2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of practicality and opulence. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was designed to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity kept it in the lineup. The GLS appealed to affluent families with its three rows of seating and comfortable interior, serving as a sophisticated alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS's design was more refined than its predecessors, with softened angles and a sleek appearance. Inside, it boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric nature. The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63, each offering a range of luxurious features and options.

The 2021 BMW X7 was a formidable competitor in the luxury SUV segment, known for its superior interior quality and technological sophistication. It offered more prestige than the Infiniti QX80 or Lincoln Navigator and had a significant visual presence compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. The X7 was available in three versions: the X7 xDrive40i, X7 M50i, and the high-end Alpina BX7. The X7 xDrive40i test vehicle featured premium extended leather, a leather-wrapped dashboard, and a range of option packages, resulting in a luxurious and comfortable interior. The X7's styling was bold, with a massive grille that suited its large SUV stature. Inside, it shared design elements with the X5, offering high-quality materials and intuitive controls. The X7 was designed to provide a smooth and serene driving experience, making it a top choice for those seeking luxury and comfort.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options. The entry-level GLS 450 was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, delivering 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The AMG GLS 63, the performance model, boasted a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, generating an impressive 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a nine-speed AMG twin-clutch automatic transmission, providing exhilarating acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of just 4.1 seconds. The GLS 63 featured an adaptive air suspension system, offering adjustable ground clearance and precise cornering capabilities. Multiple drive modes allowed drivers to customize the driving experience, enhancing throttle response, transmission mapping, and suspension stiffness.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, producing 335 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive rear-biased all-wheel-drive system. The X7 featured BMW's eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which included a 48-volt starter/generator and a second battery. This system aimed to improve fuel economy and responsiveness, although the 2021 model's EPA ratings were slightly lower than the previous year. The X7 xDrive40i could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power for most driving situations. The SUV's self-leveling air suspension provided a smooth ride, but excessive body motions were noted during spirited driving. The Dynamic Handling Package, with features like Active Comfort Drive and Integral Active Steering, enhanced the X7's maneuverability and stability, making it a pleasure to drive on highways and canyon roads.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered spacious seating for up to seven passengers, with optional second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to six. The first and second rows provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for full-size adults, a rarity in three-row SUVs. The GLS excelled in cargo space, offering 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded. With both the second and third rows folded, the GLS provided 87.4 cubic feet of cargo space. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a center console with butterfly doors.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was a testament to luxury, featuring heated and ventilated front seats, a five-zone climate control system, and premium Merino leather upholstery. The front seats offered exceptional comfort, while the second-row captain's chairs provided a similar level of luxury. The third-row seats were surprisingly accommodating for adults, although accessing them required some seat adjustments. The X7's cargo space was slightly less than the GLS, with 48.6 cubic feet available with the third row folded and 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down. The power clamshell tailgate made loading and unloading cargo convenient.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. The MBUX system's voice control feature allowed for natural language commands, enhancing convenience. The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. While there was a learning curve, the system offered a comprehensive and user-friendly experience.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured the Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation paired with the iDrive 7.0 infotainment system. The 12.3-inch touchscreen offered a range of features, including Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and enhanced SiriusXM 360L. The system also provided real-time traffic data, parking information, and BMW Remote Services. The natural voice-recognition system and gesture control added to the user experience, although the latter could be inconsistent. The head-up display was a useful feature, although visibility was limited when wearing polarized sunglasses.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional safety technologies included lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a following-distance indicator. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 BMW X7 was equipped with a range of standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and the Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package included evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and lane-control assist. The X7's advanced driving assistance systems were praised for their accuracy and smooth operation, although some specific experiences highlighted areas for improvement. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera.