2021 BMW X7 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 BMW X7 was a standout in the luxury SUV segment, often seen navigating the bustling streets of Los Angeles. It boasted superior interior quality compared to the Cadillac Escalade, and its prestige surpassed that of the Infiniti QX80 and Lincoln Navigator. The X7 also offered more technological sophistication than the Lexus LX 570 and had a significant visual presence, especially when compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. Available in three versions, the X7 xDrive40i started at $74,900, the X7 M50i at $99,800, and the Alpina BX7 at $141,300. The test vehicle, an X7 xDrive40i, was equipped with 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium leather, and a host of options, bringing its price to $91,745. Its styling, characterized by a massive grille, was both bold and appropriate for its size, while the interior shared high-quality materials and technology with the X5, offering a luxurious and tech-savvy driving experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, particularly the AMG GLE 53 variant, presented a sporty and modern aesthetic. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork gave it a sleek appearance, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker. With a base price of $77,800, the test vehicle's price exceeded $100,000 due to numerous options. Inside, the GLE Coupe was as luxurious as expected, featuring high-end materials, dual-screen instrumentation, and a high-tech infotainment system. The cabin was adorned with Nappa leather, a Dinamica suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim, creating a sophisticated environment. Despite its complexity, the interior design was user-friendly, and ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, producing 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. It featured BMW's eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which included a 48-volt starter/generator and battery, enhancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Despite the technology, the X7's EPA ratings were slightly lower than the previous year, with 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The SUV accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and its driving dynamics were smooth and serene, thanks to the Dynamic Handling Package and Active Comfort Drive system. However, the X7's weight and size were noticeable on winding roads, and its self-leveling air suspension struggled with excessive body motions.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. It featured EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, and a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission. The AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system and AMG Dynamic Select driving modes enhanced its performance capabilities. The GLE Coupe's speed-sensitive steering and AMG Active Ride Control suspension provided a nimble and composed driving experience in urban and suburban settings. In Sport+ mode, the SUV demonstrated impressive acceleration and handling on challenging roads, although its size and weight were noticeable. The performance exhaust system added to the driving excitement, but could be toned down for a quieter ride.

The 2021 BMW X7 offered a luxurious interior with features like the Cold Weather Package, Luxury Seating Package, and premium Merino leather upholstery. Front-seat comfort was exceptional, with heated seats, armrests, and steering wheel as standard. The second-row captain's chairs were also comfortable, though access could be challenging due to long rear doors. The third-row seat was surprisingly accommodating for adults, and the five-zone climate control system ensured comfort for all passengers. Cargo space was limited behind the third row, but folding the seats expanded it to 48.6 cubic feet, with a maximum of 90.4 cubic feet.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe, while technically seating five, was more comfortable for four passengers. The sport-bolstered front seats offered numerous adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Rear-seat legroom was ample, and the cargo hold provided 27.5 cubic feet of space, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The GLE Coupe featured comfort upgrades like a four-zone climate control system and an Air Balance fragrance system, enhancing the luxurious feel of the cabin.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured the Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both with 12.3-inch displays. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro with real-time traffic and parking information. Wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control were also available, though the latter was inconsistent. The head-up display was useful, but difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester surround-sound audio system. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video navigation, and an upgraded Burmester 3D audio system.

The 2021 BMW X7 came standard with numerous safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package included evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and lane-control assist, among others. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera. The X7's safety systems were generally impressive, though some lane-maintenance features were occasionally reactive.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe was equipped with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE's safety systems were refined and accurate, with features like Active Emergency Stop Assist providing additional security. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings.