrive system that features a large touchscreen interface, advanced navigation, and voice-control capabilities, ensuring that drivers stay connected with ease. Additionally, the X7 includes driving assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a surround-view camera system.
On the flip side, the Mercedes GLS features the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, which also features a highly responsive touchscreen and voice activation, making it intuitive for users. The GLS excels in showcasing a premium sound system and a heads-up display, enhancing the driving experience. Furthermore, its advanced driver-assistance features include active brake assist and automatic parking capabilities.
Both the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS showcase unparalleled performance, luxury, and innovation. The BMW X7 stands out with its powerful engine options and greater trunk capacity, making it an ideal choice for families looking for space. Meanwhile, the Mercedes GLS offers a slightly more advanced infotainment system and a plush interior feel, catering to those who crave modern technology and precision. Ultimately, the choice between the two may boil down to personal preference and specific needs, but either way, you’ll be entering a world of luxury and performance.
When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.
BMW X7 has a hardly perceptible advantage in terms of price – it starts at 90800 £ , while the Mercedes GLS costs 96100 £ . That’s a price difference of around 5349 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes GLS manages with 7.80 L and is therefore hardly perceptible more efficient than the BMW X7 with 8 L. The difference is about 0.20 L per 100 km.
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 has a a bit edge – offering 634 HP compared to 530 HP. That’s roughly 104 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLS is a bit quicker – completing the sprint in 4.20 s, while the BMW X7 takes 4.70 s. That’s about 0.50 s faster.
In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLS performs to a small extent better – reaching 280 km/h, while the BMW X7 tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes GLS pulls to a small extent stronger with 850 Nm compared to 750 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm difference.
Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.
Both vehicles offer seating for 7 people.
In curb weight, BMW X7 is slight lighter – 2490 kg compared to 2550 kg. The difference is around 60 kg.
In terms of boot space, the BMW X7 offers convincingly more room – 750 L compared to 355 L. That’s a difference of about 395 L.
In maximum load capacity, the Mercedes GLS performs somewhat better – up to 2400 L, which is about 280 L more than the BMW X7.
When it comes to payload, BMW X7 barely noticeable takes the win – 760 kg compared to 695 kg. That’s a difference of about 65 kg.
The Mercedes GLS holds a very small edge 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.
The BMW X7 sits at the top of BMW’s SUV range, wrapping executive-level luxury and a cavernous cabin in a bold, road-commanding package. It’s ideal for buyers who want first-class comfort and presence on the road — think chauffeur-level refinement without hiring one, though you’ll need a confident approach to parking.
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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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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
90800 - 117500 £
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Price
96100 - 208500 £
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Consumption L/100km
8 - 12.1 L
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Consumption L/100km
7.8 - 13.7 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
-
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Electric Range
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
210 - 274 g/km
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co2
204 - 310 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
80 - 83 L
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Fuel tank capacity
90 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
7
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Seats
7
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Doors
5
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
2490 - 2675 kg
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Curb weight
2550 - 2825 kg
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Trunk capacity
750 L
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Trunk capacity
355 L
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Length
5181 mm
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Length
5208 - 5233 mm
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Width
2000 mm
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Width
1956 mm
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Height
1835 mm
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Height
1782 - 1838 mm
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Max trunk capacity
2120 L
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Max trunk capacity
2400 L
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Payload
680 - 760 kg
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Payload
445 - 695 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
352 - 530 HP
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Power HP
333 - 634 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.7 - 5.9 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.2 - 6.7 s
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Max Speed
245 - 250 km/h
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Max Speed
238 - 280 km/h
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Torque
520 - 750 Nm
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Torque
500 - 850 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
6 - 8
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Number of Cylinders
6 - 8
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Power kW
259 - 390 kW
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Power kW
245 - 466 kW
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Engine capacity
2993 - 4395 cm3
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Engine capacity
2989 - 3982 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
G
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CO2 Efficiency Class
G
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Brand
BMW
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Brand
Mercedes-Benz
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The BMW X7 is available as All-Wheel Drive.
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