2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in the luxury SUV segment, often seen navigating the bustling streets of metropolitan Los Angeles. It was known for its superior interior quality, surpassing that of the Cadillac Escalade, and offered more prestige than the Infiniti QX80 or Lincoln Navigator. The X7 boasted advanced technological features that outshone the Lexus LX 570 and had a commanding visual presence that rivaled the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. Despite its impressive attributes, the X7's appeal was subjective, as personal preference played a significant role in this competitive segment.

The X7's design was characterized by its massive grille, a trendsetter for BMW's styling direction. While this design choice was polarizing, it suited the large SUV's proportions. Inside, the X7 shared many elements with the X5, offering a high-tech design, premium materials, and mostly intuitive controls. The SUV's styling was both traditional and glamorous, securing its position at the top of BMW's SUV lineup.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, affectionately known as the G-Wagen, was a vehicle with a storied history, having first appeared in 1979. By 2021, it had evolved into a luxury icon, available in two models: the G550 and the AMG G63. The G-Class was renowned for its boxy, rugged design, a nod to its military origins, and was hand-built in Graz, Austria. Its exterior was a classic two-box design, with straight lines and a retro appeal that set it apart from other Mercedes-Benz models.

Inside, the G-Class offered a tasteful design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and a matching virtual instrument panel. The cabin was customizable, allowing drivers to coordinate colors with ambient lighting to create a personalized atmosphere. Despite its luxurious appointments, the G-Class retained its rugged capabilities, making it a favorite among celebrities and off-road enthusiasts alike.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The X7 featured eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which included a 48-volt starter/generator and battery, enhancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Despite these advancements, the X7's fuel economy ratings were slightly lower than the previous year, with 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.

The X7's performance was characterized by smooth acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. However, its handling was somewhat compromised by its size and weight, with noticeable body motions during spirited driving. The Dynamic Handling Package, including M Sport brakes and Active Comfort Drive, improved ride quality and maneuverability. The X7's nearly 5,400-pound curb weight was evident on highways, but it maintained effortless speed and fluidity.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, producing 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent 4WD, with Dynamic Select driving programs for various terrains. The G550 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, impressive for its 5,551-pound curb weight. The SUV's suspension system, with double-wishbone independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle, provided a supple ride with minimal body roll.

The G-Class offered adjustable suspension and damping, as well as three locking differentials for off-road capability. The AMG G63 variant took performance to another level, with 577 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Despite its power, the G-Class had modest fuel economy ratings, with 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for the G550.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was a testament to luxury, featuring heated and ventilated seats, premium Merino leather upholstery, and a five-zone climate control system. Front-seat comfort was exceptional, with heated armrests and steering wheel as standard. The second-row captain's chairs offered ample comfort, though access could be challenging due to long rear doors. The third-row seat was surprisingly accommodating for adults, with power-adjustable seats facilitating access.

Cargo space in the X7 was limited behind the third row, but folding the seats expanded capacity to 48.6 cubic feet, and further to 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down. These figures were below class leaders, but the X7's focus was on passenger comfort and luxury.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 combined luxury with practicality, offering 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. The G550 had a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and could tow up to 7,700 pounds. The front cabin was spacious, with ample storage and a tall roofline providing excellent headroom.

The G550's second row accommodated three adults comfortably, with a 60/40 split-folding seatback. While heated seats were standard, ventilated seats required additional packages. The G-Class's exterior spare tire was both a styling cue and a practical feature.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and an iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro with real-time traffic and parking information. Wireless smartphone charging and a natural voice-recognition system were also included, though gesture control was inconsistent.

The iDrive system was user-friendly for those familiar with modern technology, but could be distracting while driving. A head-up display was available, though visibility was limited with polarized sunglasses.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 boasted twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. These screens were customizable, allowing drivers to coordinate with ambient lighting for a personalized experience. The Burmester Surround Sound system enhanced the cabin's atmosphere.

The G550's infotainment system ran the latest COMAND software, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for intuitive operation. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, and the G550 included USB and 12-volt outlets, though wireless charging was absent. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes me connect services.

The 2021 BMW X7 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package included Active Driving Assistant Pro, which offered evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and lane-control assist. The system was generally effective, though it occasionally struggled with lane maintenance and automated lane changes.

The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parallel parking assist, a surround-view camera, and a drive recorder system, enhancing the X7's safety capabilities.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 featured a robust array of standard safety systems, including a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, attention assist, active lane-keeping assist, and active brake assist. The active lane-keeping assist was somewhat intrusive, requiring drivers to understand its operation fully.

The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but its size and construction provided inherent safety advantages in certain crash scenarios.