X7 vs GLS
If you’re shopping for a car in the full-size luxury suv class, the X7 and the GLS are likely both on your shortlist. The data points to two closely matched options rather than a clear favorite.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance X7 wins
- Fuel Economy & Range X7 wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance2.1
- Fuel Economy & Range10.0
- Off-road & Towing3.3
- Engine & Performance1.3
- Fuel Economy & Range8.7
- Off-road & Towing4.4
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The X7 has 29 lb-ft more torque
The GLS isn’t far behind at 369 lb-ft, but the X7’s 398 lb-ft still comes out ahead. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
-
The X7 has better city fuel economy
A narrow win for the X7. With 20 mpg to 19 mpg, it’s the kind of difference that adds up rather than stands out. Hybrids often shine in the city, and the X7 has the better rating here.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
X7 leads
The X7 takes engine & performance by a nose. On the X7, you get 29 lb-ft more torque. The X7’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing. Weighing only engine & performance, the X7 comes out ahead.
Torque
X7: 398 lb-ft GLS: 369 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Fuel Economy & Range
X7 leads
The GLS comes close on fuel economy & range, but the X7 does just enough to lead. On its side, the X7 has better city fuel economy. City fuel economy matters most if your driving is mostly short trips, traffic and stop-and-go commutes. The fuel economy & range verdict goes to the X7.
Fuel economy (city)
X7: 20 mpg GLS: 19 mpg In town, driving style has a big effect, but the X7 starts from a better baseline.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
The space & practicality section is even. Any gaps here are within the range you’d never notice. The takeaway: space & practicality is not where these two differ.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
The differences on off-road & towing are small enough to ignore in daily use. This section won’t settle the choice, so weigh the other areas more heavily.
Safety & Tech
In the safety & tech section, the key entries are names rather than numbers, so compare what the X7 and the GLS list in the table below.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | X7 | GLS |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas (48V mild hybrid) | Gas (48V mild hybrid) |
| Engine | 3.0L turbo I6 | 3.0L turbo I6 |
| Total system output | 375 hp | 375 hp |
| Torque | 398 lb-ft (winner) | 369 lb-ft Least torque in class |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD (xDrive) | AWD (4MATIC) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | X7 | GLS |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 22 mpg Most efficient in class | 21 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | 20 mpg (winner) Best city economy | 19 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | X7 | GLS |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 7 seats | 7 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | X7 | GLS |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 7,500 lb Lowest towing capacity | 7,700 lb |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | X7 | GLS |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the X7 if…
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (398 lb-ft vs 369 lb-ft of torque)
- you want better city fuel economy (20 mpg vs 19 mpg)
- you’re comfortable with how BMW does things
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the X7 or the GLS?
On the specs compared here, the X7 makes more sense for most buyers; the GLS doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Two companies, two answers to the same question. That’s how I see the X7 from BMW and the GLS from Mercedes-Benz. What I like most about the X7 here is 29 lb-ft more torque. The X7 also scores with better city fuel economy.
Fit matters more than scores here. The X7 suits buyers focused on engine & performance; the GLS suits those focused on the things a spec sheet can’t capture.
My pick: the X7.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.