2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC presented a refreshed exterior with a new front fascia, featuring a trapezoidal grille and angled LED headlights, reminiscent of the A-Class and CLS-Class. The taillights maintained a similar design to previous models, with square LEDs. While the GLC's proportions were adequate, it lacked visual excitement, especially in the mass-market GLC 300 model. The AMG versions, however, added some flair with wide tires and a vertical-bar grille. The GLC Coupe's fastback roof offered a touch of style, but overall, the GLC's design was understated. Despite its high price tag, the GLC's exterior did not stand out in parking lots.

Inside, the GLC boasted one of the best interiors in its class, with high-quality materials and impeccable fit and finish. The all-black interior with stained gray ash wood was luxurious, with a continuous sweep of wood from the air vents, padded leather seats, and metal speaker covers. The 2020 model introduced a standard 10.3-inch touchscreen, replacing the smaller displays of previous models. The steering wheel featured more buttons and a thicker, softer feel, while a 12.3-inch display was available to replace analog gauges. The interior's quality and design were standout features, making the GLC a comfortable and stylish choice.

The 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in its class, offering superior interior quality compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. It exuded prestige and technological sophistication, with a significant visual presence. The X7 was available in three versions, with the xDrive40i starting at $74,900, the M50i at $99,800, and the Alpina BX7 at $141,300. The test vehicle, an xDrive40i, featured 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium leather, and a trailer hitch, with a total cost of $91,745.

The X7's styling was bold, with a massive grille that suited its large SUV frame. Inside, it shared design elements with the X5, offering high-tech features and high-quality materials. The interior was comfortable and luxurious, with heated front seats, armrests, and a steering wheel. The second-row captain's chairs were exceptionally comfortable, and the third-row seat was surprisingly accommodating for adults. The X7 offered a small cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with the seats down, and a maximum of 90.4 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 featured a new turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The 9-speed automatic transmission, available in rear-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive, was reprogrammed for better performance. The GLC 300 felt more responsive than previous models, but the engine still fell short compared to competitors like the BMW X3. The AMG GLC 43, with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivered 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, offering impressive performance. The AMG GLC 63 models, with V8 engines, provided even more power, but the GLC 300's handling and steering were disappointing, with body roll and vague steering. Fuel economy for the GLC 300 4Matic was rated at 21 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 combined.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The X7 included eBoost mild-hybrid technology, with a 48-volt starter/generator and battery, improving responsiveness and fuel economy. However, the 2021 model's fuel economy ratings were lower than the 2020 version, at 19 mpg city, 24 highway, and 21 combined. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, with smooth and serene driving characteristics. The Dynamic Handling Package improved maneuverability and stability, but the X7's weight and size affected its handling on tight roads.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered a mix of digital and physical controls, with a steep learning curve for new Mercedes drivers. The column shifter and door-mounted seat controls were unconventional but practical. The MBUX system, with a 10.3-inch touchscreen, was user-friendly with practice, offering customizable layouts and features. The GLC had enough room for four adults, but the back seat's reclining mechanism was cumbersome. Cargo space was limited, with 19 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 57 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, with heated front seats, armrests, and a steering wheel as standard. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, and the third-row seat was surprisingly spacious for adults. The X7 offered a four-zone automatic climate control system, with an available five-zone system for third-row occupants. Cargo space was limited behind the third row, but expanded to 48.6 cubic feet with the seats down, and a maximum of 90.4 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured the MBUX system with augmented reality navigation, cloud-based voice assistant, and AI-based tasks. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and optional wireless charging. The Off-Road Engineering Package added hill-descent control and underbody shields, but the GLC was not designed for off-road adventures.

The 2021 BMW X7 included Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with navigation. The system featured a 12.3-inch display, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and enhanced SiriusXM 360L. The X7 offered wireless charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control. The head-up display was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC was a 2019 Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with top ratings in crash tests and forward emergency braking. The NHTSA awarded the GLC a 5-star rating in all crash tests. New for 2020, Exit Warning Assist used radar sensors to detect approaching cyclists or cars, warning occupants for up to 3 minutes after shutting down the car. Other features included Pre-Safe Sound and Predictive Brake Priming.

The 2021 BMW X7 included standard safety technologies, with optional Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package added features like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist. The X7's ADAS was accurate and smooth, but had some issues with lane-maintenance technology. The Parking Assistance Package included semi-automated parallel parking assist and a surround-view camera.