2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 BMW X7

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS presented a more understated and refined appearance compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes confidently avoided the ostentatious grilles seen on the BMW X7 and Lexus LX, opting for a more subtle design in the base GLS 450 model. However, for those seeking more visual drama, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered enhanced styling with features like flared wheel arches, a muscular grille, and prominent exhaust tips. The Maybach model further distinguished itself with chrome accents and luxurious touches such as reclining rear seats and a traditional hood ornament. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, though basic by GLS standards, still exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, providing a high-quality feel without being overly fragile.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW X7 underwent a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design inspired by the BMW 7 Series sedan. The front end featured LED accent lights and a recessed headlight design, which, while aiming for a striking appearance, resulted in a somewhat polarizing look. The sides and rear of the X7 remained largely unchanged, offering two design themes: the chrome-trimmed Design Pure Excellence and the dark-finished M Sport. Inside, the X7's dashboard received a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The interior materials were of premium quality, with leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. While the X7's interior revisions added a modern and elegant touch, the overall design was more subjective, with some finding it less cohesive than its predecessor.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes’ EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup delivered 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an electric motor providing an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's engine offered ample power, and the electric assist was seamlessly integrated. The GLS lineup also included models with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing up to 603 hp in the AMG GLS 63. All GLS models featured standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, with a performance-tuned drivetrain for the AMG version. Despite its power, the GLS 450's suspension left room for improvement, as it exhibited poor body control and excessive motion over bumps. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup began with the base xDrive40i model, featuring a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The X7's V8 engine provided potent acceleration, while the base six-cylinder was adequate for most drivers. The X7's handling was impressive for its size, with well-managed body roll and a composed ride. While the ride was slightly firmer compared to some luxury SUVs, it maintained a good balance of performance and comfort, appealing to drivers seeking an engaging experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration, featuring a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version replaced the bench with captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward and fold for third-row access, providing excellent legroom. The GLS boasted 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The GLS excelled in passenger comfort and cargo versatility, although the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2023 BMW X7 provided ample space, with the second-row seats accommodating taller passengers and a large sunroof enhancing the airy feel. Accessing the third row required some patience, but it offered adequate head- and legroom for average-sized adults. The X7 had 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 90.4 cubic feet with all seats folded. The split tailgate and suspension-lowering feature facilitated loading and unloading. The X7's interior offered generous storage for personal items, with a large center console bin and well-sized cupholders.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, allowing for hands-free operation. However, the touchpad controller was cumbersome, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 BMW X7 came with the latest iDrive infotainment system, which, despite its intuitive layout, had some drawbacks. Many physical buttons were replaced by touchscreen controls, complicating basic functions like seat adjustments and cruise control settings. Voice commands were available but interrupted audio playback. While the system was effective for navigation and texting, it lacked the convenience of physical buttons for frequently used features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The highway driving assist feature was particularly effective in reducing driver fatigue. Crash-test ratings were not available, but the X7's safety features performed reliably.