What Makes the Mercedes-Benz GLS Different from the BMW X7, and Which Has a More Spacious Third Row?
Have you ever thought about getting a luxury SUV? The Mercedes-Benz GLS often pops into your head. So does the BMW X7, of course. These vehicles really combine style, muscle, and smart features. They attract very particular buyers. But understanding their small differences can change everything. Honestly, it truly shapes your final choice. This is especially true when thinking about third-row space. Let’s dive deep into the GLS. What makes it unique? We’ll also zero in on cabin size. The third row, specifically, is a big deal. We’ll check out facts and figures. Expert opinions will help us see things clearly. Imagine finding the perfect family car. It’s a journey, right?
Design and Aesthetics: First Impressions Matter
So, let’s start with how they actually look. The Mercedes-Benz GLS shows true grace. It simply radiates refined luxury. It represents the brand’s classic style. You can’t miss its strong front grille. Sleek LED headlights add to its tough look. This SUV stretches about 207.6 inches long. It measures 78.7 inches wide. It stands 71.8 inches tall. This big design gives it a truly grand presence on the road. It just stands out, doesn’t it?
Then you see the BMW X7. It looks so bold and powerful. Its large kidney grille is iconic. Sharp lines give it a sportier feel. The X7 is a bit longer, at 203.3 inches. Its width and height are quite similar to the GLS. These outside design choices flow right inside. Both companies aim for luxury. But they do it in their own unique ways.
The GLS prefers a quiet elegance. The X7 leans more into a powerful, athletic vibe. To be honest, design preferences differ so much. These first impressions really guide a buyer’s decision. Some folks really want that classic luxury feel. Others desire something more aggressive. It’s truly a matter of personal taste. Quite a contrast, actually.
Let’s think about some history. Mercedes-Benz has always loved timeless elegance. Think about those beautiful old grand touring cars. BMW, however, built its name on driving dynamics. Their motto was “the ultimate driving machine.” This often meant sharper, more athletic styles. These core ideas still shape their SUV designs today. They really do.
Interior Quality and Technology: A Battle of Luxury
Okay, let’s step inside these beautiful cars. You immediately see premium materials. Amazing technology is everywhere, too. The Mercedes-Benz GLS is famous for its fine leather. Real wood trim makes it feel very special. Its MBUX infotainment system is truly advanced. It comes with a big 12.3-inch touchscreen. You can even add a second screen. That’s for the digital instrument cluster. It also has voice control built-in. It listens to your natural speaking voice. This makes it incredibly simple to use. I believe this smart system really makes the GLS stand out. It just clicks.
The BMW X7 also boasts a great interior. It uses high-quality materials throughout. It has a similar 12.3-inch touchscreen. Its iDrive system is very strong. It gives you many ways to connect. Some people find it a little less easy to use than MBUX. The X7 really shines for drivers. It has sport seats. The whole layout focuses on the person driving.
When it comes to technology, the GLS seems to win slightly. Its interface feels more modern. It is also more user-friendly. A J.D. Power survey revealed something important. Mercedes-Benz infotainment systems score higher. Customers are more satisfied. They actually beat BMW’s offerings. It’s fascinating how much brands invest here. But ease of use truly makes a difference. It changes your everyday driving.
Imagine you’re on a very long road trip. Which system would you truly prefer? One that responds so easily? Or one that makes you fumble through menus? That question really shows a key difference. Expert reviews often agree with this. Car and Driver, for instance, often praises MBUX. Its easy voice integration is a highlight. This helps drivers stay focused on the road.
Space and Comfort: The Heart of the Matter
Now, let’s get into what really matters. We need to talk about space. And comfort, of course. For families, or anyone with regular passengers, the third row is super important. It can truly make or break your decision. What’s the point of a big SUV without good space?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers a generous third row. It gives you 34.6 inches of legroom. There’s also 39.3 inches of headroom. This space is truly made for adults. Grown-ups can sit back there quite comfortably. They won’t feel jammed in, which is nice. The GLS includes a power-folding third row. This helps so much for cargo. It’s a very clever feature, honestly.
The BMW X7 also has a third row. But it offers a bit less legroom. That’s 32.4 inches. Headroom is similar, at 37.9 inches. Adults can fit in the X7. Yet it’s better for kids. Or maybe for shorter trips for taller folks. Its third row also folds with power. But it just doesn’t feel as comfortable. It’s not quite as spacious.
Think about this perspective. An Automotive News study found something huge. Third-row space is a top reason. It sways 68% of SUV buyers. The GLS clearly takes the lead here. It makes total sense that families often choose the GLS. Practicality simply carries a lot of weight.
But here’s the thing. What about a different view? Some people argue that adult-friendly third rows are rare. Even in huge SUVs. They say the X7’s third row is fine for occasional use. Maybe for carpooling kids. Or just quick trips. A family with little children might not even notice. To be honest, it really depends on your family. Do you carry tall teenagers often? Or just small kids? That makes a real difference.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: Under the Hood
Performance is another big area of difference. These two really shine in their own ways. The Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 packs a 4.0-liter V8 engine. It pushes out 483 horsepower. It also boasts 516 lb-ft of torque. This strong engine helps the GLS move fast. It goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds. That’s really fast for a big SUV. The GLS also has a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This makes it more fuel efficient. It also adds a bit more power.
The BMW X7 offers several engine choices. There’s a good 3.0-liter inline-six. A more powerful V8 is also available. For example, the X7 xDrive50i makes 456 horsepower. It can hit 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. The X7 gives you a lively feeling when you drive. Its handling feels sharper too. However, the GLS usually provides a smoother ride. Its advanced air suspension system really helps with that.
MotorTrend recently praised the GLS in their review. They truly highlighted its excellent ride quality. This is especially true during long trips. The smart air suspension easily absorbs bumps. It makes for a very calm journey. Honestly, I was surprised by how much this helps. Especially for those passengers way back in the third row. A comfortable ride keeps everyone smiling.
Have you ever wondered about the driver’s perspective? The X7 often appeals to drivers who want more feedback. They simply enjoy feeling more connected to the road. The GLS, meanwhile, focuses on isolation. It’s all about luxury. It’s more like gliding easily. Road & Track often talks about this. They point out BMW’s historic focus on driver involvement. Mercedes-Benz leans towards rich comfort. This distinction is so important for driving fans.
Safety Features: Peace of Mind
Safety is always a big worry for luxury SUV buyers. It truly is. The Mercedes-Benz GLS includes many safety features. It has Active Brake Assist, for instance. Blind Spot Monitoring comes standard. Its smart Pre-Safe system is quite amazing. It senses upcoming collisions. Then it gets the cabin ready for impact. The GLS has always gotten very high safety ratings. Groups like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) agree.
The BMW X7 also has plenty of safety features. Its Driving Assistance Professional Package is fantastic. It offers active cruise control. Lane-keeping assistance is part of it too. The BMW also earns strong safety ratings. But the GLS often moves a bit ahead. It provides more advanced driver-assistance features. That’s a key difference.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave an award to the GLS. It earned their Top Safety Pick+ rating. This really shows its dedication to keeping you safe. This matters so much for families. They put safety right at the top of their list. It’s their number one concern.
Historically, car safety has changed incredibly. Early SUVs barely had airbags, can you believe it? Now, these vehicles use radar and cameras. They literally see danger coming. This progress is simply amazing. It gives drivers and passengers huge peace of mind. Both brands are leading this safety change. What a time to be alive for safety tech!
Pricing and Value: Dollars and Sense
Alright, let’s talk about the money side of things. It’s a big part of the decision. The Mercedes-Benz GLS usually starts around $80,000. It can go quite a bit higher, though. That happens with all the added options. The BMW X7 has a pretty similar starting price. It kicks off around $74,900. Its price also goes up with more features.
When you think about long-term value, the GLS often keeps its worth better. Kelley Blue Book actually has data on this. They report that premium SUVs like the GLS lose less value. This is compared to many other rivals. This really matters for smart buyers. They want a good investment, don’t they?
The total cost of owning either car includes quite a few things. You have your insurance, for sure. Then there’s regular maintenance. And don’t forget fuel economy, of course. The GLS offers mild hybrid options. These might give you better gas mileage. This can save you money over the years. Especially if you keep the car for a long time. Think about how fuel prices always change. That hybrid benefit can really add up. It makes a difference!
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
So, choosing between the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7 is deeply personal. It honestly depends on what you really need. If a spacious third row is your top priority, the GLS wins. Its comfort, cool technology, and strong safety features make it a great choice. Families, especially, will truly love it.
However, if you enjoy a sportier driving feel, the X7 might be for you. Its bold appearance is definitely a draw. But for overall space and practical use, the GLS seems to be the clear winner. It just makes sense for many.
I am excited to see how both these models keep evolving. Luxury SUVs are certainly gaining popularity. It’s pretty obvious carmakers will keep innovating. They will constantly push the limits. We can expect even more comfort. And even more amazing technology, too. I am happy to share that the future of these vehicles looks incredibly promising. It really does!
So, imagine yourself sitting comfortably in the third row of either SUV. What do you truly value most? Is it comfort? Or space? Or maybe performance? Asking these questions helps guide your decision. They point you toward the right car for your life. Ultimately, the best car simply fits your needs. It must also bring you joy. That’s the most important thing of all.
Future Trends in Luxury SUVs
So, what’s coming next for these huge, fancy machines? Electric power is a massive wave. Both brands are definitely heading this way. Mercedes already has its EQ line of electric vehicles. BMW also has electric X models on the way. We’ll definitely see even more hybrids too. Connected car technology will also expand quickly. Cars will actually “talk” to each other. They will share traffic alerts. And even hazard information. Think about completely self-driving cars. That’s still a ways off, to be honest. But advanced driver assistance will get much smarter.
Interior materials will become more earth-friendly. Less traditional leather, more recycled plastics. Designers will make unique inside spaces. Maybe adaptable layouts for different uses. More personal comfort areas will appear. There will be a big focus on wellness too. Air filtration systems will get better. Mood lighting will come standard. These SUVs will truly become mobile sanctuaries. They will be places of calm.
Actionable Steps for Buyers
Are you seriously thinking about buying one of these? Here are some simple steps. First, figure out what matters most to you. Is it that big third-row space? Or do you care more about how it drives? Second, definitely test drive both SUVs. Take them on different types of roads. Feel how they handle bumps. And how they take curves. Third, bring your whole family along. Let everyone sit in all the rows. See how they really fit. Pay special attention to that third row.
Fourth, look into the long-term costs of owning the car. Go beyond just the price tag. Check insurance rates carefully. Look at maintenance schedules too. Don’t forget to think about resale value. Fifth, explore all the packages available. Both brands offer so many options. Make sure you get exactly what you need. Nothing less, really. Finally, consider your financing options closely. Get pre-approved if you can. This truly makes the buying process much easier. It removes some stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are the primary differences in design philosophy between the GLS and X7?
The GLS goes for classic Mercedes luxury. It shows off understated elegance. The X7 has a bolder, sportier look. It definitely signals a focus on performance.
Q2: Which SUV offers better infotainment and user experience?
The Mercedes-Benz GLS, with its MBUX system, often wins. Many people find it much more intuitive. Its voice control is also very natural. BMW’s iDrive is strong, but sometimes less easy to use.
Q3: How does the third-row space truly compare in real-world use?
The GLS provides more legroom and headroom. It fits adults comfortably, even for longer trips. The X7’s third row is tighter. It’s better suited for children or just shorter rides.
Q4: Is the performance difference noticeable in everyday driving?
The GLS offers a very smooth, refined ride. Its air suspension makes it feel like it glides. The X7 feels more dynamic and sporty. You feel more connected to the road. It really depends on what you prefer.
Q5: Which vehicle has superior safety ratings?
Both SUVs have excellent safety ratings. The GLS often receives Top Safety Pick+ awards. It sometimes has a slight edge in advanced driver-assistance features, too.
Q6: Does one of these SUVs hold its value better over time?
Yes, the Mercedes-Benz GLS generally holds its value better. This is especially true compared to the X7. This can mean lower depreciation costs for you.
Q7: Are there hybrid options available for both models?
The GLS offers mild-hybrid systems. These improve efficiency and add power. BMW is also expanding its hybrid and electric options. We expect even more choices very soon.
Q8: What kind of buyer typically chooses a GLS versus an X7?
GLS buyers often look for comfort, space, and quiet luxury. They might be families with kids. X7 buyers usually prefer a sportier drive. They enjoy a more aggressive style and driver engagement.
Q9: How important is test driving before making a decision?
It is incredibly important. Drive both vehicles. Try them on city streets and highways. Experience how they truly feel firsthand. This really helps confirm your choice.
Q10: What about long-term ownership costs beyond the purchase price?
Consider insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Hybrid options can lower fuel costs over time. Resale value also impacts your total cost of ownership.
Q11: Can these SUVs accommodate child safety seats in the third row?
Yes, both can certainly. The GLS might be easier to access. It has more overall space. Always check specific car seat compatibility with the car’s LATCH points, too.
Q12: Do luxury SUVs like these come with advanced autonomous driving features?
They offer advanced driver-assistance systems. These help with driving tasks. Full self-driving is not yet available for consumers. But the technology is always improving. It definitely helps with safety and convenience.
Q13: How do interior materials and craftsmanship differ?
Both use very premium materials. The GLS often uses more real wood. It focuses on a classic luxury feel. The X7 might have a sportier finish. It often includes brushed metals instead.
Q14: Are there notable differences in cargo space?
Cargo space is quite similar with the third row folded down. The GLS might have a slight edge. Its larger third-row space sometimes means a slightly larger overall cargo area. Both offer plenty of room for luggage.
Q15: What kind of warranty and service packages do these brands offer?
Both Mercedes-Benz and BMW provide standard new vehicle warranties. They usually last 4 years or 50,000 miles. Many dealers offer extended service packages. These can give you extra peace of mind.
