2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE presented a more refined and softened exterior compared to its predecessors, with a reduced drag coefficient from .32 to .29, which Mercedes claimed made it a class leader. The most noticeable change was at the front, giving the vehicle a handsome yet unoffensive appearance. Inside, the GLE offered increased headroom and legroom due to a 3.1-inch longer wheelbase, allowing for an optional third row, although this feature was not available in the test model. The interior was luxurious, with options like black leather upholstery and a fragrance system, though some features like heated and ventilated seats required additional costs. The vehicle's paint, however, showed an unexpected orange-peel effect, which was disappointing for a premium option.

The 2021 BMW X7 stood out on the road with its significant visual presence and luxurious interior quality, surpassing competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The test model, an X7 xDrive40i, was equipped with 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium leather, and a trailer hitch, with a total cost of $91,745. The X7's massive grille was fitting for its size, and its styling was both traditional and glamorous. Inside, the X7 shared similarities with the X5, offering high-tech design and quality materials. The vehicle's interior was comfortable and spacious, with features like heated seats and a five-zone climate control system, making it a top choice for luxury SUV buyers.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While it offered sufficient power at speed, the engine felt sluggish from a stop, likely due to the vehicle's nearly 5,000-pound weight. The 9-speed automatic transmission was decent, though not as smooth as the BMW X5's 8-speed. The GLE 350's fuel economy was impressive, with 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined, but the BMW X5 offered better performance with its standard turbocharged inline-6 engine.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive AWD system. The X7 included eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which improved responsiveness and reduced engine load. Despite the technology, the X7's fuel economy dropped to 19 mpg city, 24 highway, and 21 combined. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and while it handled well, the self-leveling air suspension struggled with body motions. The Dynamic Handling Package improved maneuverability, and the M Sport brakes provided excellent stopping power.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE benefited from an extended wheelbase, offering spacious second-row seating and optional third-row seating. Cargo space ranged from 33.3 to 39.3 cubic feet behind the second row, with a total of 79.4 cubic feet available with seats lowered. The interior featured dual 12.3-inch screens, setting a new standard for dash design. The seats were comfortable, with a "Seat Kinetics" system to prevent discomfort on long drives. However, the steering wheel position obstructed the screen view, and the upgraded stereo caused unwanted vibrations.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, with features like heated and massaging front seats, premium leather, and a five-zone climate control system. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, and the second-row captain's chairs offered ample comfort. The third-row seating was surprisingly accommodating for adults, though accessing it required adjusting the power seats. The X7 provided 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded and 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down, though these figures were less than class leaders.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system, which was advanced yet initially daunting. The system included steering-wheel controls, driver-assistance tech, and gesture control. The dual 12.3-inch screens and HUD offered augmented reality options, though the voice control system was less effective than expected. Mercedes assured improvements in production models.

The 2021 BMW X7 came with Live Cockpit Professional and iDrive 7.0 infotainment, both using 12.3-inch displays. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro. Gesture control was inconsistent, but the "Hey BMW" voice recognition was excellent. The iDrive system was user-friendly, though it could be distracting while driving. The HUD was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE lacked testing data from NHTSA and IIHS but offered a comprehensive suite of autonomous safety systems. Features like Attention Assist and Seat Kinetics aimed to prevent fatigue. However, the adaptive cruise and lane-keep assist systems were less reliable at high speeds, leading to unpredictable behavior.

The 2021 BMW X7 included standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The X7's ADAS was smooth and trustworthy, though it occasionally struggled with lane maintenance and automated lane changes. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parking and a surround-view camera.