Mercedes-Benz GLS vs BMW x7 for Birmingham Luxury Buyers
The Mercedes-Benz GLS and the BMW X7 provide the sophistication, power, and comfort that many locals in Birmingham, Alabama, love. With their top-tier safety technology and high-quality materials, the seven-seaters are built to impress. Our auto professionals at Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham have written this comprehensive Mercedes-Benz GLS versus BMW X7 comparison to help you decide which of the two is the best buy for you. Let’s explore the key features of these luxury SUVs and help you make the investment that best suits your needs.
Comfort and Interior Space
Beginning with the interiors, both the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7 have comfortable spaces, each with three rows of seating to accommodate up to seven passengers. However, these vehicles are notably different inside.
In the front, the BMW X7 offers 41.9 inches of headroom, surpassing the GLS’s 39.4 inches. Still, the GLS boasts a front legroom of 40.3 inches, outshining the BMW SUV, which offers 39.8 inches.
In the second row, the GLS has 41.9 inches of legroom, giving it an edge over the X7, which provides 37.6 inches. Nevertheless, the BMW vehicle excels in terms of headroom in the second row, with 39.9 inches, surpassing its Mercedes-Benz rival, which has 38.9 inches.
In the third row, the GLS is more comfortable than the BMW X7, thanks to its 34.6 inches of legroom and 38.9 inches of headroom, compared to the X7’s 33.3 inches of legroom and 36.6 inches of headroom.
With 17.4 cubic feet, the Mercedes-Benz GLS wins in terms of cargo space behind the third row, with its BMW opponent providing only 12.8 cubic feet. But the position changes when looking at the space with the second row folded down, where the X7 provides 90.4 cubic feet of space compared to the smaller GLS provision of 84.7 cubic feet.
Exterior Design
Although both the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the BMW X7 are visually appealing, the latter has a more aggressive and sporty exterior design. Its distinct features include sharper lines and a bold kidney grill.
On the contrary, the GLS has a more luxurious look with its boxier silhouette and upright grill. It certainly commands more attention on Birmingham roads, which makes it the champion in this category.
Technology and Infotainment
When comparing the BMW X7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS’ technology and infotainment systems, both SUVs have luxury and connectivity at the top of their lists. The Mercedes-Benz GLS features a 12.3-inch digital display and a similarly sized touch screen for the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system. Similarly, the X7 has a 12.3-inch digital display, but its infotainment touch screen measures 14.9 inches.
One feature that gives the Mercedes-Benz GLS an advantage in this area is the Energizing Comfort package, which provides a more relaxing experience by adjusting lighting, massage, and sound settings. Additionally, the rear passengers in the GLS have a separate tablet to control their comfort and entertainment features via the MBUX infotainment system.
Performance and Engine Options
The Mercedes-Benz GLS and the BMW X7 guarantee competitive performance. For the 2025 model year, both SUVs feature 3.0-liter six-cylinder engines that deliver 375 horsepower and incorporate mild hybrid systems. The X7 presents you with a second option, though a 4.4-liter eight-cylinder engine that produces up to 523 horsepower.
The GLS is equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission with 4MATIC® all-wheel drive (AWD). It promises a comfortable and refined driving experience, along with impressive off-road capabilities. Conversely, the X7 features an eight-speed automatic transmission with xDrive AWD, which results in sharper handling that can sometimes compromise smoothness without proper driving techniques.
The BMW X7 narrowly beats the GLS in terms of fuel economy. The X7 achieves 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, whereas the GLS reaches 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
BMW X7 Versus Mercedes-Benz GLS Safety and Reliability
The Mercedes-Benz GLS has a suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies, which contribute to its leading position in the luxury SUV segment. These technologies include:
- Adaptive cruise control.
- Active brake assist.
- Lane-centering assist.
- Surround-view camera system.
- Latch connectors for child safety.
Additionally, the GLS uses the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, which automatically adjusts your speed according to traffic conditions. This facility enables you to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, thereby minimizing the chances of rear-end collisions.
The X7’s advanced safety features put it on equal footing with its GLS rival. The BMW capitalizes on its manufacturer’s Driving Assistant Professional package, which offers aids such as:
- Forward collision warning.
- Adaptive cruise control.
- Front and rear parking sensors.
- Traffic jam assist.
- Lane departure warning.
The GLS and X7 have various technologies to enhance your safety on the road. They also boost your confidence when you’re behind the wheel and minimize fatigue, adding to the SUVs’ reliability. This can lead to more enjoyable driving experiences.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Mercedes-Benz GLS has a starting MSRP of $89,200 for its 2025 GLS 450 4MATIC® model. Conversely, the BMW X7’s xDrive40i trim starts at $84,300. For both vehicles, higher trim levels have more expensive price tags.
How To Make the Right Pick
Choosing between the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the BMW X7 can be challenging, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. The secret to making the best purchase decision is prioritizing your needs and preferences. For example, the GLS is ideal for your family if you travel a lot. This vehicle’s generous legroom enhances comfort for your loved ones, while the spacious cargo area provides ample room to store luggage.
Which Luxury SUV Suits You Best?
If you’re looking for an SUV that looks good on the outside and feels even better on the inside, opt for the Mercedes-Benz GLS. Safe, powerful, and comfortable, this ride doesn’t disappoint for its price. When you’re ready to drive yours home, visit Mercedes-Benz of Birmingham in Alabama and explore our selection of preowned and new SUVs. If you have any questions, connect with our team today — we’d love to hear from you.